The Truth About Shampoo and How to do it Properly

The Truth About Shampoo

If you've been skipping shampoo because you heard it dries out curls, buckle up, we have a few things to chat about.

I hear it all the time from my guests at the salon: "Shampoo dries out my curls" or "I've heard shampoo is bad for my hair, so I barely use it."

But here's the truth: shampoo is an essential part of your curl care routine. Without it, your curls cannot thrive.

Why Your Curls Need Shampoo

Think about it this way: would you run a 5K, come home, and just put on lotion without taking a shower? Probably not.

Think of the time between wash days as that 5K. You're exposed to different elements- pollution, sweat, styling products. All of that builds up on your hair and scalp.

So does it make sense to just go in with conditioner, or should you cleanse everything from your hair first with shampoo?

To give your curls the ability to accept water and product more easily, we first need to remove buildup through proper shampooing.

Not All Shampoos Are Created Equal

Here's where things get tricky: using the wrong shampoo absolutely can dry out your curls.

Some shampoos are more cleansing and less hydrating. Others are more hydrating and less cleansing. Many fall somewhere in between, or are designed to target specific concerns.

Your "daily" shampoo—the regular shampoo you use each wash day—should be both cleansing and hydrating.

If you're using a clarifying shampoo as your go-to, that's likely the cause of your dryness. Clarifying shampoos are designed for more intense cleansing sessions and should only be used 1-2 times a month, not every wash day.

Proper Shampoo Technique Matters

Did you know that improper shampoo technique can actually make the detangling process harder?

When shampooing, we want to be organized and intentional. Here's how:

1. Make sure your hair is very wet first- Wet hair allows the shampoo to spread evenly and cleanses more effectively.

2. Emulsify your shampoo in your hands first- Create a lather in your palms before applying it to your scalp. This distributes the product better and prevents concentrated spots.

3. Apply to your scalp and stretch and smooth down your curls- This keeps your curls from tangling while you cleanse. Scrunching while shampooing creates tangles that make detangling harder later.

5. Scrub your scalp thoroughly while rinsing- Make sure to remove all of the shampoo from your scalp. Leftover product can cause buildup and irritation and also shorten the longevity of your set.

The Bottom Line

Shampoo isn't the enemy, it's actually essential for healthy, thriving curls.

The key is choosing the right shampoo for your curl needs and using proper technique. When you do both, you'll notice your curls feel cleaner, hydrated, and more defined.

If you're not sure which shampoo is right for you or want to dial in your wash day technique, that's exactly what we work on together during your appointment.

Your curls deserve the best care, and it starts with the basics.

Ready to simplify your routine and fall in love with your curls?

Reserve your appointment and let's create a wash day routine that actually works for you.