A trip to the hair salon often leaves you with a fresh, clean feeling. But have you ever wondered why your hair feels so much cleaner and softer after a professional wash and blow-dry?
The secret lies in the double cleanse.
Most hair salons follow a simple routine of shampooing twice and conditioning once.
During the first shampoo, the focus is on removing excess oil, dirt, and any residual product build-up from gels, hair sprays, or styling products. This is why you might notice less lather during this initial wash as the shampoo is doing a “pre-clean” and dissolving surface impurities.
The second shampoo, on the other hand, is when the real deep cleansing happens. This time, you’ll see richer and finer foam as the shampoo penetrates deeper and lifts away any remaining dirt or grease. This step also helps hair absorb the nourishing ingredients in the shampoo, resulting in softer and shinier hair after rinsing.
Finally, the conditioner is applied to add moisture, lock in nutrients, and enhance the hair’s natural smoothness.
Another crucial step in the salon ritual is the scalp massage. Using their fingertips, stylists gently stimulate blood circulation while dislodging trapped oil and dirt from the pores. This explains why hair not only feels cleaner after a salon wash but also feels lighter and healthier, with less dryness and damage.
An expert-approved hair washing technique for healthy, salon-like tresses.
Double Cleansing Isn’t for Everyone
Whether you should shampoo once or twice depends on various factors, including your hair type, texture, style, and daily hair care routine.
1. Hair Thickness and Oiliness
For those with long, thick, or oily hair, a single shampoo may not be sufficient to thoroughly cleanse the scalp and hair. In this case, a second shampoo can help ensure that all excess oil, dirt, and product residue are removed, leaving the hair feeling lighter and fuller.
On the other hand, individuals with thin or dry hair may find that a single shampoo is enough. Over-shampooing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, scalp sensitivity, and even breakage.
Those with thick hair may benefit from a double cleanse to thoroughly remove excess oil and dirt.
2. Hair Texture: Straight vs. Curly
Straight hair tends to get greasy faster as oil travels down the hair shaft more easily. To keep straight hair clean and lightweight, a double cleanse can be beneficial: the first wash removes excess oil and dirt, while the second provides a deeper clean for added volume and bounce. Opt for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and focus on a gentle massage rather than creating a lot of lather.
Curly hair, due to its spiral structure, doesn’t allow oil to travel down the hair shaft as easily, resulting in drier hair. Most of the time, a single wash with a moisturizing or curl-specific shampoo is sufficient. However, if it’s been several days since the last wash or you’ve used styling products like gel, mousse, or hairspray, a second shampoo can help eliminate any product buildup. During the wash, gently massage the scalp and avoid vigorous rubbing; apply conditioner from the mid-lengths to the ends, avoiding the roots.
Individuals with straight hair that tends to get greasy faster may benefit from a double cleanse.
3. Hair Care Routine and Products
If you regularly use styling products like gels, hair sprays, or mousses, a double cleanse is recommended. The first shampoo removes surface dirt and product buildup, while the second wash ensures that all chemical residues are eliminated.
Those who exercise frequently and tend to accumulate sweat and dirt in their hair may also benefit from shampooing twice to ensure a deeper clean.
For individuals using therapeutic shampoos (containing medication, anti-dandruff agents, etc.), it’s advisable to follow up with a second shampoo using a regular formula to thoroughly cleanse the hair and scalp.
Achieving Salon-Like Results at Home
With a few simple tweaks to your hair care routine, you can replicate the salon experience in the comfort of your own home.
1. Brush Your Hair Before Washing
Before wetting your hair, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle it. This not only reduces breakage during washing but also helps remove some surface dirt and grease.
2. Choose the Right Shampoo
Just like your skin, your scalp can be oily, dry, or sensitive. Don’t stick to just one shampoo; instead, choose a formula that addresses your specific hair and scalp needs for optimal cleansing and care.
3. Master the Right Washing Technique
Fully wet your hair, apply a suitable amount of shampoo to your scalp, and gently massage with your fingertips. Then, smooth the shampoo down the length of your hair in one direction to prevent tangles and breakage. Rinse thoroughly with cool water. If you have thick, oily hair or use a lot of styling products, consider a second shampoo for a deeper clean.
4. Pat Hair Dry with a Towel
Instead of twisting your hair to dry it, emulate the salon technique: gently wrap your hair in a soft towel and blot it to absorb excess moisture. This reduces damage, shortens drying time, and prevents frizz caused by heat.
5. Blow-Dry Hair in a Downward Direction
When blow-drying, direct the airflow downward, following the hair’s natural growth pattern. Use a round brush or your fingers to guide the hair, adding smoothness and shape. Avoid concentrating the heat on one spot for too long to minimize damage.
