Shampoo: To Apply on the Hair or Scalp?
Shampoo is a cleansing agent for the scalp. It contains cleansing agents with mild detergents. For those with dandruff, specialized shampoos are particularly effective at cleansing the scalp.
Many individuals dispense shampoo into their hands, distribute it evenly through their hair, and then coil their hair, rubbing their scalp to create a cleansing lather. However, the correct method is to lather the shampoo in your hands and apply it directly to your scalp, massaging it to ensure a thorough cleanse. Afterward, gently smooth the shampoo down the length of your hair and rinse. This ensures a clean scalp and hair.
Applying shampoo to your hair first and then working up a lather on your scalp is incorrect. This can be detrimental to your hair, especially if you’re using a shampoo with strong detergents. Hair is easily cleaned, and direct contact with the cleansing agents can lead to dryness, frizz, and tangles. Meanwhile, this method fails to adequately cleanse the scalp.
Remember, shampoo belongs on the scalp to ensure a clean foundation. The lather that runs through your hair during rinsing is sufficient to clean your hair without causing harm.
Conditioner: To Apply on the Hair or Scalp?
Conversely, conditioner should only be applied to the length and ends of your hair, avoiding direct contact with the scalp. Conditioners are designed to soften and smooth the hair, and their slightly sticky consistency can lead to clogged pores and an oily scalp if applied directly to it. This is why some people experience greasy hair after using conditioner.
Apply conditioner only to the length of your hair, avoiding the scalp, to achieve beautiful hair without adverse effects on your scalp, such as greasiness and stickiness.
Many people make the mistake of applying shampoo to their hair like a conditioner and vice versa. Remember, shampoo goes on the scalp, and conditioner is for the hair length. This ensures a clean scalp and smooth, tangle-free hair.
Additionally, when your hair is wet, avoid brushing it to prevent breakage. Let it air dry, and then gently comb through it. Avoid vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel, as this can cause frizz and disrupt the smooth finish provided by the conditioner.
Lastly, refrain from using a hairdryer with excessive heat, as this can lead to hair dryness, moisture loss, and scalp dehydration.
5 Hair Care Habits That Seem Helpful But Actually Cause More Harm Than Good
Taking care of your hair is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about maintaining scalp health. Are you guilty of common mistakes such as over-shampooing or brushing too vigorously? Discover the five harmful misconceptions that could be causing your hair to shed more than usual, and learn how to effectively remedy the situation.