9 Tips for Washing Hair: According to Experts

As simple as it may seem to wash your hair, the wrong routine can leave your hair dry, dull, or prone to breakage. The good news? We’ve gathered the best tips for washing hair to help promote healthy growth.

We’ll share practical advice for what to do before, during, and after washing your hair. You’ll also learn different techniques tailored to various hair types and goals.

1. Brush Hair Your Before

Melissa Souza, Hairstylist and Owner at Styled x Melissa, recommends brushing your hair before washing it because it helps with detangling, prevents breakage, and distributes natural oils.

Different types of hairbrushes offer various benefits:

• Hair detangler brush – Best for knots and gentle detangling
• Cushion brush – Gentle on the scalp and great for daily use
• Natural bristle brush – Distributes oils, smooths, and adds shine
• Nylon bristle brush – Detangles thick or coarse hair
• Paddle brush – Works well for straightening and long hair

2. Apply Hair Oil (optional)

Souza suggests using a lightweight oil once or twice a week to help maintain hair health, especially if you have dry, curly, or color-treated hair. Hair oiling can hydrate, reduce frizz, prevent breakage, and make your hair easier to style. It can also stimulate hair growth.

Our favorite oil is Oakwell Cosmetics Hops-Infused Hair Oil. It’s made with a nourishing blend of hops, cedarwood, tea tree, and rosemary essential oils.

3. Wet Hair Thoroughly

Souza recommends saturating your hair with warm water before using shampoo to help it spread evenly. Make sure every strand is wet, especially if you have thick or curly hair, to loosen dirt and product buildup before cleansing. Skipping this step can make shampoo less effective.

4. Apply Shampoo

Apply shampoo to your scalp, not the ends, says Souza. Work it into the roots with gentle pressure. The lather will naturally cleanse your mid-lengths and ends as you rinse. Using too much shampoo can dry your hair.

A quarter-sized amount of shampoo is usually enough. If you have very long or thick hair, you may need to use more. 

5. Massage the Scalp

Souza suggests using your fingertips or a scalp brush in gentle, circular motions while the shampoo is in your hair. Massaging the scalp stimulates circulation, loosens buildup, and supports scalp health. It also feels relaxing — an easy way to work in a moment of self-care.

6. Rinse & Repeat (optional)

A double cleanse may be necessary to thoroughly clean your hair if you frequently use styling products or wash your hair less often. For dry hair, a single wash is usually enough, says Souza. It’s best to assess your hair’s needs and adjust accordingly.

7. Use Conditioner & Comb Through

Dr. Viktoryia Kazlosukaya, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in hair loss at Dermatology Circle, says that conditioner is essential for most people. It softens, detangles, and protects hair from damage. Apply it mid-lengths to ends, skipping the scalp to avoid making your roots greasy. 

Souza also recommends using a wide-tooth comb to spread conditioner evenly and reduce tangles.

We love Oakwell Cosmetics Moisturizing Conditioner for dry and color-treated hair and Strengthening Conditioner for all hair types.

8. Rinse Hair With Cool Water

Souza recommends rinsing your hair with cool water after shampooing and conditioning. This helps smooth the hair cuticle and lock in shine, leaving your hair looking healthier and feeling refreshed.

9. Gently Dry Hair

Dr. Kazlouskaya recommends drying your hair gently with a towel or even a cotton T-shirt. Avoid rough drying and wrapping hair tightly, which can cause damage. A microfiber towel is a good option for protecting thin or brittle hair.

Contrary to popular belief, air drying isn’t always best. In humid climates, damp hair can weaken the shaft, making a gentle blow dry the healthier choice. Avoid going to bed or outside with wet hair, and always use a leave-in conditioner or heat protectant when blow drying.

Tips for Washing Hair: FAQs

Make the most of your hair washing routine with answers to common questions below.

What is the correct way to wash your hair?

The best way to wash your hair is to brush before washing, wet thoroughly, apply shampoo to the scalp, and massage gently. Follow with conditioner on mid-lengths to ends and rinse with cool water.

How to tell if you washed your hair properly?

If your hair is properly washed, your scalp should feel clean but not tight or dry. Your hair should feel light, soft, and easy to manage.

How long should you leave shampoo in your hair?

You should only leave shampoo in your hair for a minute or two, long enough to effectively massage it in and cleanse your hair. Then, rinse thoroughly. 

What happens if you leave shampoo in your hair for 30 minutes?

Leaving shampoo in your hair for 30 minutes could dry out and irritate the scalp. It’s best not to leave shampoo in for more than a few minutes. 

How often should I wash my hair?

Dr. Kazlouskaya recommends washing your hair anywhere from once a week to once a day, depending on your hair and scalp type. Oily scalps may need daily washing, but dry or brittle hair may only need weekly washing. Caucasian hair usually does best with one to two washes per week, while Afro-textured hair often does best weekly or biweekly.

Is it good to let hair get oily before washing?

You shouldn’t let your hair get oily before washing, says Dr. Kazlouskaya. Excess oil promotes yeast growth, which can cause inflammation, dandruff, and seborrheic dermatitis. Too much oil may also contribute to hair thinning and loss.

Tips for Washing Hair: Conclusion

The right routine keeps hair healthier, stronger, and easier to manage. By practicing these expert-approved hair-washing tips, you’ll protect your hair and support a healthy scalp.