BACK TO THE BASICS

I was 35 when I learned I was washing my hair wrong my entire life. If I had learned these tips earlier in life, I could have avoided tangles, damage, and my horribly dry, itchy scalp.

Stick with me and I’ll share ALL my tips

Before Monat, I couldn’t wear black. My scalp was so dry and flakey and itched all the time, plus I was greasy. This is why I first started using Monat because a friend told me it would help. Guess what…one week! One week and I had relief, which is a testament to technique but more importantly, ingredients. However, I still have to focus on scalp health and washing properly or my scalp gets bad again.

I go for quarterly scalp treatments with a stylist and she can tell the spots I miss washing properly because I get build-up flakes (thick hair problems) in those areas, and it really makes a huge difference when I do weekly exfoliation and oil treatments.

WHY DOES TECHNIQUE MATTER?

Applying proper hair washing techniques lets you ensure that you don’t damage your hair and follicles. It will also make sure you don’t harm the skin on your scalp.

Improper washing can lead to heavy feeling hair, less time between washes, appearance of more oil, and product build up that can look like dry scalp or dandruff.

HOW TO WASH

It may look like a lot, but it’s honestly not. Taking a few minutes to read these tips and implement the techniques will let you wash your hair less often and get even better results.

She’s my favorite energetic stylist taking you through how to wash your hair. 

1. SHAMPOO TWICE – this makes a huge difference. Focus on scalp not hair. The first shampoo should barely lather because it’s getting rid of all the build-up, sweat, and environmental factors. If it’s lathering a lot, you’re using too much. The second shampoo will lather much more and hair should ‘squeak’ because it’s getting your hair nice and clean.

2. RINSE WELL - Spend 1 to 2 minutes rinsing your hair to be sure no soap remains. One of the biggest mistakes people make is accidentally leaving shampoo in their hair, which leads to scalp buildup. If you have dry hair, you might want to try rinsing with cold water, because it helps hair stay stronger and healthier.

3. MASQUE – masques are like the serums in your face routine targeting specific hair concerns like moisture, damage repair, or hydration. Use them every 2-3 washes or alternate masques if you use them every wash. Leave on your hair the recommended time then rinse. Great time to shave your legs hehe.  

4. CONDITION – Do not skip conditioner! It flattens your hair cuticle, locking in moisture, increasing shine and preventing damage. You don’t need to put conditioner on your scalp — it might make things oily. Instead, apply the conditioner from the mid-shaft down to the ends of your hair. Let it sit the recommended time (found on bottle) to soften and smooth your hair, making it shinier once it’s dry.

5. RINSE WELL

10. POST SHOWER – this is just as important as your shower routine. This is when you want to apply rejuvabeads split end mender first (so it can fill in the gaps in your hair) (FREE with flexships in March). Then your leave-in conditioner, any styling products, and a heat protectant. If you need help with what order to apply your products, please ask.  Split end saver #hair #haircare #healthyhairwithjackie #damagedhair #splitends (youtube.com)

BONUS TIPS

1. HARD WATER – get a shower filter – hard water contains a buildup of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, that can leave a film on your hair. This film can make it difficult to effectively moisturize your hair. Over time, hard water can dry your hair out and leave it prone to breakage. In severe cases, it can even lead to hair loss if the hard water severely irritates your scalp or if you have a skin condition, such as eczema or psoriasis. And don’t forget to clean your shower head!

2. If your hair is THICK, or you have a hard time getting it ‘squeaky clean’ (I was shocked when I realized it should actually squeak on the second shampoo), separate your hair into 2 layers with a clip.

3. TANGLES - While you let your masque or conditioner soak in, you can use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair preventing additional damage to the cuticle.

4. SHINE - Giving your hair a final rinse with cold water can do wonders for your hair. It completely seals your hair cuticle, locks in moisture and nutrients, and gives your hair the ultimate glow. Brrrr

Now that you’re a quasi expert on how to properly wash your hair, go implement and let me know if you notice a difference.

Jackie