Avoid These Common Mistakes When Washing Your Hair

Washing our hair is a ritual that we learn early on but it really is not as straightforward as it seems. Even small mistakes during the process can lead to significant consequences like frizzy, oily, dull hair and in some cases even hair loss, especially when you consider factors such as the types of shampoos, water temperature, and washing frequency.

With so many products on the market it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about the right approach to washing your hair. But don't worry! In this blog article, we'll discuss the most common hair-washing mistakes according to professional hairstylists and how to correct them for healthy, clean and shiny hair.

We take the guesswork out of finding the best products. Each product was individually selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to try out for ourselves and some we combed through thousands of reviews to find, but all opinions in this article are our own.

P.S. LindsaysReviews may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something at no extra cost to you (that's how we stay in business and keep bringing you the best finds to save you time).

Here are 7 common mistakes people make washing hair that causes it to be overly oily:

Over-washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, making your scalp produce more oil to compensate. Try washing your hair every other day or every few days instead and use a dry shampoo in between washes.

Using hot water: Hot water can also dry out your scalp, causing it to produce more oil. Use lukewarm water instead.

Using the wrong shampoo: Using a shampoo that's too harsh for your hair type or scalp can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to increased oil production. Choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that's appropriate for your hair type.

Not rinsing thoroughly: Leaving shampoo or conditioner residue in your hair can also contribute to oily hair. Take the time to rinse thoroughly and make sure there is no leftover residue.

Using the same shampoo year-round: Using the same shampoo year-round can be a mistake because our hair's needs change with the seasons. For example, in the winter, colder temperatures and dry indoor heating can cause our scalps to become dry and itchy, while in the summer, higher humidity can cause our scalps to produce more oil, leaving your hair greasy and flat. Using the same shampoo that worked well for us during one season may not be suitable for another season.

Using too much product: Using too much hair product, such as styling gel or mousse, can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Use only the necessary amount of product and avoid applying it directly to the roots, and try using a clarifying shampoo every other week to remove product build up.

Touching your hair too much: Touching your hair too frequently can transfer oils from your hands to your scalp, causing it to produce more oil. Try to avoid touching your hair throughout the day.

Now that we know what not to do, what is the right way to wash?

We created a "stylist approved" step-by-step tutorial for washing and conditioning your hair.

Begin by thoroughly wetting your hair with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water as it can strip your hair of natural oils.
Apply shampoo to your scalp, not the ends of your hair. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips in circular motions for a few minutes.
Rinse your hair thoroughly until you no longer see any suds. Make sure to rinse your scalp well to avoid product buildup.
Apply conditioner to the ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp. Leave on for a few minutes before rinsing off thoroughly.
Once you have rinsed your hair, gently squeeze out excess water with a towel. Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel as it can cause breakage and frizz.
Comb through your hair with a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles.
Let your hair air dry or use a hair dryer on a low setting.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your hair is clean, conditioned, and healthy-looking. Remember to choose shampoos and conditioners that are suitable for your hair type and scalp condition, and avoid over-washing or using hot water. Happy washing!