How to Get Beautiful Hair with Co-Washing

17 min read

Co-Washing

Co-washing has transformed how countless women approach their hair care routines, offering a gentler alternative to traditional shampooing that leaves hair softer, more hydrated, and noticeably healthier. This method involves using conditioner or specialized cleansing conditioners to wash your hair, skipping harsh sulfates that strip away natural oils. The technique works particularly well for those with dry, damaged, or textured hair who struggle with frizz and breakage from conventional washing methods.

Your hair produces natural oils that protect and nourish each strand, but regular shampoos often remove too much of this protective layer. Co-washing preserves these beneficial oils while still removing dirt and product buildup through gentle friction and mild cleansing agents found in conditioners. This balance between cleansing and moisturizing creates the perfect environment for hair to thrive, reducing breakage and improving manageability over time.

The following sections will guide you through everything from understanding the science behind this technique to troubleshooting common challenges. You’ll discover whether your hair type suits this method, learn the proper washing techniques, and find solutions for any issues that arise during your transition. Continue reading to transform your hair care routine and achieve the beautiful, healthy hair you’ve been seeking.

What Is Co-Washing and Why Your Hair Needs It

Co-washing represents a fundamental shift in hair care philosophy, replacing harsh detergents with conditioning agents that clean through gentle emulsification. Traditional shampoos contain sulfates and other strong surfactants that create rich lather but often leave hair feeling stripped and brittle. Cleansing conditioners and regular conditioners used for washing contain mild cleansing ingredients that lift away dirt and excess oil without disrupting your hair’s moisture balance.

Definition and science behind co-washing

The science behind this method centers on the principle that “like dissolves like” – the oils and emollients in conditioners attract and remove sebum and product residue without aggressive scrubbing action. Most conditioners contain cationic surfactants, which are positively charged molecules that bind to the negatively charged hair shaft. These ingredients simultaneously clean and condition, leaving a protective film that smooths the cuticle and reduces friction between strands.

Your scalp naturally regulates oil production based on how often oils are removed. Frequent shampooing triggers increased sebum production as your scalp tries to compensate for the constant stripping. This washing method helps break this cycle by maintaining a more consistent moisture level, eventually leading to more balanced oil production.

How it differs from traditional shampooing

Traditional shampooing focuses primarily on removing oils and buildup, often at the expense of hair health. The foaming action people associate with cleanliness actually indicates strong detergents at work, not necessarily better cleaning. Many women find their hair feels squeaky clean after shampooing but becomes tangled, frizzy, or unmanageable without immediate conditioning.

This gentler approach prioritizes hair health over that squeaky-clean feeling. You won’t get the same lather or sensation of stripped hair, which can feel strange initially. Instead, your hair maintains its natural texture and moisture throughout the washing process. The adjustment period requires patience as both your hair and expectations adapt to this different cleaning method.

The cleansing conditioner concept

Cleansing conditioners bridge the gap between regular conditioners and shampoos, formulated specifically for washing without traditional detergents. These products contain higher concentrations of mild surfactants than regular conditioners but far less than shampoos. They’re designed to provide optimal cleaning power while maintaining the moisturizing benefits that make this method so effective.

Some cleansing conditioners include ingredients like:

  • Cetyl alcohol: A fatty alcohol that provides slip and mild cleansing
  • Behentrimonium chloride: Conditions while helping remove buildup
  • Cocamidopropyl betaine: A gentle surfactant derived from coconut oil
  • Natural clays: Absorb excess oil without stripping moisture

Benefits for different hair types

While this technique gained popularity in the natural hair community, its benefits extend across various hair types and textures. Curly and coily hair particularly thrives with this method since these textures are naturally drier and more prone to frizz. The preserved moisture helps maintain curl pattern definition and reduces the need for heavy styling products.

Women with color-treated or chemically processed hair find this method helps maintain their investment longer. The gentle cleansing preserves color molecules and doesn’t strip away the lipids that keep processed hair healthy. Even those with fine hair can benefit by selecting lightweight formulas and adjusting frequency to prevent weighing down their strands.

When to choose this method

Certain signs indicate your hair might benefit from switching to this washing method. Persistent dryness despite using moisturizing products suggests your current routine removes too much natural oil. Increased breakage, especially when wet, often results from hair weakened by harsh cleansing. Frizz that appears immediately after washing, even with anti-frizz products, indicates your hair craves more moisture retention during the cleansing process.

Consider this approach if you wash your hair less than three times weekly, as the gentler cleansing works well for those who don’t need daily washing. Women who style their hair frequently with heat tools or chemical treatments often see dramatic improvements in hair health. The method also suits those living in dry climates where maintaining moisture poses constant challenges.

Is Co-Washing Right for Your Hair Type?

Understanding your specific hair characteristics helps determine whether this washing method will deliver the results you want. Every hair type can potentially benefit, but the approach varies significantly based on texture, density, porosity, and scalp condition. Taking time to assess your hair honestly prevents frustration and helps you modify the technique for optimal results.

Curly and coily hair benefits

Textured hair naturally lacks moisture due to its structure – the curves and coils prevent scalp oils from traveling down the hair shaft effectively. This inherent dryness makes curly and coily hair ideal candidates for conditioner washing. The method helps maintain the moisture these textures desperately need while preserving the natural curl pattern that harsh detergents can disrupt.

Women with type 3 and 4 hair often notice immediate improvements in curl definition and reduced frizz. The slip provided by conditioners makes detangling easier, reducing breakage during one of the most damaging parts of the hair care routine. Many find they can extend time between wash days since their hair stays moisturized longer, saving both time and money on products.

The protective film left by conditioners helps shield fragile curls from environmental damage. This barrier reduces moisture loss throughout the day and provides some protection against humidity-induced frizz. Over time, consistent use of this method can improve the overall health and appearance of textured hair dramatically.

Fine hair considerations

Fine hair presents unique challenges with this washing method, as the moisturizing ingredients can quickly overwhelm delicate strands. However, many women with fine hair successfully use this technique by selecting products specifically formulated for their hair type. Lightweight cleansing conditioners or conditioners labeled for fine hair prevent the heavy, greasy feeling that ruins volume.

Frequency adjustments make a significant difference for fine hair. While someone with thick, coily hair might wash with conditioner exclusively, fine-haired women often alternate between this method and gentle shampoo. This rotation provides the moisture benefits without allowing buildup that weighs down hair. Some find success using this technique only on their lengths while using diluted shampoo on the scalp.

Product application technique matters more for fine hair than other types. Concentrating the conditioner on the scalp and massaging thoroughly ensures proper cleansing without overloading the lengths with product. Using less product than you might think necessary and adding water to create slip works better than applying large amounts of conditioner.

Oily scalp adjustments

An oily scalp doesn’t automatically disqualify you from trying this washing method, though it requires strategic modifications. The transition period might feel uncomfortable as your scalp adjusts its oil production, but many women with oily scalps eventually find their oil production normalizes. Starting gradually by replacing one traditional wash per week helps ease the transition.

Focus cleansing efforts on the scalp rather than the lengths when dealing with excess oil. Spend extra time massaging the scalp with your fingertips to help emulsify and remove sebum. Some women with oily scalps benefit from doing a double cleanse – two rounds of conditioner washing – to ensure thorough cleaning without resorting to shampoo.

Adding clarifying treatments to your routine becomes essential with an oily scalp. Weekly or biweekly use of a clarifying shampoo or scalp scrub prevents buildup while maintaining the benefits of gentle cleansing between treatments. Apple cider vinegar rinses offer a natural alternative for removing excess oil without harsh detergents.

Color-treated hair advantages

Chemical processing weakens hair structure, making it more susceptible to damage from harsh cleansing. This washing method offers color-treated hair the gentle care it needs while helping preserve expensive color treatments. The absence of sulfates means color molecules stay locked in the hair shaft longer, extending time between salon visits.

Highlighted or bleached hair particularly benefits from the constant conditioning this method provides. These processes create porosity issues that make hair prone to dryness and breakage. The regular infusion of moisture from conditioner washing helps fill in damaged areas of the cuticle, improving both appearance and manageability.

Professional colorists increasingly recommend this technique to clients seeking to maintain vibrant colors. Fashion colors like pastels and vivids fade quickly with traditional washing, but the gentle nature of conditioner cleansing helps these shades last weeks longer. The cost savings on color maintenance alone makes this method worthwhile for many women.

Signs your hair needs this method

Your hair sends clear signals when it needs a gentler approach to cleansing. Persistent tangles that appear immediately after washing suggest your current routine creates too much friction between strands. Hair that feels rough or straw-like despite regular conditioning treatments indicates the cleansing step strips away too much moisture for conditioners to replace effectively.

Static electricity and flyaways that plague you year-round, not just in winter, point to chronic dehydration in your hair. Split ends that appear quickly after trims suggest your hair lacks the moisture needed to maintain integrity. If you find yourself using increasing amounts of leave-in products to achieve manageable hair, your washing routine might be the real culprit.

Scalp irritation, itching, or flaking can indicate sensitivity to harsh detergents rather than underlying scalp conditions. Many women discover what they thought was dandruff actually resulted from an irritated, over-cleansed scalp. Switching to this gentler method often resolves these issues without special treatment products.

How to Co-Wash Your Hair the Right Way

Proper technique makes the difference between success and disappointment with this washing method. Many women give up too quickly because they don’t understand the mechanical action required for effective cleansing without suds. Learning the right movements, water temperature, and product application transforms this method from frustrating to revolutionary for your hair care routine.

Choosing the right products

Product selection can overwhelm newcomers to this technique, with options ranging from regular drugstore conditioners to specialized cleansing conditioners. Starting with a silicone-free conditioner you already own lets you test the method without investment. Silicones can build up over time without sulfates to remove them, so avoiding them initially prevents problems.

Look for conditioners with “slip” – the ability to help your fingers glide through hair easily. Ingredients like cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, and behentrimonium chloride provide this quality while offering mild cleansing properties. Natural ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, and plant oils add moisture without heaviness when used in proper proportions.

Cleansing conditioners designed specifically for washing contain additional mild surfactants that improve cleaning power. These products cost more than regular conditioners but often work better for those with active lifestyles or product-heavy styling routines. Reading ingredient lists helps you understand what you’re putting on your hair and identify patterns in products that work well for you.

Step-by-step washing technique

Begin by thoroughly saturating your hair with warm water for at least a minute. This initial rinse removes surface dirt and helps the conditioner spread more easily. The water temperature should feel comfortable but not hot enough to strip natural oils or cause scalp irritation.

Apply a generous amount of conditioner directly to your scalp, sectioning hair if necessary to ensure complete coverage. The amount needed surprises many people – often two to three times what you’d use for traditional conditioning. Focus on the scalp first, as this is where most oil and dirt accumulate.

Massage your scalp with your fingertips using firm, circular motions for three to five minutes. This mechanical action provides the cleaning power in absence of detergents. The massage loosens dirt, dead skin cells, and product buildup while stimulating blood flow to the scalp. Don’t rush this step – the massage duration directly impacts how clean your hair feels afterward.

Water temperature and massage methods

Water temperature plays a crucial role in effective cleansing with this method. Warm water helps open the hair cuticle slightly, allowing the conditioner to penetrate and remove buildup more effectively. However, water that’s too hot can stimulate excess oil production and cause frizz by raising the cuticle too much.

Your massage technique should feel firm but comfortable, never painful or aggressive. Use the pads of your fingers rather than nails to avoid scratching the scalp. Work in sections, spending about 30 seconds on each area of your scalp. Pay special attention to areas where you typically experience oiliness or buildup, such as the crown and hairline.

Some women find tools helpful for achieving thorough cleansing. Silicone scalp massagers or shampoo brushes can increase the effectiveness of your massage while reducing hand fatigue. These tools work particularly well for those with thick hair or mobility issues that make extended massage difficult.

Rinsing thoroughly

Inadequate rinsing causes most problems people experience with this washing method. The rinse phase should last as long as, if not longer than, the application and massage phases combined. Cool or lukewarm water works best for rinsing, as it helps seal the cuticle and lock in moisture.

Lift sections of hair away from your scalp while rinsing to ensure water reaches every area. The water should run completely clear with no slippery feeling remaining on your hair or scalp. This thorough rinsing might take five minutes or more, especially for those with thick or long hair.

Consider your water type when evaluating rinse effectiveness. Hard water can interfere with complete product removal, leaving hair feeling coated or heavy. Installing a shower filter or doing a final rinse with distilled water can improve results significantly in areas with challenging water conditions.

Common mistakes to avoid

Insufficient massage time ranks as the top mistake newcomers make. The physical action of massaging replaces the cleaning power of detergents, so cutting this short leaves hair inadequately cleansed. Set a timer initially to ensure you’re massaging long enough for effective cleaning.

Using too little product might seem economical but prevents proper cleansing and conditioning. Your hair should feel completely coated and slippery during the massage phase. Starting with more product and adjusting downward works better than struggling with insufficient amounts.

Here are critical mistakes that sabotage results:

  • Expecting immediate results: Your hair and scalp need time to adjust to the new routine
  • Mixing with sulfate shampoos: Regular sulfates can strip away the benefits of gentle cleansing
  • Ignoring ingredient lists: Hidden sulfates or heavy silicones can cause problems
  • Skipping clarifying treatments: Periodic deep cleaning prevents long-term buildup
  • Rushing the process: This method takes more time than traditional washing

Building Your Co-Washing Routine

Creating a sustainable routine requires understanding your hair’s unique needs and lifestyle demands. The flexibility of this method allows for customization, but establishing a consistent foundation helps you achieve predictable results. Your routine will evolve as you learn what works, but starting with basic guidelines provides structure during the learning phase.

Frequency guidelines

Washing frequency with this method varies dramatically based on hair type, lifestyle, and personal preference. Those with dry, coily hair might wash once weekly or less, while women with fine or oily hair might need washing every other day. Starting with your current washing frequency and adjusting based on results works better than making dramatic changes immediately.

Your activity level influences optimal frequency more than with traditional washing. Since this method doesn’t strip natural oils as aggressively, you might find you can exercise without needing to wash immediately after. Light refreshing with water or diluted conditioner between full washes often suffices for maintaining freshness.

Seasonal changes affect washing needs significantly. Summer humidity and increased sweating might require more frequent cleansing, while winter’s dry air could allow for extended time between washes. Paying attention to how your hair feels and looks guides these adjustments better than following rigid schedules.

Alternating with clarifying treatments

Even the gentlest cleansing routine requires periodic deep cleaning to prevent buildup. Clarifying treatments remove accumulated products, minerals from hard water, and environmental pollutants that conditioner alone can’t eliminate. How often you clarify depends on your water quality, product use, and hair’s tendency toward buildup.

Most women find monthly clarifying sufficient, though those with very oily scalps or heavy product use might need biweekly treatments. Signs you need clarifying include hair feeling coated despite thorough rinsing, loss of curl pattern or volume, or increased tangling. Your hair should feel notably different after clarifying – lighter and more responsive to styling.

Choose clarifying methods based on your hair’s sensitivity. Sulfate-free clarifying shampoos offer gentler deep cleaning than traditional clarifiers. Natural alternatives like bentonite clay masks or baking soda treatments (used sparingly) provide effective clarifying without harsh chemicals. Apple cider vinegar rinses offer the mildest clarifying option for sensitive scalps.

Product rotation strategies

Using the same products continuously can lead to buildup or decreased effectiveness as your hair adapts. Rotating between two or three different conditioners or cleansing conditioners prevents this adaptation while addressing varying hair needs. One product might excel at moisture while another provides better cleansing power.

Seasonal rotation makes practical sense as hair needs change with weather conditions. Lighter formulas work well in humid summer months when hair needs less added moisture. Richer, more emollient products suit winter’s harsh, drying conditions. Having options ready prevents scrambling when weather shifts suddenly.

Consider rotating based on your styling routine as well. Weeks with heavy heat styling or multiple events requiring elaborate styles might call for more moisturizing formulas. Lighter cleansing might suffice during low-maintenance periods when you’re wearing protective styles or minimal products. This strategic approach maximizes each product’s benefits while preventing overload.

Seasonal adjustments

Winter presents unique challenges for maintaining healthy hair with this method. Indoor heating creates extremely dry conditions that increase hair’s moisture needs. You might need richer conditioners or longer conditioning time during cold months. Adding humidifiers to your living space supports your hair care efforts by maintaining ambient moisture.

Summer humidity affects how products perform and how quickly hair accumulates environmental buildup. You might need more frequent clarifying or lighter formulas to prevent hair from feeling weighed down. Some women switch to cleansing conditioners exclusively during summer rather than regular conditioners to manage increased oil production from heat and humidity.

Spring and fall transition periods offer opportunities to assess and adjust your routine. These seasons let you experiment with frequency and product changes while weather remains relatively stable. Document what works during these times to reference when similar conditions return.

Water temperature adjustments throughout the year improve comfort and results. Slightly warmer water in winter helps products spread more easily when they’re cold from storage. Cooler water in summer provides relief from heat while helping seal the cuticle for humidity protection.

Maintaining scalp health

A healthy scalp foundation supports beautiful hair regardless of your washing method. Regular scalp massage during washing improves circulation and helps distribute natural oils. Between washes, gentle brushing with a boar bristle brush or similar tool maintains scalp health while distributing oils down the hair shaft.

Pay attention to changes in your scalp condition as you establish your routine. Initial itching or flaking might occur during the transition period but should resolve within a few weeks. Persistent scalp issues require evaluation – you might need different products or additional treatments to maintain scalp health.

Scalp treatments complement your washing routine without disrupting its benefits. Weekly oil treatments using lightweight oils like jojoba or argan nourish the scalp while providing deep conditioning. Tea tree oil added to conditioner offers antimicrobial benefits for those prone to scalp issues. Gentle exfoliation using a soft brush or diluted apple cider vinegar removes dead skin cells without harsh scrubbing.

Troubleshooting Common Co-Washing Challenges

Every hair journey includes obstacles, and this washing method presents unique challenges that can discourage even committed users. Understanding common problems and their solutions helps you persist through difficult periods and achieve the beautiful results this method can deliver. Most issues resolve with minor adjustments rather than abandoning the technique entirely.

Product buildup solutions

Buildup remains the most common complaint among those using this washing method. The conditioning agents that make hair soft and manageable can accumulate over time, especially without regular sulfate use. Recognizing buildup symptoms early prevents more serious problems like hair loss or scalp irritation from developing.

Your hair provides clear indicators when buildup becomes problematic. Strands feel coated or waxy even after thorough washing, and your normal styles don’t hold as well. Products that usually absorb quickly seem to sit on top of your hair. You might notice increased shedding as buildup prevents normal hair turnover at the scalp.

Prevention works better than correction for buildup issues. Choose lighter conditioners if you’re prone to this problem, and ensure your massage technique adequately cleanses the scalp. Regular clarifying treatments prevent accumulation from reaching problematic levels. Some women find adding a small amount of baking soda to their conditioner once weekly provides gentle clarification without separate treatments.

When buildup does occur, resist the urge to immediately return to harsh shampoos. Start with a clarifying rinse using diluted apple cider vinegar – one part vinegar to four parts water. massage this mixture into your scalp and lengths, then rinse thoroughly. For stubborn buildup, a clay mask treatment pulls impurities from hair without stripping beneficial moisture.

Greasy roots management

The transition period often includes a phase where roots feel greasier than usual as your scalp adjusts its oil production. This temporary increase in oiliness causes many women to abandon the method before their scalp regulates. Understanding this adjustment period helps you persist through the uncomfortable phase.

Extending time between washes gradually helps your scalp learn to produce less oil. If you’re washing daily, try every other day first rather than jumping to twice weekly. This gradual transition gives your scalp time to adjust without the shock of dramatic change. Dry shampoo or cornstarch can absorb excess oil between washes during this adjustment.

Focus your cleansing efforts on the scalp while keeping conditioner concentrated on your lengths. Section your hair to ensure thorough scalp access, and spend extra time massaging oily areas. Some women success with “pre-pooing” – applying conditioner to dry hair before wetting – as this can help break down excess sebum more effectively.

Transition period expectations

The adjustment phase typically lasts two to six weeks but varies significantly among individuals. Your previous washing routine, hair type, and scalp condition all influence transition duration and intensity. Documenting your experience helps identify patterns and improvements that might not be immediately obvious.

During transition, your hair might feel different than you’re accustomed to – neither dirty nor clean in the traditional sense. This new texture can feel strange initially but becomes your new normal as you adjust. Many women report their hair feels thicker or has more grip during styling, which can be advantageous once you adapt your techniques.

Week-by-week changes during transition:

  • Week 1-2: Increased oiliness, possible itching, hair feels different
  • Week 3-4: Oil production begins stabilizing, hair feels softer
  • Week 5-6: Scalp reaches equilibrium, true benefits become apparent
  • Week 7+: Routine established, continued improvement in hair health

Persistence through this phase pays significant dividends. Women who push through transition often report their hair becomes more manageable than ever before. The initial discomfort pales compared to long-term benefits of healthier, more beautiful hair.

Adjusting for hard water

Mineral deposits from hard water create specific challenges for this washing method. Calcium and magnesium in hard water react with conditioning agents, potentially leaving hair feeling worse than before washing. Understanding your water quality helps explain mysterious problems with technique or products.

Simple tests reveal whether hard water affects your results. If soap doesn’t lather well or leaves residue on your shower doors, you likely have hard water. Your hair might feel impossibly tangled after washing or never quite feel clean despite thorough rinsing. These symptoms suggest mineral interference with your cleansing routine.

Chelating treatments remove mineral buildup more effectively than regular clarifying. Look for products containing EDTA or citric acid, which bind to minerals and remove them from hair. Monthly chelating treatments prevent mineral accumulation while maintaining the benefits of your gentle routine. Some women alternate between clarifying and chelating treatments for comprehensive buildup prevention.

Installing a shower filter provides the most comprehensive solution for hard water challenges. Filters remove or neutralize minerals before they contact your hair, improving immediate results and long-term hair health. The investment in a quality filter often pays for itself through reduced product use and extended time between salon treatments.

When to modify your approach

Recognizing when your routine needs adjustment prevents frustration and hair damage. Life changes like pregnancy, medication, or hormonal shifts can alter your hair’s needs dramatically. What worked perfectly for months might suddenly cause problems, requiring flexibility in your approach.

Seasonal changes often necessitate routine modifications. You might need to increase washing frequency during allergy season when pollen accumulates in hair. Travel to different climates or water conditions might require temporary changes to maintain results. Having backup plans for these situations prevents panic when your usual routine fails.

Sometimes stepping back from exclusive use of this method benefits your hair. Occasional use of gentle shampoo doesn’t negate the benefits you’ve achieved. Some women find a hybrid approach – using this technique most of the time with strategic shampooing – provides optimal results. Your routine should serve your hair’s needs, not adhere to rigid rules that no longer work.

Your Journey to Healthier, More Beautiful Hair

This washing method offers a path to healthier, more beautiful hair that works with your natural texture rather than against it. The journey requires patience during the adjustment period and willingness to experiment with products and techniques. Once you find your perfect routine, the minimal daily effort yields maximum results in hair health and appearance.

Most women who successfully adopt this technique report their relationship with their hair completely transforms. Instead of fighting frizz, dryness, and damage, they work with their hair’s natural characteristics. The money saved on products and salon treatments becomes an added bonus to having consistently beautiful, manageable hair. Your commitment to gentler cleansing today creates the foundation for years of healthier, more resilient hair tomorrow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does the transition period really last when switching to co-washing?
A: The transition period typically lasts 2-6 weeks, though some women adjust within days while others need up to two months. Your previous routine, hair type, and how gradually you make the switch all affect transition duration.

Q: Can I co-wash if I work out daily and sweat a lot?
A: Yes, many active women successfully use this method. You might need to wash more frequently or do a water rinse between full washes. Focus extra attention on scalp massage during cleansing to remove sweat and bacteria.

Q: Will co-washing make my hair grow faster?
A: While this method doesn’t directly accelerate growth, it reduces breakage and maintains healthier hair, making length retention easier. Many women notice their hair appears to grow faster simply because less breaks off.

Q: Do I need special conditioners or can I use regular ones?
A: Regular silicone-free conditioners work well for many people. Cleansing conditioners designed for washing offer stronger cleaning power but aren’t mandatory. Start with what you have and upgrade if needed.

Q: How do I know if buildup is becoming a problem?
A: Your hair will feel coated, heavy, or waxy even after washing. Styles won’t hold as well, and products seem to sit on hair rather than absorbing. Increased tangling or shedding also indicates buildup issues.

Q: Can I still use heat styling tools with this method?
A: Absolutely. The extra moisture from this washing method actually provides better heat protection. Your hair might require less heat or shorter styling time due to improved condition and manageability.

Q: What if my hairdresser says I need to use shampoo?
A: Many stylists aren’t familiar with this method. You can use a clarifying shampoo before salon visits if needed. Educate your stylist about your routine, or find one who supports alternative washing methods.

Q: How much conditioner should I really be using?
A: Significantly more than traditional conditioning – often 2-3 times the amount. Your hair should feel completely coated and slippery during massage. Fine hair needs less than thick hair, but don’t skimp on product.

Q: Is it normal for my hair to feel different but not dirty or clean?
A: Yes, this “different” feeling is common during transition and even after. Your hair maintains more of its natural oils, creating a new texture you’ll grow accustomed to. This feeling often means the method is working correctly.