Hair speaks volumes about a person’s health and genetic makeup, but even with a favourable genetic blueprint, good hair isn’t a given. Sometimes it’s your habits standing in the way of healthy-looking locks.
According to the executive of the Este Medical Group, Sam Cinkir, simply failing to rinse properly after using shampoo could result in a slew of problems.
Not only does it cause damage, but it could also trigger scalp irritation and, in more serious cases, infection or hair loss.
“Hair plays a huge role in our appearance for many of us, and a good hair day can really put a spring in your step,” Mr Cinkir noted.
Reassessing how you wash your hair could be the key to shiny locks
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“One very common and very basic mistake I see people make is failing to rinse their hair properly, and this can have a surprisingly big effect.
“If you’re not getting rid of built-up dirt and grime and leftover hair products when you wash your hair, it can lead to damage and irritation, as well as risk infection and even hair loss.”
For optimal scalp health, aim to wash hair between one and two times a week. Naturally, this will vary considerably depending on individual hair characteristics and daily habits.
Anyone with finer hair will usually benefit from washing their locks two to three times a week.
Individuals with thick tresses, however, may only require cleansing once or twice.
The ideal washing schedule also hinges on external factors like exposure to external pollution and physical activity.
“My advice to make sure you are rinsing properly is to split it in half and tackle it slowly, making sure not to miss anywhere,” Mr Cinkir added.
He recommends dedicating approximately two minutes to the process and continuing longer if the hair doesn’t feel sufficiently clean.
Dedicate at least two minutes to cleansing so your hair feels sufficiently clean
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Water temperature is worth considering, too, for shinier locks. Excess heat can also leave strands feeling brittle and porous, contributing to damage over time.
“It’s important to use lukewarm rather than hot water as it dries the scalp and can weaken the roots,” Mr Cinkir advised.