How to Properly Shampoo Your Hair

Clean Hair Tips for Men

How to Shampoo Your Hair
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A lot of us men don't really pay attention to shampooing our hair—we throw in a squirt of shampoo, rub it around, rinse and go as quickly as possible. The benefits of a great shampoo go beyond the obvious (removing dirt, oil, and styling product) and include cleaning the pores, exfoliating the scalp, and improving circulation, all of which lead to a healthier scalp—and healthier-looking hair. Oh, and a great shampoo feels good, too. Here's how to do it right.

1) First, you'll want to make sure to select the proper shampoo and conditioner for your hair type.  The right shampoo can help correct any hair or scalp issues you may have and can also give your hair more shine or volume.

2) While in the shower, make sure your water is warm, but not too hot. Shampooing in water that is too hot can strip your hair and scalp of essential oils, so shower using the coolest water possible.

3) Thoroughly wet the hair by standing under the shower and allowing a gentle stream of water to saturate the hair.

4) Apply a bit of shampoo into the palm of your hand (a nickel sized amount is usually just about right) and work it through the hair. If your hair is longer, don't pile it up on your head, instead comb through it with your fingers to reduce tangles.

5) Using the tips of your fingers, work in a firm circular motion from the front of the scalp down to the back of the neck and then up the sides towards the temples. Continue this motion for several minutes. This will stimulate and exfoliate the scalp.

6) Rinse the hair completely and, if the hair is longer, use a wide-tooth comb to remove tangles and smooth the hair.  Unlike what you may have read on the bottle, there is no need to repeat.  The whole "lather, rinse, repeat" thing is a marketing gimmick designed to sell more shampoo, plus too much shampooing can dry out your hair and scalp.

7) Apply a conditioner in the same manner you applied the shampoo. Allow the conditioner to remain on for a few minutes, unless otherwise instructed.  

8) Rinse the hair with cool water and comb through it again.  Use care not to tug on the hair which can cause damage and breaking.

9) Dry the hair with a towel using a patting or stroking motion. Never rub the hair back and forth or in circles with a towel as this will cause damage to the hair.

Using the proper shampoo and conditioning technique each day will help keep your scalp healthy and your hair looking its best.