5 tips to keep your hair clean longer

For many of you, it’s standard practice to shampoo and restyle your hair every day. There are however several good arguments for washing your hair less often – you save time, protect your hair and minimise the fading of hair colour.

There are ways you can train your scalp to produce less oil and allow you more time between washes. Start by adding an extra day to your normal shampoo routine. It might feel strange at first, but within a week or so you will find that your hair and scalp will adjust and reduce the amount of greasiness that you experience.

Within a few weeks you will probably be able to increase the time between shampoos even more, especially if you also implement a few of these tips: 

One of the most common reasons for oily hair is the use of silicone in your shampoo or conditioner. Silicone creates a barrier over your hair and scalp that initially makes your hair feel soft and moisturised, but it very quickly turns greasy – especially if you combine it with heavy styling products or face creams. This stickiness in turn attracts more oil and dirt throughout the day and leaves you with no choice but to shampoo again the next morning. (To find out if your shampoo or conditioner contains silicone, just check for ingredients that end with "cone".)

Use a gentle sulphate-free shampoo and go easy on the styling products. If you need to restyle in between shampoos, then simply wet your hair down and use a leave-in moisturising product to detangle before restyling. The more styling product you add, the more your hair attracts dirt and you end up having to shampoo again. Use lighter styling products that don’t leave residue but still maintain your style.

Product residue builds up in your brushes every time you use them and you may be inadvertently reapplying it back into your hair every time you blow dry. Simply soaking your brush in a mild detergent and leaving to dry on a hand towel will usually do the trick.

Create some versatility in your style. Start off with your hair newly styled, then change it during the week by using accessories like clips or bands, and eventually progress to ponytails and top knots if you have the length. Next time you are at the salon, ask your hairdresser to show you some tips and tricks for different ways that you can wear your hair. Many salons sell great little hair accessories these days and they can really help you through your hair week.

Dry shampoo is one of the best ways to keep your hair and scalp feeling fresh and clean between washes, and especially after a workout. By using alcohol or starch-based ingredients, dry shampoos absorb the oils and sweat from the hair to leave it smelling and refreshed. Some dry shampoos have a high alcohol/powder content and can make your hair feel brittle, so choose a product that leaves your hair flexible and clean without a matt powdery finish. Dry shampoo in a mousse form has a softer cleansing effect and is a perfect option for those who are not comfortable using a spray.

Please send us your questions or comments! We are here to support you on your path towards happier, healthier hair!