You're Washing Your Hair Wrong: 18 Haircare Secrets You Should Know

Washing your hair seems simple enough, but you might be surprised to discover that the secret to smoother, less damaged, healthier hair is all in the details. Your hair might not be as frizzy or unmanageable as you think. It could just be your hair routine.

Here are our expert tips to ensure that you wash, condition, and care for your locks the right way and avoid common pitfalls. Here are 18 haircare secrets you should know:

1. Less is more: Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to wash your hair daily. Overwashing can strip your hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and breakage. Aim to wash your hair two to three times weekly to keep it healthier. 
   Try this nurishing shampoo: AG Repair Me Wash
   
   
2. Focus on the scalp: When shampooing, concentrate on cleansing your scalp rather than your hair length. This helps remove excess oil and product buildup without drying out your ends.
   Try this scalp-friendly shampoo: AG Balancing Apple Cider Vinegar Shampoo
   
   
3. Conditioner is for ends: Apply conditioner mainly to the ends of your hair, where it tends to be driest and most damaged. Depending on how greasy your hair gets, avoid the scalp area to prevent weighing down your hair and causing an oily scalp.
   Try this hydrating conditioner: Kevin Murphy Hydrate Me Rinse
   
   
4. Cold rinse for shine: Finish your shower with cold water to seal the hair cuticle and boost shine.
   
   
5. Detangle with care: Gently detangle wet hair using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers. Start at the ends and work your way up to minimize breakage. Try this detangling spray: AG Conditioning Mist 
   
   
6. Blot, don't rub: Instead of vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel, gently blot excess moisture to prevent frizz and damage.
   
   
7. Protect from heat: Always use a heat protectant spray before styling with hot tools to shield your hair from damage.
   Try: Kevin Murphy Heat Defense 
   
   
8. Switch your shampoo: Your hair can build resistance to certain ingredients over time, so rotate between different shampoos to keep it fresh and responsive. Aim to change shampoos at least three times a year. 
   Try: AG Vitamin C Strengthening Shampoo
   
   
9. Clarify regularly: Use a clarifying shampoo monthly to remove stubborn buildup from styling products and hard water minerals.
   Try: Joico K Pak Clarifying Shampoo
   
   
10. Dry Shampoo dos and don'ts: While dry shampoo can be a lifesaver between washes, avoid using it too frequently, as it can clog your scalp pores. Remember, it's best used as an emergency measure, not a substitute for washing.
    Try: AG Simply Dry Shampoo
    
    
11. Silk pillowcase for smoothness: Swap out your cotton pillowcase for a silk one to reduce friction and prevent hair breakage while you sleep.
    
    
12. Trim regularly: Schedule regular trims every six to eight weeks to prevent split ends and keep your hair looking healthy and fresh.
    
    
13. Deep condition weekly: Treat your hair to a weekly deep conditioning treatment to replenish moisture and restore vitality. Even those with oily hair should aim to deep condition weekly and focus primarily on the tips. 
    Try: Kevin Murphy Angel Masque 
    
    
14. Protect from UV: Like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun's harmful rays. Look for hair products with built-in SPF, or wear a hat outdoors for extended periods. 
    Try: AG Colour Savour Colour Protecting Conditioner
    
    
15. Avoid overbrushing: Brushing your hair too often can lead to breakage, especially when wet. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush to work out knots gently.
    Try this gentle comb: Kevin Murphy Texture Comb
    
    
16. Pump up the volume: For extra volume, flip your hair upside down while blow-drying and focus on lifting the roots with your fingers or a round brush.
    Try this thickening treatment: Kevin Murphy Thick Again
    
    
17. Embrace air drying: Let your hair air dry whenever possible to minimize heat damage and encourage natural texture.
    Try this air dry cream; AG Rosehip Balm
    
    
18. Hydrate from within: Lastly, don't forget that healthy hair starts from the inside out. Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to nourish your hair from within.