Most of us have been washing our hair since childhood without thinking much about technique, but a few simple habits can noticeably improve hair health — or quietly damage it.

Before washing

Detangle your hair well before it gets wet to reduce knots, and if your hair is very dry, apply a light oil to the ends half an hour before showering as extra protection.

While washing

  • Use lukewarm, not hot, water — very hot water strips the scalp of its natural oils.
  • Apply shampoo to the scalp, not the full length of the hair, since the scalp is what actually needs cleansing.
  • Massage the scalp gently with fingertips, not nails, to stimulate circulation without irritating the skin.
  • Apply conditioner to the ends and mid-lengths, away from the scalp, to avoid excess oiliness.

After washing

Dry your hair gently with a cotton or microfiber towel by patting, not rubbing — rubbing wet hair increases breakage. Let it air-dry as much as possible, and if you use a blow dryer, choose a medium heat setting with reasonable distance from the scalp.