You always go an extra mile when it comes to your hair. Like every weekend after applying a hair mask, you oiled your hair last night, tied it in a ponytail, and slept. The next morning, you shampoo, and condition it with clean hair products , and it is all fresh and clean, but that doesn’t end there. Your hair turns frizzy, dry, or, worse, breaks. All that care went into vain.
As much as it is frustrating it is sad as well. But guess what nourishing and conditioning is not enough. Your hair needs post hair wash care. By adding these essential tips your hair will be healthy and luminious.
Do: Use a Microfiber Towel or T-Shirt
Using a regular bath towel to dry your hair can be too harsh. The rough texture of a typical towel can cause friction, which leads to breakage and frizz. Instead, opt for a microfiber towel or even an old, soft T-shirt. These are gentler on your hair, helping to prevent damage while absorbing excess water more efficiently. Simply wrap your hair in the microfiber towel or T-shirt and gently squeeze out the water—no vigorous rubbing needed!
Don’t: Brush Wet Hair
Your hair is at its weakest when it’s wet, and brushing it too soon can lead to unnecessary breakage. Instead of brushing wet hair, use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle any knots, starting from the ends and working your way up. If you have particularly thick or curly hair, consider using a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to make the process easier and reduce breakage.
Do: Apply a Leave-In Conditioner or Serum
To keep your hair hydrated and smooth, a leave-in conditioner or serum is a must after washing. These products help lock in moisture, reduce frizz, and provide protection from heat styling. Look for a product suited to your hair type—whether you need something lightweight for fine hair or something richer for thick or curly hair. Applying these products while your hair is still damp allows for better absorption and easier styling later.
Don’t: Skip Heat Protectant
If you plan on using any heat tools like a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling wand, a heat protectant spray is non-negotiable. Heat styling can cause significant damage to your hair over time, leading to dryness, split ends, and breakage. A good heat protectant spray shields your hair from these effects by creating a barrier between the heat and your strands. Apply it evenly to your hair before using any hot tools, and always keep the temperature as low as possible to minimize damage.
Do: Air-Dry Whenever Possible
While it’s tempting to blow-dry your hair to achieve a sleek finish, air-drying is the best way to reduce heat damage and keep your hair healthy in the long run. If you have the time, let your hair air-dry at least partially before using a blow dryer or let it dry naturally. You can scrunch your hair to encourage natural waves or twists for added texture without heat. Air-drying not only helps preserve your hair’s moisture but also reduces the risk of frizz and breakage.
Don’t: Tie Your Hair Too Tightly
It might be convenient to throw your damp hair up into a ponytail or bun, but doing so can actually cause a lot of damage. Tying your hair too tightly when it’s wet can stretch and weaken your strands, leading to breakage and frizz once your hair dries. Instead, opt for a loose braid or a soft scrunchie to hold your hair back gently. This allows your hair to dry without the stress of a tight band pulling on it.
Do: Use the Right Styling Products for Your Hair Type
Styling products can work wonders when it comes to enhancing your natural texture and giving your hair a polished finish—but only if you use the right ones. If you have fine hair, avoid heavy creams and opt for lightweight mousses or sprays that provide volume without weighing your hair down. On the other hand, if you have thick or curly hair, you may benefit from richer products like creams, oils, or styling butters to keep your hair smooth and defined.
Don’t: Overload Your Hair with Product
While it’s tempting to apply multiple products for extra shine and frizz control, overloading your hair with too much product can backfire. Too many products can weigh down your hair, making it look greasy and flat rather than shiny and voluminous. Stick to the basics: a good leave-in conditioner, a heat protectant (if needed), and a styling product tailored to your hair type. A little goes a long way!
Do: Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase
A silk pillowcase is one of the best investments you can make for your hair. Silk is much gentler on your hair compared to cotton, reducing friction while you sleep, which helps minimize frizz, tangles, and breakage. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase not only benefits your hair but also helps keep your skin soft and wrinkle-free. Plus, it’s a small luxury that feels great!
Don’t: Neglect Regular Trims
Finally, it’s essential to maintain regular trims, even if you’re growing your hair out. Regular trims prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, which can make your hair look frizzy and damaged. Aim for a trim every 6-8 weeks to keep your ends healthy and your hair looking luminous.
Incorporating these do’s and don’ts into your post-wash clean hair care routine will keep your hair looking its best. Whether you have fine, curly, or thick hair, taking a few extra steps after washing will help you achieve smooth, shiny, and healthy locks that are ready for any style!
