It is an integral part of the whole family's routine: it is the shampoo. Too often chosen in haste (and applied quickly), we can quickly overlook its composition and simply not use it properly. However, there is so much to be gained by opting for a clean shampoo that is adapted to your hair type! Spacing out the washes, healthier and shinier hair, better choice for our health and that of the environment... The advantages are numerous. In this article, we also explain how to use your shampoo properly.
Shampoo, that daily essential
If there is one product that everyone has in their bathroom, it is shampoo! Although its use dates back to Ancient Egypt, the basis has not changed that much since, in order to eliminate impurities (mainly dust, pollution and sebum), any shampoo consists of a detergent. The problem is that not all sulphates are the same, some being more irritating than others. Thus, in the long run, "ammonium lauryl sulphate"or "sodium laureth sulphate"(the most common) can end up irritating the scalp and cause itching and dandruff, as well as drying out the hair. To avoid this, you can turn to an organic or natural shampoo or natural shampoo, a category that favours gentler, environmentally friendly detergents such as coconut derivatives. Finally, it's best to avoid shampoos containing silicones, a real plastic that envelops and smothers each hair with a plastic layer: although it gives the illusion that the hair is shinier and stronger, it's just that... an illusion.
Honey shampoo for dry hair
As you can see, at Oh My Cream, we are in favour of shampoos with clean formulas that are not only more respectful of your health and the environment, but also more effective in treating certain problems. Typically, if your hair is dry and damaged, using a honey shampoo or an organic moisturising shampoo for example, will help repair the hair fibre and nourish the hair.
Which shampoo should I use for normal to oily hair?
Normal hair should avoid using a shampoo shampoo that is too rich, otherwise it will weigh your hair down. Choose a shampoo with an aloe vera base to moisturise without overloading your hair, for example! If, on the other hand, your hair tends to re-grease quickly or develop oily dandruff, opt for a purifying shampoo with sage, mint or zinc to balance your hair.
How often should I use my shampoo?
Finally, the frequency of shampoo depends on the nature of your hair and your daily life: you don't wash your hair as much in the country as in the city or by the sea, whether or not you play sports, whether or not you often wear hats, hoods, etc. In short, it's up to you to determine when you need to shampoo your hair, when the sebum becomes too much to the touch and the hair feels "heavy" at the roots.
How to (really) use your shampoo and conditioner properly?
To get the most out of your shampooyou just need to do the right things! To begin with, always take a small amount of product: a dab is enough, preferably mixed on the hands (and not directly on the scalp). Then, spread your shampoo first on the forehead, then the nape of the neck, the top of the head, and finish with the temples. A little tip: if you think you haven't used enough shampoo, you can add a trickle of water to start with, which is often enough to avoid adding more. Gently massage the scalp with your fingertips (no more washing machine effect). There is no need to rub shampoo into the lengths and ends of the hair: it will clean them as you rinse. Rinse and for the more daring, finish with a trickle of water to tighten the scales and give a shine. After rinsing, the hair should be crisp under your fingers. Then you can move on to using a conditioner or a hair mask according to your needs. Be careful, never use your care products at the roots, otherwise your hair will be weighed down, stick to the lengths and ends. The only exception may be for frizzy hair, whose scalp is generally dry, which can therefore relieve it. Wait a few minutes and then rinse with plenty of water, preferably not too hot (and again, ideally, you can finish with a splash of cold water). If the hair is very dry and damaged, it is also possible to use an oil on the whole hair and leave it on for a few minutes to several hours, before rinsing with shampoo.
Now you are ready to choose the right shampoo and apply it like a pro! By switching to a natural shampoo and if you have always used silicone-based shampoos, your hair may need time to adapt: silicones are not eliminated in a single wash and the first few washes may leave you with the impression that your hair is "heavier" and greasier. We advise you to really persevere: you will soon find your hair in its natural state and discover how beautiful, shiny and healthy it can be!
