Many people habitually pour shampoo directly onto the hair at the crown of their head and rub it in. This is a major mistake. The chemical components in shampoo can directly irritate the hair follicles on the scalp, loosening the roots. Over time, this may lead to abnormal hair loss.
The correct method is to first pour shampoo into your palm, add a little water to dilute it, lather it up, then evenly distribute it over your hair. Gently massage your scalp to avoid chemical irritation while thoroughly cleansing your hair. Finally, tilt your head back to allow water to rinse your hair from the neck and back of the head.
When washing, use circular motions while massaging the scalp with fingertips. Never scratch the scalp with fingernails, as this can easily cause injury.
Avoid directing water straight onto the crown of the head during rinsing—a common mistake in showers. The crown is an oily, hair-prone area; direct pressure here intensifies irritation and accelerates hair loss.
Additionally, the washing sequence differs for short and long hair. Start washing short hair from the back of the head, while begin washing long hair from the ends. Otherwise, hair can become greasy and prone to shedding. Those with oily scalps should focus on cleansing the roots, while those with dry scalps should avoid prolonged washing to prevent shampoo from staying on the scalp too long.
Shampoo residue can trigger scalp allergies, so ensure thorough rinsing with ample water. However, avoid using excessively hot water, as high temperatures dehydrate the scalp, causing dryness, brittleness, and breakage. Opt for water between 30–40°C (86–104°F).Additionally, those with dandruff may use medicated shampoo, but the washing technique differs slightly. After the first wash, rinse hair thoroughly. For the second wash, do not rinse immediately. Allow the shampoo lather to remain on the scalp for 5–10 minutes to maximize the medication's effectiveness.