Shampoo

Choosing for the scalp first

Start with what bothers you at the roots: oiliness, styling residue, tightness or dandruff. Dry ends do not necessarily mean a dry scalp. You may need a shampoo that cleans the roots well and a richer treatment for the lengths, rather than one bottle that does everything.

The three recommendations cover dry or dehydrated hair, normal hair and oily hair. The exact products vary with your shopping country. Choose one that suits your hair rather than using all three; these everyday shampoos are not specific dandruff treatments.

Wash when hair needs it

If your roots become oily the next day and daily washing works for you, there is no need to wait several days. If your scalp stays clean and comfortable for longer, you can leave more time between washes. Assess the results over several washes: clean roots, no itching and lengths that do not keep feeling rough.

After exercise, take sweat and any products in your hair into account. Rinsing alone may be enough in some situations, but it removes oil and styling residue less effectively. Wash your hair if it feels sticky, smells or has a buildup of product.

Reach the roots rather than making a lot of foam

Wet your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water, making sure it reaches the scalp. Spread a small amount of shampoo between your hands, then apply it to the front, temples, crown and back of your head. If your hair is very dense, part it to distribute the shampoo rather than adding more on top.

Massage with your fingertips without scratching with your nails. Work the shampoo through the roots, then rinse every area, particularly behind the ears and at the nape of your neck. An everyday shampoo usually does not need to be left on for long. For a treatment shampoo, follow its instructions for contact time and frequency.

Decide if a second pass is useful

One wash is enough if you are happy with the result. A second wash may help after a heavy buildup of oil, wax or styling products. Little lather on the first wash does not automatically mean you need to repeat it: lather also depends on the formula, water and how you apply the shampoo.

If the lengths have a lot of residue, work shampoo through them before rinsing. Otherwise, avoid piling them on your head and rubbing them together. A clarifying shampoo can occasionally help when your usual shampoo is no longer enough; it does not need to become an extra step every time you shower.

Preserve lengths after washing

Conditioner makes detangling easier and leaves hair feeling smoother, especially if the lengths are dry, curly or damaged. Follow its instructions, focusing on the lengths and ends if your roots become oily quickly.

Gently squeeze your hair with a towel without rubbing, then detangle it in a way suited to your hair type. For curls, use suitable products and tools rather than pulling through knots. See Hair styling for drying and styling techniques.

Do not confuse discomfort with lack of cleaning

A harsher shampoo does not always solve dandruff. An anti-dandruff formula may help when used according to its instructions and a pharmacist's advice. Seek medical advice for patches, pain, sores or persistent itching, rather than washing or scratching more.

Dry shampoo can temporarily reduce an oily appearance, but it does not replace washing. Follow its instructions and keep regular washes in your routine. Stop using any new product that causes irritation.