You probably think you have your hair washing and conditioning routine down to a tee, but according to one expert, you could be making a major mistake that causes a myriad of issues.
A trichologist – an expert in the hair and scalp – took to TikTok with a warning about conditioner.
Naming a “common conditioning mistake”, Taylor Tinham (@thehealthyhur) said: “Not using your hair conditioner properly could result in hair loss.”
Explaining that conditioner is designed to keep the hair “healthy, shiny and long”, the expert advised against applying it to the scalp.
‘Not using your hair conditioner properly could result in hair loss’
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She said: “Not only do conditioners not moisturise your scalp the same way they do your hair, they actually can cause build-up on your scalp, resulting in an unhealthy scalp environment that can lead to hair loss and dandruff.”
While conditioner is excellent for “moisturising dry ends”, it can “wreak havoc on your scalp”.
To avoid trouble with your tresses, the expert advised only applying conditioner from the mid-lengths of your hair to the ends.
The hair experts at L’Oréal Paris confirmed that conditioning the scalp can be a recipe for disaster, warning that this mistake can also cause greasiness.
They stated: “It’s a good idea to apply conditioner only where it’s needed the most – for example, your mid-lengths to your ends (since this part of your hair tends to be the driest).
“Applying conditioner at the roots can weigh down your hair and cause your roots to appear greasy, even right after you’ve finished cleansing.”
Other mistakes include using too much conditioner or too little, leaving it in too long or not long enough, using the wrong product for your hair type and not conditioning it regularly.
The experts outlined exactly how to use conditioner for a magnificent mane.
How to apply conditioner
Wash your hair
Lather a coin-sized amount of shampoo in your hands and apply it to the scalp, before rinsing it out with warm water.
Apply your conditioner
Pour a coin-sized amount of conditioner into your hands and use it to coat the mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. For thick, curly or long hair, consider sectioning your locks first.
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Incorrect use of conditioner can also lead to dandruff
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Detangle (gently)
Use your fingers to carefully remove any knots or clumps, as this can lead to tangles and breakages. Those who have curly hair may choose to use a detangling brush.
Let it sit
Every conditioner is different, so always look at your chosen product’s instructions. You’ll probably want to wait between one and three minutes.
Rinse your hair
Using warm water, give your hair a rinse. Ensure this is thorough to avoid product build-up, which can lead to the hair feeling greasy.
Finish with an in-shower treatment
Select a hair treatment depending on your specific hair type and concerns. This could be a hair mask, deep conditioner or glossing treatment.
Another hair expert weighed in on the right way to wash your hair, warning women that they are “probably doing it wrong”.
Sharing the shower secret to luscious locks, hair and scalp guru Dorian White named the important step before using shampoo.
