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I asked a hairdresser how to stretch out my hair between washes

WORDS BY YASMIN GOWER

Expert tips for getting the most out of your hair.

The idea of washing my hair every day feels like a relentless chore, and while I’ve tried “hair training” in the past, it hasn’t seemed to work for me. But the damage daily washing can do to your hair has always concerned me. I desperately want to extend the time between washes while keeping my locks fresh and shiny, but how can I achieve that?


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To uncover these secrets, I spoke to hairdresser Yoshie Tsukuda from Donna Sheridan in Fitzroy. With 19 years of experience in the industry, she’s an expert on all things hair, including maintaining hair cleanliness and prolonging the time between washes. Here’s what she had to say.

Why do some people have oilier hair and what are the main causes of this? 

It’s understandable that some people have greasier hair than others, and there are multiple factors that can contribute to this, such as genetics, hormones, hair type, sebum production, washing frequency, product build-up and environmental factors.

What would you say an average hair-washing schedule looks like?

The average hair-washing routine varies widely based on individual hair type and lifestyle. However, a general guideline is washing hair two to three times a week. Those with oilier hair may need to wash it more frequently, while those with drier hair may need to wash it less often. The key is finding the right balance to avoid over-washing or under-washing. 

What products and/or techniques do you recommend using to ensure hair stays clean for as long as possible? 

To keep your hair clean and fresh for as long as possible, it’s important to take certain steps before, during and after washing. Use a scalp brush or scalp scrub to exfoliate and remove build-up before washing. Start by thoroughly wetting your hair with lukewarm water and using the right amount of shampoo to ensure proper lathering. 

Consider using a sulphate-free shampoo or gentle shampoo to cleanse without stripping natural oils. A clarifying shampoo once a week removes build-up. After washing, applying the correct amount of conditioner on the ends and rinsing thoroughly with warm or cold water can help maintain your hair’s cleanliness. Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer on a cool setting. Excessive heat can also stimulate oil production.

Which everyday products are essential for keeping hair clean, and how can they be incorporated into a daily routine?

Daily hair care plays a significant role in keeping your hair clean and healthy. In the morning, you can apply dry shampoo if necessary, brush your hair thoroughly with a natural bristle brush and use a small amount of serum or oil to manage frizz. Brushing your hair and applying a scalp scrub or deep conditioner if you plan to wash your hair can also be beneficial. 

Are there any styling or scalp care tools you’ve found that help with extending the time between washes?

There are various styling and scalp care tools that can help extend the time between washes. For example, using a scalp brush to stimulate circulation and remove debris, as well as natural bristle brushes to distribute natural oils from your roots to your strands, can help maintain scalp health and prolong the time between washes. Additionally, dry shampoo can absorb excess oil and add volume to your hair.

Why is scalp health crucial for extending the interval between hair washes, and what general practices do you recommend for keeping the scalp in good condition?

Scalp health is crucial for extending the interval between hair washes because a healthy scalp helps regulate sebum production, keeping the hair from becoming overly greasy or too dry. Maintaining a clean and stimulated scalp through regular cleansing and gentle massage can contribute to overall scalp health, consequently helping to keep your hair clean and fresh for longer periods. 

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