Natural hair wearers know that shampooing too often can cause excess dryness and damage because of the harsh chemicals and detergents in certain shampoos. Also, the sudsing and rubbing could also damage the hair. But all the styling creams and lotion used to keep curly, kinky or relaxed hair coiffed, soft and frizz-free create build up that must be removed.
To combat these issues, and as a compromise, some opt to “co-wash” which is “conditioner-only washing.”
It requires skipping shampoo and using a conditioner only, daily or a weekly washer, whichever works. The result is something between squeaky-clean and second-day hair—that is, smoother, softer, and easier to manage
Brands now sell them where before people just used a conditioner meant to be washed out.
When using a cleansing conditioner on curly hair, saturate and detangle your hair and divide your head into four-to-six sections.
Place the co-wash formula on the tips of your fingers and work it into the scalp area of the first section.
Massage thoroughly into the scalp and then work the product through the midlengths and ends.
Complete the remaining sections, rinse and style as usual. The technique is nearly similar for relaxed hair.
Start by saturating your hair in the shower. Then apply the cleansing conditioner to your scalp and gently massage for about 3 to 5 minutes, focusing on the new growth. Proceed with your shower, detangle with a wide-tooth comb, rinse with lukewarm water and style.
h/t Matrix
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