Hair Cleansing Techniques

By Made2Flourish

When it comes to hair care, one size doesn’t fit all. Straight hair and curly hair have different structures, needs, and challenges so the way you wash them should reflect that. Understanding your hair type and washing it the right way can make the difference between dry, frizzy strands and soft, healthy locks that truly flourish.

Why Washing Technique Matters

Hair cleansing isn’t just about getting rid of dirt and oil. It’s also about preparing your hair for moisture retention, strengthening it against breakage, and keeping your scalp balanced. Over-washing or improper techniques can strip away natural oils, while under-washing can lead to buildup that blocks moisture and irritates the scalp.

 Straight Hair

Straight hair tends to get oily faster because natural oils travel easily down the smooth hair shaft. The key is to cleanse without weighing the hair down.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Detangle Before Washing
   Use a wide-tooth comb or brush to remove tangles before getting your hair wet. This reduces breakage when your hair is more fragile during washing.

2. Choose the Right Shampoo
   Look for a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo if your hair is fine or color-treated. Clarifying shampoos can be used once a week to remove buildup.

3. Focus on the Scalp
   Apply shampoo to your scalp, not the ends. Gently massage with your fingertips (not nails) to lift dirt and oil. Let the shampoo naturally cleanse the lengths as it rinses down.

4. Condition Wisely
   Use a lightweight conditioner, focusing only on the mid-lengths to ends. Too much conditioner on the scalp can make straight hair greasy.

5. Rinse with Cool Water
   A cool rinse helps seal the cuticle for extra shine.

 Curly Hair

Curly hair is naturally drier because oils from the scalp have a harder time traveling down the twists and turns of each strand. This means it needs a gentler, more hydrating approach.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Pre-Poo Treatment
   Before shampooing, apply a nourishing oil like Made2Flourish Babassu + Bloom Growth Oil to protect curls from drying out during washing.

2. Detangle While Wet and Conditioned
   Use a wide-tooth comb to gently detangle curls when they are slippery with conditioner or a pre-wash treatment.

3. Co-Wash or Gentle Shampoo
   Many curlies benefit from co-washing (using conditioner to cleanse) between shampoo days. When using shampoo, choose a moisturizing, sulfate-free formula.

4. Cleanse the Scalp First
   Drench hair with water. Massage your scalp in circular motions to remove buildup and stimulate circulation. Avoid rough scrubbing, which can cause frizz and breakage.

5. Double Condition
   After rinsing out shampoo, apply a rich conditioner from roots to tips. For extra moisture, follow with Made2Flourish Versatile Deep Conditioner as a Leave-In

6. Rinse with Cool Water
   Helps lock in moisture and define curls.

7. Dry with Care Avoid rough towels, opt for a microfiber towel or cotton T-shirt.  

Final Word
Your washing routine sets the foundation for healthy, vibrant hair. Whether your strands fall straight and sleek or curl into springy coils, using the right techniques and the right products will help your hair look its best.

Made2Flourish offers hair care solutions tailored to protect, nourish, and help every strand thrive.