Shampoo is a staple in our bathroom for cleaning and potentially treating the scalp and hair. We tend to worry more about the type of shampoo to use than the amount to apply. However, this is a common mistake related to its use. Indeed, applying an excessive or insufficient amount of shampoo may, over time, harm the health of your hair and scalp. Here is the sufficient amount of product to use to preserve the beauty and health of your hair.
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Shampoo: How much should you apply?
Summary
- Definition and utility of a shampoo
- What quantity of shampoo for your hair?
- How to properly wash your hair?
Published September 6, 2021,
updated on February 20, 2024,
by
Stéphanie, PhD, Doctorate in Life and Health Sciences
—
3 min read
Definition and utility of a shampoo.
The shampoo is a cleansing product specifically designed for hair and the scalp. It is available for all hair types: normal, oily, dry, etc... and even for coloured, curly or frizzy hair. Available in liquid, cream or solid form, it transforms into foam as soon as it comes into contact with water. Its primary function is to cleanse the scalp and hair, that is, to remove dust and agglomerated pollution particles, residues of styling products (gel, hairspray, etc...) and cellular debris from scalp desquamation, and to also eliminate excess sebum and sweat. Some shampoos on the market are also said to be treatment shampoos. They, for example, help to get rid of dandruff, soothe an irritated scalp, limit hair loss or revive hair colour.
What quantity of shampoo for your hair?
Applying the correct amount of shampoo to your hair is not an easy task. If you do not apply enough, traces of dirt, grease, and styling product residues will persist, leading to issues such as dandruff and scalp itchiness. Conversely, applying too much, under the misconception that it equates to effectiveness and cleanliness, can also have consequences. This primarily exposes you to the risk of making the product difficult to rinse out. The result: poorly rinsed shampoo can make your hair heavy, sticky, dull, dry it out, and irritate your scalp.
To determine the amount of shampoo required for optimal washing, two parameters must be taken into account: the quantity and type of hair. Indeed, depending on these criteria, you will not need the same amount of product to clean your hair. For example, if you have fine hair, the ideal amount of shampoo is approximately one spoonful of coffee. If your hair is thick, you may need to increase the dose. However, if you feel that the amount of product spread is not enough because it does not lather enough, add more water to emulsify properly rather than more product.
How to properly wash your hair?
When washing your hair, start by thoroughly wetting your hair with warm water. Then take the necessary amount of product in the palm of your hand and lightly emulsify it by rubbing your hands together. Gently massage your scalp with your fingertips in small circular motions, which will help to effectively dislodge dirt and sebum, and oxygenate your scalp. However, avoid rubbing too hard as you risk irritating your scalp. This could lead to an overproduction of sebum and your hair becoming greasy very quickly. Moreover, during shampooing, avoid rubbing your lengths, as this could eventually damage them. Indeed, by crumpling the hair fibre, you risk opening the cuticles, which will significantly dry out your hair. Finally, take the time to meticulously rinse your hair to ensure that all product residue is removed.
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