Wash day, step by step

Wash day has a reputation for taking forever. It doesn’t have to. Once you know the order, it becomes a ritual: some music, a good conditioner, and an hour that belongs to you.

Before you start

Have everything within reach: cleanser, conditioner, leave-in, styler, a wide-tooth comb, clips, and a T-shirt or microfibre towel. Wet curls hate waiting while you look for things.

The routine

How often?

There’s no single right rhythm, and this is only about shampooing your hair, not about showering. Wavy hair often feels best washed every two or three days. Curly and coily hair usually likes a few days to a week between washes, because it dries out faster. In between, a quick rinse or a refresh keeps everything fresh. Let your scalp and ends guide you: a comfortable scalp and soft ends mean your rhythm is working.

After wash day

The work is done; now protect it. A loose pineapple and a silk scarf at night can help your curls last, so day two looks closer to day one. On day two or three, a quick refresh brings everything back.