Having healthy and shiny hair requires more than using the right shampoo and hair mask, as it also has something to do with the way it is washed. One often confusing issue is whether hair must be washed with hot or cold water, and the answers come from experts.
The case against hot water
As per a report by the Indian Express, Vandana Punjabi, consultant dermatologist, said that hot water is very damaging too. “Even the cuticles of the hair get damaged with hot water, making them break open. Cold water, on the other hand, is best for the hair because it does not damage the cuticles in any way and instead maintains them,” she says. However, cold water is very protective for the cuticles, keeping them healthy and in good shape. For people who do not like cold water, the next best option would be warm water, but not hot water.
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Why does warm water have its place?
According to the report by The Indian Express, Dr Akanksha Sanghvi, an aesthetic dermatologist, said that it has a slightly different perspective on this issue. According to her views: " Hair must be washed with hot water, to begin with, as hot or warm water opens the cuticle and enables the shampoo to effectively clean up grime and scalp build-up. However, it is important to use cold or normal temperature water after shampoo to wash off the conditioner or hair masque as it helps close the cuticles, trap the moisture within the hair shafts, reduce frizz, and give your hair a good lustre."
Hair type & washing frequency
Oily Hair: Can be shampooed every day with pH-balanced shampoo. Only the ends should be applied with conditioner.
Frizzy Hair: Use sulfate-free shampoo. Cleanse only twice a week. This will prevent frizz. Apply a hair masque that contains natural butter and plant extracts.
Curly Hair: Needs shampooing twice to three times a week. Avoid harsh shampooing. Co-washing is advisable for this hair type to retain moisture. Use a curl cream and/or a leave-in conditioner that contains shea butter and/or cocoa butter.
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Hair care dos & don'ts
Do: Brush before washing, and shampoo at least twice a week, with a scalp scrubber, and then with a microfiber towel to dry with.
Don’t: Don’t use harsh shampoos, tie damp hair, scratch the scalp, rub the hair with a towel, and the like.
Avoid this common mistake
Wet hair combing with a fine-tooth comb can lead to hair breakage. This is because the comb irritates the scalp and, in the process, tears the hair. To detangle wet hair, you can use the wide-tooth comb or detangler brush while applying conditioner or masque. Adherence to these simple measures will help you get healthier and shinier hair.
