Getting the most from a hair cleanser is less about the fancy bottle and more about technique: cleanse the scalp, not the lengths, use lukewarm (not hot) water, choose a gentle sulphate-free formula for your hair type, and always condition the mid-lengths and ends afterwards. Do that and even ordinary hair looks brighter and healthier. Here is the full method, plus what to look for and what to avoid.

What a hair cleanser does

A cleanser (shampoo or a gentler "co-wash" or cleansing conditioner) lifts away sweat, excess oil, dead skin and product build-up from the scalp and hair. The best ones do this without stripping the natural oils that keep hair supple, which is why formula and technique both matter. A clean, balanced scalp is the foundation of healthy-looking hair.

How to wash your hair, step by step

1. Choose the right cleanser

Match it to your hair: gentle and sulphate-free for most, extra-moisturising for dry or curly hair, lightweight for fine or oily hair, clarifying (occasionally) for heavy build-up.

2. Wet thoroughly with lukewarm water

Lukewarm water loosens oil and build-up. Very hot water is drying, avoid it.

3. Focus the cleanser on your scalp

Emulsify a small amount in your palms, then massage into the scalp with fingertips (not nails) in small circles. This is where oil and build-up collect.

4. Let the lengths clean themselves

As you rinse, the run-off gently cleanses the mid-lengths and ends, you rarely need to scrub them directly, which protects them from dryness.

5. Rinse fully

Rinse until the water runs clear, leftover product dulls hair and can irritate the scalp.

6. Condition the lengths

Apply conditioner from mid-length to ends (not the scalp if you are prone to greasiness), leave a minute, then rinse.

7. Cool rinse and gentle drying

A cool final rinse helps seal the cuticle for shine. Squeeze, do not rub, with a microfibre towel.

How often should you wash?

It depends on your hair and scalp: oily scalps may need washing every day or two with a gentle formula; dry, textured or curly hair often does well with two to three washes a week. Watch how your hair behaves and adjust, there is no universal rule.

Ingredients worth looking for

Gentle, well-formulated cleansers often include conditioning and scalp-friendly ingredients such as biotin, panthenol, argan oil, niacinamide, allantoin and mild plant proteins, these support soft, comfortable, healthy-looking hair (cosmetic benefits, not medical claims).

Grow Me Shampoo

A gentle, sulphate-free cleanser with biotin, argan oil, rosemary and caffeine, cleans without stripping natural oils, for soft, full-looking hair. A cosmetic support, not a medical treatment.

View Grow Me

Watermans is a UK family business that has sold over 5 million bottles since 2012. The range is vegan and cruelty-free.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I wash my hair?

Oily hair: every day or two with a gentle formula. Dry or curly hair: two to three times a week. Adjust to how your hair feels.

Can I wash my hair every day?

Yes, if you use a gentle, sulphate-free cleanser so you are not stripping natural oils. Watch for dryness and ease off if needed.

Sulphate-free or not?

Sulphate-free is gentler and better for most people, especially dry, curly or colour-treated hair, as it cleans without stripping.

Do I need conditioner after every wash?

Usually yes, on the mid-lengths and ends, to replace moisture and keep hair manageable. Fine hair may prefer a lightweight formula.

My scalp is sore after washing, what should I do?

Switch to a gentler, fragrance-light, sulphate-free cleanser with soothing ingredients, and see a pharmacist or GP if irritation persists.

A good wash is simple: gentle formula, scalp-focused cleansing, lukewarm water, thorough rinse, and conditioner on the ends. Skip the harsh DIY shortcuts and let your hair tell you how often it needs washing. For keeping colour vibrant while you cleanse, see our guide to caring for dyed hair.