There is a new trend called CO Hair Washing Method which means Conditioner Only washing. Living in South Florida one might try this method to help reduce frizz. Along with our great weather comes humidity which brings frizzy, uncooperative hair. Most shampoos contain harsh, drying sulfates that are extremely damaging for hair (ammonium laureth sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, etc.). So why are they in there you ask?, because that is the ingredient that makes the shampoo foam. We are used to seeing bubbles and it makes us feel cleaner. The CO method uses conditioner, or another replacement such as baking soda in place of shampoo that the followers believe will clean without stripping your hair of moisture. If you want to give this method a try here are the steps.
- Clarify the hair of all products that can only be removed with shampoo. Use a sulfate shampoo, and get a trim.
- Wet your hair.
- Now "wash" with your replacement. Non oily-dry hair distribute conditioner on your scalp and massage in. This grabs onto the dirt. Oily hair use an apple cider or lemon juice rinse. Combine 1 TBS vinegar with one cup water and comb through hair.
- Rinse thoroughly, if your hair smells like vinegar use less vinegar and more water next time.
- Use a moisturizing conditioner throughout.
- Untangle with a comb always starting at the bottom and let the conditioner sit 5 minutes.
- The final rinse should be with cold water this helps decrease frizz and adds shine.
There will be an adjustment period (2-4 weeks) as your hair adjusts.
What your mom told you about brushing your hair IS TRUE. It keeps the hair clean and free of dust and debris, so give it a thorough brushing with a natural bristle brush, such as boar bristles. A bonus is that this will also help distribute the scalps natural oils throughout the hair which helps keep it conditioned, healthy and glossy.
Although the CO method does work I don't feel it is practical, especially if we color and exercise. It is true we DEFINITELY shampoo to frequently. If you washed your hair in the morning went to work in an air conditioned office, ate dinner and went to sleep, then washing again the next day is over kill. If you stopped at the gym on the way home that's a different story. Good news, most professional hair care lines make sulfate free shampoo. You will have to get used to no lather but your hair will feel and smell clean. Follow up with conditioner as always.
It's a personal choice based on your hair type and lifestyle.
Comments