We’ve been washing our hair by ourselves since we were, what, 5? Give or take a few years? So you’d think we’d have it down by now, huh? Contrary to the popular belief that you can’t really screw up shampoo, there are actually a few common mistakes that you could be making when you wash your hair.

ONLY SHAMPOOING ONCE

Did you know, that no matter what shampoo you’re using, you’re always supposed to shampoo twice? The first wash breaks down all of the dirt, debris, build-up, etc. and the second wash actually cleanses it all away. Your first wash won’t lather, your second wash should (if it doesn’t, keep shampooing until it does lather).

NOT EMULSIFYING

Emulsifying activates the shampoo! Emulsify the shampoo by rubbing your hands together until they turn white, then apply the product to your hair.

LATHERING YOUR ENDS

Shampooing your ends can cause damage (especially if you’re using friction), focus on your scalp and allow the shampoo to run through your ends as you rinse.

USING THE WRONG SHAMPOO

Everyone’s hair and scalp are different and there isn’t a one-size-fits-all shampoo, you should be using a shampoo that addresses your hair/scalp issues (ex: dry, oily, etc.).

NOT SHAKING WELL

If your products are naturally-based, like mine are, then they probably separate if they’re just sitting on a shelf (think of the orange juice sitting in your fridge), make sure to shake your shampoo well!