You don't typically shampoo your hair with conditioner. Shampoo and conditioner are used for different purposes and in a specific order within a hair washing routine. The reference video, "How To: Apply SHAMPOO & CONDITION HAIR Correctly," implies that shampoo is applied before conditioner.
Understanding the Roles of Shampoo and Conditioner
To understand why you don't shampoo with conditioner, it's helpful to know each product's role:
- Shampoo: Cleanses the scalp and hair by removing dirt, oil, and product buildup.
- Conditioner: Smoothes the hair cuticle, adds moisture, and helps detangle.
Step-by-Step Hair Washing Routine
The standard way to wash hair involves using shampoo first, followed by conditioner. Here’s how it’s generally done:
- Wet Hair: Thoroughly wet your hair with lukewarm water.
- Apply Shampoo: Dispense a small amount of shampoo into your palm.
- Massage the shampoo into your scalp, focusing on the roots.
- Gently work the lather through the lengths of your hair.
- Rinse: Rinse the shampoo out completely using lukewarm water.
- Apply Conditioner: Apply conditioner, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, avoiding the scalp.
- According to the reference, apply serum after conditioning by taking a small amount and applying to your mid-lengths and ends only. The reference uses a Moroccan oil serum.
- Wait: Allow the conditioner to sit for a few minutes (as directed on the product label).
- Rinse: Rinse the conditioner out thoroughly with lukewarm water.
Why You Don't Combine Shampoo and Conditioner
- Different Actions: Shampoo and conditioner have opposite actions. Shampoo cleans while conditioner adds moisture. Combining them would prevent each from functioning effectively.
- Residue Buildup: Trying to use a single product that both cleans and conditions would likely leave residues that could weigh down your hair or make it appear dull.
Important Points
- Correct Order: Always use shampoo before conditioner.
- Product Use: Follow the instructions on your shampoo and conditioner labels for optimal results.
- Serum: Apply serum after washing and conditioning. The reference applies serum to the mid-lengths and ends only.
