Double Shampooing 101: Should You Shampoo Twice?

If you’ve ever wondered whether double shampooing could elevate your hair care, you’re not alone. This growing trend is also known as twice shampooing, but what exactly is it? And is it worth adding to your routine? Let’s dive into the benefits of shampooing your hair twice and how it works.

As the name implies, double shampooing is the practice of applying shampoo twice during a single wash session. The first wash is intended to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup, while the second wash allows the active ingredients to deeply penetrate and nourish the hair and scalp. Think of it as a bonus step to ensure your hair gets thoroughly clean.

For many, double shampooing can improve the overall appearance and health of both their hair and scalp. However, it depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have oily hair, use heavy styling products, or don’t wash your hair very often, the benefits of shampooing twice can be significant. If you have very dry hair, fine hair, or use shampoo daily, it’s probably best to shampoo just once with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo when you shower. One study found that washing more often was not only good for the participant’s hair but also preferred.

You may have seen instructions to “rinse and repeat” on the back of a shampoo bottle, but is it just a suggestion or a requirement? Dermatologists suggest that double shampooing can effectively remove buildup of oil, dirt, sweat, and product residue from the scalp and hair.The main benefits of double shampooing include:

• More Suds: The bubbles that form when you shampoo help clear away oils so your hair and scalp feel clean. Excess scalp oils inhibit bubbles from forming, so washing twice helps clear away more unwanted gunk.
• Better Cleanse: The first wash removes surface impurities, while the second wash ensures deeper cleaning.
• Healthier Scalp: Thoroughly cleansing your hair and scalp when you shampoo prevents buildup, which reduces itchiness, flakiness or irritation.
• Improved Results: After double shampooing, hair feels lighter, looks shinier, and is better prepped for conditioning and styling.

Experiment with the technique 1-2 times a week to see how your hair responds. If you notice improved cleanliness and volume without excessive dryness, it might be worth continuing! Adjust your frequency accordingly based on your hair’s texture and needs.

The potential benefits of double shampooing make it a great addition to certain hair care routines, especially for those dealing with buildup or excess oil. And by understanding what double shampooing does, you can decide if it’s right for you. Who knows, a few more minutes in the shower could make a world of difference! For more Tips & Tricks based on your unique HairCode, visit our blog.

Dealing with oily strands? Take the HairCode quiz to learn more about your hair type, and how you can best care for it.