Wash your Hair Backwards
Lise
The idea of washing your hair backwards conjures up all sorts of strange images, doesn't it? Now, before you start thinking I am pulling your leg, let me explain. This concept has its roots in the Austrian born Founder of cosmetic company Aveda, Horst Rechelbacher who recommended 'washing your hair backwards'.
It's an intriging idea, but actually – once you think about it – it's quite logical (I'll get into the logical part in a minute). From the first time I tried it, my (fine, straight, short) hair really loved this method.
Here's a description of the process.
1. Apply Oil
Apply about a half a teaspoon of sweet almond or jojoba oil to dry hair and distribute as evenly as possible. Give your scalp a gentle massage. Leave the for a few minutes, then rinse.
2. Apply Conditioner
Now, apply a hair conditioner, allow to sit for a few minutes, then rinse.
3. Wash Hair
Wash your hair using your preferred shampoo. Rinse throughly.
4. Final Rinse
This is my 'little extra' addition to the equation. I've done this for years and it leaves my hair silky soft. Finish by rinsing your hair with a final rinse.
Here is a super easy option for final rinsing:
Make a mug of herbal infusion with your favorite herbs. Simply place herbs in a tea filter, pour boiled water over and allow to steep for a few minutes. Discard herbs and use liquid to pour over hair after shampooing. Herbs that are great for hair and scalp: rosemary, lavender, chamomile (great for light hair), rose (because it smells divine), mint (great for itchy scalp).
So Why Does This Method Work?
The application of oil has a twofold function: Oil attracts dirt, so the initial application helps to loosen dirt. The massage both calms and stimulates the scalp, assisting the oil to nourish both hair and scalp. The conditioner helps to 'loosen' the oil. The hair and scalp will absorb whatever nourishment they need from the oils and the shampoo removes the superfluous oil, taking the dirt with it. You may also find that your shampoo has a richer and more dense lather when you wash.
I have over the years tried leaving out step 2 and – for my hair, it works quite well to skip directly from oil to shampoo.
If this all sounds.. well, backwards, then all I can say is, give it a go and see if it works for you.
Do Tell
I'd love to hear from you if you decide to try this method.
PS. The book below shows you how to make your own wonderful shampoo bars.
