We’ve all heard different information on whether to wash our hair before visiting the salon to refresh our locks. This common question often leads to misinformation, but the short answer is that it really depends on the service you’re getting. This article will dive into the various salon services offered and discuss whether you should come with clean or unwashed hair.
Is it Good to Wash Hair Before Proceeding to A Salon Appointment?
When planning a trip to the salon, one common dilemma many face is whether to wash their hair before their appointment. This decision forms a critical part of your pre-salon routine and can heavily influence the outcome of your salon visit.
If you step into the salon with hair that’s been shampooed and conditioned within the last 24 – 48 hours, you’re likely in the best state according to most stylists. This timing allows your natural oils to lightly coat the hair, creating an ideal base for the haircut and any other hair-associated services you might be receiving.
Salon professionals often have differing opinions on the necessity of coming in with freshly washed hair. However, surveys among hairstylists reveal a preference for working with hair that isn’t overly dirty or filled with product build-up.
Although Twisty Treasure might consider oily hair as dirty, they are prepared to handle various hair conditions. Personal preferences do vary, and it’s important to listen to what your own stylist directs. For those who deal with specific issues like sensitive scalp health or unique hair texture, your stylist might adjust these general rules to better suit your individual needs.
So, while it might seem straightforward, considering these environmental factors and discussing them with your stylist can make a significant difference in the vibrancy and precision of your hairstyle, enhancing your overall salon experience.
Which are the Hair Services, Usually Hair Salon Offered?
Now let’s dive into the various services a typical hair salon provides and the general perspective on whether you should wash your hair or not.
Relaxing Shampoo and Conditioning
When visiting the salon for the first time, it’s ideal to arrive with clean hair. This allows your stylist to see your usual style and part, helping them better understand your hair needs. As first-time clients, you’ll be pampered with a relaxing shampoo and conditioner, enhancing your overall experience as we aim to serve you best.
Hot Oil Massage
For a hot oil treatment, it’s crucial to start by applying it to freshly washed hair. Hot oil works best on clean hair because this allows the oil to deeply penetrate the hair cuticle. If your hair is dirty and your follicles are blocked by sweat, debris, or product buildup, the oil will just sit on top of your hair.
Haircutting
When preparing for a haircut, it’s not necessary to wash your hair unless it’s loaded with dry shampoo or texture spray. In such cases, washing your hair can be helpful, making it easier to brush out. Otherwise, your stylist can manage without a pre-wash, especially if brushing out the products would be too challenging.
Occasional Hair Styling
It’s often preferable to visit the salon with clean, dry hair. While some hair types may seem to hold styles better on the second or third day after washing, stylists generally find it easier to work with hair that is free of oil and buildup. If extra texture is needed, your stylist can easily add this with texture spray.
Blow Dry and Other Straightening Procedures
If you’re planning a blowout or other straightening procedures at the salon, especially before a long weekend or a fun activity, rest assured that there’s no need to wash your hair before visiting. The salon will provide the full treatment—wash, dry, and style—ensuring you look your best before leaving. They handle everything, making your visit stress-free.
Bleaching and Hair Coloring
In the 1960s and 70s, bleaching and hair coloring involved harsh chemicals that could cause scalp irritation. Back then, clients were advised to come to the salon with dirty hair; the oil and buildup acted as a barrier to protect the scalp from these chemicals.
Today, hair color and highlights have evolved dramatically, with modern products no longer using such aggressive additives. This means build-up of any kind could prevent the color from penetrating the hair strands deeply, affecting the desired look. For optimal results, it’s best to arrive at the salon with clean hair.
Hair Perming and Waving
It’s not necessary to wash your hair the night before a perm. Your stylist will cleanse your hair with a specific shampoo right before the perming process to ensure proper product application.
If your hair is excessively dirty or has product buildup, a gentle wash without conditioner is advisable. Make sure to mention your wash to your stylist, so they can adjust their pre-perm cleansing routine accordingly.
Hair Straightening and Ironing
For hair straightening, clean hair straightens better. It’s best to start out with hair that’s been shampooed either on the day of or the night before your appointment. Using dry shampoo is also an option.
Dirty hair is likely to smell when compressed with an iron, and while excess oil is fine as it adds slip and helps protect the hair, cleaner hair generally yields better results.
Keratin Treatment and Extenso
It is recommended to wash your hair before a keratin treatment to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup that could interfere with the treatment. Using a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and skipping the conditioner prior to the treatment helps ensure the product penetrates the hair cuticle evenly and effectively.
Hair Extensions
If you’re getting extensions for the first time, it’s important to start with clean hair to avoid additional buildup and ensure your new look lasts longer. Washing and caring for thicker, longer hair requires added effort and time to get used to.
Whether you’re coming in for your initial extension appointment or having your extensions moved up, the same rule applies: always place clean extensions in clean hair.
Final Thoughts
The hair industry and its products have evolved dramatically, leading to healthier styling and coloring. This change means there’s no longer a need for your hair to remain unwashed. Unless your service includes shampoo, the rule of thumb is to visit the salon with clean hair. If you’re ever unsure, just ask your stylist for assistance.
FAQs
Do You Wash Your Hair Before Going to the Salon?
It’s a good idea to arrive at your hair appointment with clean hair. This helps your stylist to properly assess your hair and determine the best course of action, while also helping to avoid any potential scalp irritation from product build-up.
How Long Before an Appointment Should I Wash My Hair?
Recent surveys among hairstylists reveal that a majority prefer working with hair that’s been washed 24-48 hours prior to the appointment.
Do You Wash Your Hair Before Going to the Salon?
Wash your hair 1-2 days before your appointment. Avoid coming in with excessively dirty, sweaty, or oily hair. The idea that dirty hair “grabs color better” is a myth.
Is It Better to Have Clean or Dirty Hair for Highlights?
For hair color, having clean hair is essential for proper color formulation. Lightening is more predictable when your hair is free of oils and product buildup, allowing for even lightning throughout.
Dive into the world of curls with Farah, a celebrated curly hair expert whose passion and expertise have transformed her into a beacon for those seeking to embrace their natural hair texture. With a vibrant career spanning over a decade, Farah has dedicated herself to the science and art of curly hair, making her an authoritative voice in this niche. Her deep understanding of curly hair’s unique needs and challenges allows her to craft personalized care routines and styles that not only enhance the natural beauty of curls but also promote hair health.