I Tried Reverse Washing My Hair... Should You?

by BR Kellie

I don't know whether it's just another part of the ageing process or the low-level stress of living in a pandemic for two years and counting, but over the last while I've noticed a most definite thinning of my hair, to the point where if I pull it back into a ponytail I look like I'm sporting rats tails rather than full, lush locks, which is why when I read about the concept of reverse washing I was intrigued. So what it reverse washing? How does one do it? And does it work? I found out...

What Is Reverse Washing?

Reverse washing is quite simply reversing the standard hair washing process - so conditioning first, shampooing second. The idea behind reverse washing is that the conditioner will better infuse your hair, helping to hydrate and nourish, but by shampooing second the conditioner is better rinsed out, therefore not clinging to your strands giving them a lank and lifeless look.

Is It For Everyone?

If you've thick and curly hair, or are happy with your hair washing process and see no need to change things up, you can skip the reverse wash. However if you feel your hair does need a little more oomph, there's absolutely no reason not to give it a go.

The Process

First, wet your hair, then add conditioner into the lengths of your hair (avoid the top of the scalp). Leave it in for a few minutes before lightly rinsing it out. Next, grab your shampoo, squirt out a small amount, then massage it into your scalp area. Finally, rinse it out, and you're done. Easy as!

The hardest part of reverse washing for me was getting out of my usual routine. The first few times I reached straight for the shampoo bottle and had to conciously remind myself that I wasn't doing things the usual way. Who knew the shower had the power to turn you into a mindless body and hair washing zombie!?

The Result

Did I end up with 90s supermodel hair? Well, no. BUT, I did see a difference. My hair appeared to be fuller, fluffier (but not in a frizzy way) and the rats tails were not to be seen.

The change was great enough that I've been reverse washing my hair ever since, and unless my hair magically thickens up once more, I will continue to do so.

So, have you tried reverse hair washing? If so, did you see results? If not, are you keen to give it a go? And what are your tips and tricks to creating the appearance of fuller hair? Get chatting below!