Washing your hair is something you routinely do on a daily basis. You probably don’t think much about it or of it. You just wake up, get in the shower, throw some shampoo in your hair followed by some conditioner, and do all the other things you usually do. But washing your hair the proper way is one of the most crucial factors when it comes to your hair’s healthy.

That’s how pretty much hair care starts: when you wash it. Washing your hair is something you don’t think much about because it’s such a normal, daily thing to do. Unfortunately, washing your hair every day can do a lot of damage to the hair follicles. It strips the hair of its natural oils and leaves it dry and weak.

Although it may be hard for you not to wash your hair every day because it’s such a habit, you actually do your hair a big favor. For oily hair, washing your hair every other day is perfect. Make sure you use a clarifying shampoo to get rid of all the gunk.

For those with thicker hair, washing your hair every day will do major damage to your hair. Every other day and even every other two days is ideal because the hair follicles are thick and strong, and washing them constantly will only weaken them.

Another important thing to remember when washing your hair is not to pull on your strands. Your hair isn’t some dark cave you have to scrub: it’s very sensitive, so you have to be careful how you handle it. Instead of putting all your hair on top of your head and scrubbing like a madwoman, try gently massaging your scalp in circular motions. This will also help you if your hair gets tangled easy.

Don’t forget to only apply conditioner to your ends. If you apply it to your entire scalp, it will weigh your hair down and make it oily.

When you towel dry your hair make sure you’re not vigorously rubbing the towel against your hair as this causes statics and can rip off your strands. Instead, just pat your hair using the towel.