What is Co-Washing?

So I am ever searching for the perfect natural alternative to conventional shampoos, because lets face it traditional shampoo is amazing  at the moment I can find nothing that matches up to its cleaning properties.

The downside to traditional shampoos is that you will  find that they are very drying and irritating to the scalp. This can cause a whole host of problems such as dandruff ,contact dermatitis and dry brittle hair that knots and tangles quickly.

Shampoo is a harsh cleaning agent due to an ingredient called Sodium Laureth Sulfate. This is one of the most common ingredients in your Drug Store shampoo.

So while researching I came across a method called Co-washing, this is where you wash your hair with conditioners only. This method keeps the moisture and natural oils in your hair.

How to co-wash

Wash your hair as normal, you will not get a lather as you are using a conditioner instead, just work well into your scalp with the tips of your fingers, make sure you rinse your hair really well. Just use a little more conditioner than you would normally use.

 I have not tested this out yet but in theory it sounds like a pretty good idea. I like the idea that it preserves the natural oils in your hair. Other benefits is that it helps reduce knots and tangles and keeps your scalp hydrated. Using a natural organic conditioner may give you a better result and you will cutting back on the chemicals that are found in conventional products.

I will try this and give you an update if I end up with soft hair or lank locks.


IMPORTANT UPDATE

 Some people have have experienced excess shedding from co- washing I cannot find any evidence on this, just what some people have claimed. My conclusion would be that depending on what conditioners you use , the type of hair you have and any other medical issues. Other factors to consider is that the conditioner coats the hair weighting it down (possibly silicone based conditioners)  or the conditioner blocks the hair follicles at the roots.