Naturally curly hair is dryer than all other hair textures.

The curls and coils prevent natural oils from traveling down the hair shaft to keep it nourished and hydrated. In an attempt to combat dryness, co-washing became popular in the curl community.

If you want to learn how to incorporate a co-wash into your hair regimen, check out these tips. 

What is co-washing?

Co-wash or "conditioner washing" is when you cleanse your hair using a specially formulated cream cleanser. A co-wash removes build up and cleanse the hair without the lathering of harsh sulfates and parabens, typically found in shampoo. 

The Volume conditioner uses bentonite clay to deeply clean the scalp, remove dead skin cells and other toxins. It also strengthens the hair and prevents hair loss by penetrating the hair shaft with nutrients and essential amino acids. 

What are the benefits?

Co-washing helps retain moisture in the hair which leads to better curl definition, less frizz and more manageability. 

If you color your hair, co-washing can also help maintain your color. Frequent shampooing can strip hair color causing it to fade quickly. A co-wash will keep your color looking fresh and vibrant for longer. 

What are the drawbacks?

The number one risk of co-washing is product buildup. Shampoos contain ingredients that are strong enough to break down heavy hair products, dirt and oil that builds up on the hair and scalp. If left untreated, product build up can lead to dryness, flaking and hair breakage. 

Co-washing is not recommended for people who suffer from scalp conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, or seborrheic dermatitis. These conditions can actually worsen because co-wash products are not enough to break down flakes and excessive oil. This can result in scalp itchiness and irritation. 
 

How to co-wash curly hair

How often you co-wash your hair is a matter of preference. It really depends on your own hair's specific needs.

If you are live an active lifestyle and sweat a lot, I recommend co-washing once a week in between wash days to refresh your hair. It's a good idea to counteract this with a clarifying shampoo such as the Volume shampoo once a week to remove build up from the hair and scalp. 

• Scrub your scalp - When you co-wash your curly hair you want to make sure to really spend a few minutes thoroughly massaging the scalp. Friction form your finger pads will help loosen any dirt and oil to really get your scalp clean.

• Double wash -  Cleanse and repeat. The first cleanse is what removes dirt, toxins and pollution from the hair and the second hydrates.

• Detangle to distribute - Use this time to finger detangle your hair in the shower while you apply your co-wash. You can also use a wide tooth comb to detangle. Doing so helps distribute the co-wash to evenly saturate and moisturize your hair.