How To Co-Washing Your Hair Before Installing?

Co-washing is a method of cleansing your hair with a conditioner instead of a shampoo. Co-washing can help moisturize, soften, and detangle your hair, especially if you have curly, kinky, or dry hair. Co-washing can also benefit your hair extensions, as it can add luster, shine, and bounce to them. Co-washing your hair and extensions before installing them can help you achieve a flawless and natural-looking protective style. Here are some steps to follow to co-wash your hair before installing:

1. Choose a moisturizing conditioner

The first step to co-wash your hair is to choose a moisturizing conditioner that is suitable for your hair type and texture. You should avoid conditioners that contain sulfates, silicones, parabens, or mineral oils, as they can dry out or weigh down your hair. You should also look for conditioners that contain natural ingredients, such as aloe vera, shea butter, coconut oil, or honey, as they can nourish and hydrate your hair.

2. Detangle your hair and extensions

Before you wet your hair and extensions, you should detangle them with a wide-tooth comb or a Denman brush. This will help you avoid knots and tangles during the co-washing process. You should start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, gently removing any snags or shed hairs.

3. Wet your hair and extensions with warm water

The next step is to wet your hair and extensions with warm water. Warm water can help open up the cuticles of your hair and extensions, allowing the conditioner to penetrate better. You should saturate your hair and extensions thoroughly, making sure there is no dry spot left.

4. Apply the conditioner to your hair and extensions

After wetting your hair and extensions, you should apply the conditioner to them generously. You should massage the conditioner into your scalp, around your hairline, and along the length of your hair. You should also apply the conditioner to your extensions, focusing on the ends where they tend to be drier. You should add water as you go to help distribute the product evenly.

5. Leave the conditioner on for 10-15 minutes

Once you have applied the conditioner to your hair and extensions, you should leave it on for 10-15 minutes. This will give the conditioner enough time to moisturize and condition your hair and extensions. You can use a plastic shower cap to cover your hair and extensions while you wait.

6. Rinse out the conditioner with cold water

After 10-15 minutes, you should rinse out the conditioner with cold water. Cold water can help seal the cuticles of your hair and extensions, locking in the moisture and making them smoother and shinier. You should rinse thoroughly until there is no residue left.

7. Dry your hair and extensions with a t-shirt or a microfiber towel

The final step is to dry your hair and extensions with a t-shirt or a microfiber towel. You should avoid using a regular towel, as it can cause frizz and breakage. You should gently squeeze out the excess water from your hair and extensions, then wrap them in a t-shirt or a microfiber towel for 10-20 minutes. You can also let them air dry on a wig stand or a mannequin head.

By following these steps, you can co-wash your hair before installing it and enjoy the benefits of co-washing. Co-washing can help you keep your hair and extensions healthy, hydrated, and manageable throughout your protective style.