Many people aim to grow thick, luscious hair, but it often feels far out of reach and unattainable.
Individuals often turn to changing their diet or trying different products, but how they wash their hair significantly affects hair growth.
Trichologist at Philip Kingsley Anabel Kingsley spoke exclusively to GB News about the "correct way to wash hair" for noticeable growth.
Anabel said: "Your hair and scalp need to be clean and healthy to produce optimal hair growth, and this also helps prevent scalp issues."
Women should focus on thoroughly cleansing their scalp when shampooingGETTYTo cleanse your hair, "wet it fully and clean the scalp thoroughly for two minutes with a targeted shampoo".
Anabel said: "Rinse the shampoo with water and then apply a conditioner to the ends before rinsing again.
"Don't scrub your hair when you shampoo or pile it on your head; you will only tangle it. Let the suds run down the lengths of your hair, as this is enough to remove daily dirt."
Your shampoo should "only focus on cleaning the scalp". You only "need to use a 50p piece size of shampoo and massage gently, adding more water to increase the lather".
A study published in the National Library of Medicine explained the importance of a clean scalp for hair growth.
It said: "There is a wealth of observational data on specific dermatological conditions of the scalp providing evidence for the role of the scalp condition in supporting healthy hair production.
"Oxidative stress, the inability of the body to sufficiently counteract the sources of oxidation, is prevalent in many skin conditions, including normal skin ageing.
"On the scalp, the hair appears to be impacted before emergence, and oxidative stress plays a role in premature hair loss."
The hair expert recommended treating your hair and scalp the same way you treat your face and skin, as it "gets just as dirty".
She said: "Your scalp is also a living tissue; it sweats, produces oils and sheds skin cells. You wouldn't leave more than three days between washing your face, and you likely wouldn't wear the same outfit more than a few times before washing it – apply the same thinking to your hair and scalp."
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Anabel advised treating your hair and scalp the same way you treat your face
GETTYFocus on washing your hair consistently to "prevent dirt from building up and dead skin cells", which hinders hair growth.
Another study published in the National Library of Medicine explained the importance of washing hair often.
It noted: "Overall satisfaction with hair and scalp condition is achieved when washing five to six times weekly."
Anabel encouraged including more protein and a mix of food groups in your diet for "healthy growth"
The trichologist explained: "Even small dietary inadequacies can impact hair, so we should eat three balanced meals a day containing proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats and a variety of vitamins and minerals."
