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5 TIPS FOR USING NEW WASH

Expert tips for using New Wash straight from Hairstory educator, Wes Sharpton.

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Hairstory's lead educator Wes Sharpton walks viewers through the five essential steps for using New Wash, the detergent-free hair cleansing cream that replaces both shampoo and conditioner. From finding the right amount to mastering a thorough rinse with a scalp brush, Sharpton explains how this one-step hair wash cleans without stripping, conditions without buildup, and why a brief transition period is completely normal. This tutorial is ideal for anyone new to detergent-free hair care or troubleshooting their first few washes.

How to Wash Your Hair with New Wash by Hairstory

A five-step guide to correctly using New Wash, the detergent-free cleansing cream that replaces shampoo and conditioner in a single step.

1

Find your perfect amount

Think about the amount of shampoo and conditioner you normally use and combine that into one total amount — that is your starting quantity for New Wash. Adjust slightly more or less over subsequent washes until you find exactly what your scalp and hair need.

Pro Tip: Because New Wash replaces both shampoo and conditioner, it requires more product than shampoo alone. Don't be afraid to use a generous amount at first.
2

Splash water to emulsify

After applying New Wash to your hair, splash a small amount of water into it. This creates a smooth, milky consistency that helps the cleansing cream spread evenly and grab onto dirt and excess oil like a magnet, drawing out grime without stripping your hair dry.

3

Massage into scalp and hair

Work New Wash thoroughly into your scalp and through your hair. Use a scalp brush to really get into every area — New Wash can only cleanse what it touches, so make sure it reaches your entire scalp. Remember, it will not lather like a traditional shampoo because it is free of harsh foaming detergents.

4

Rinse thoroughly

Rinse New Wash out completely with water. This is not a quick rinse — spend as much time rinsing as you did working it in. Use the scalp brush again during rinsing to make sure every spot is reached and no residue is left behind.

Pro Tip: Any residue left behind can make hair feel greasy. If your hair doesn't feel clean after washing, rinsing more thoroughly usually solves the problem.
5

Skip conditioner and trust the transition

There is no need for a separate conditioner, detangler, or hair mask — New Wash conditions as it cleans, nourishing your scalp's barrier while rinsing away buildup. During your first few washes, you may notice some light flaking or excess oil around the scalp. This is a normal transition period as your scalp adjusts to detergent-free care, and hair will become softer and healthier over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much New Wash should I use?
    Start by combining the amount of shampoo and conditioner you would normally use — that total volume is your starting point for New Wash. Adjust up or down from there over your next few washes until you find what your scalp and hair need.
  • Why doesn't New Wash lather like shampoo?
    New Wash is a detergent-free cleansing cream, so it does not contain the harsh foaming agents found in traditional shampoos. Instead of lathering, it works by drawing dirt and excess oil away from the hair and scalp without stripping moisture.
  • Do I still need conditioner if I use New Wash?
    No. New Wash conditions as it cleans, replacing shampoo, conditioner, detangler, and hair masks in a single step. It rinses away dirt, oil, and buildup while nourishing your scalp's barrier.
  • Why does my hair feel greasy after using New Wash?
    Greasiness after using New Wash is usually caused by not rinsing thoroughly enough. Because it doesn't lather, New Wash requires a more thorough rinse than traditional shampoo. Use a scalp brush during rinsing to make sure no residue is left behind.
  • Is it normal to experience flaking when switching to New Wash?
    Yes. During the first few uses, some people experience light flaking or a bit of excess oil around the scalp. This is a normal transition period as your scalp adjusts to life without harsh detergents. Over time, hair typically becomes softer, smoother, and healthier.
  • Why do I need to add water to New Wash before massaging it in?
    Splashing water into New Wash creates a smooth, milky consistency that helps the cleansing cream emulsify and spread evenly through the hair. This allows it to grab onto dirt and excess oil more effectively, working like a magnet to draw out grime.
  • How long does the transition period last when switching to detergent-free hair care?
    The transition period varies by individual, but some light flaking or excess oil around the scalp is common during the first few washes. As your scalp adjusts to sulfate-free hair care, these symptoms subside and hair becomes noticeably softer and healthier.