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Protect lengths during a frequent wash

Condition wet mids and ends first, rinse fully, then shampoo the scalp so vulnerable lengths avoid direct cleanser contact.

Step by step

  1. Both hands smooth rinse-out conditioner over wet mids and ends below the roots.
    STEP 1 OF 4

    Condition the wet lengths first

    • Wet the hair completely, then move clear of the water.
    • Apply a label-directed amount of reverse-wash conditioner to the mids and ends, avoiding the scalp unless allowed.
    • Smooth downward, wait only for the label time, and do not twist, pile or scrub the hair.

    Use a basin you can lean over comfortably. Pour clean water with a cup or use a handheld sprayer; keep one hand free to open or support the hair. Put the cup, sprayer or bottle down before using both hands.

  2. A woman leans over a basin and supports wet lengths while rinsing out the pre-wash conditioner.
    STEP 2 OF 4

    Rinse out the conditioner

    • Rinse the conditioner from the lengths as its label directs.
  3. A woman gently massages shampoo at her scalp with finger pads while her wet lengths hang down.
    STEP 3 OF 4

    Shampoo the scalp

    • Apply the label-directed shampoo amount at the scalp and roots.
    • Massage gently with finger pads while the lengths hang down; do not drag fresh shampoo through the mids and ends.
  4. Both hands guide rinse water from the scalp through the hanging lengths until product is gone.
    STEP 4 OF 4

    Rinse the shampoo completely

    • Rinse the scalp first and let water carry lather downward through the hanging lengths.
    • Continue through the roots, underneath and ends until no visible suds remain.
    • Press excess water from the lengths without twisting, then clear slippery product from the floor.

About 7–12 min hands-on for wetting, applying and rinsing reverse-wash conditioner, shampooing and final rinsing. Add label-directed contact times; drying is separate.

Practical editorial estimate, not measured. Two product stages and their rinses are included; very long or dense lengths can take longer.

You’re done when…

The reverse-wash conditioner was rinsed before shampooing, the scalp was cleansed without directly scrubbing the lengths, and no visible rinse-out product remains.