What is co-wash and how to use it?

What is co-wash?

Co-wash, short for "conditioning wash," is a multi-tasking hair cleanser that skips the harsh detergents found in traditional shampoos. Unlike traditional 2-in-1 products that start with a shampoo base and include minimal conditioning agents, co-wash features a conditioner-first formula with just a touch of cleansing ingredients. Instead of stripping your hair, it gently cleanses your scalp and strands while maintaining your hair's natural oils. Designed especially for dry, curly, or textured hair, co-washing is all about giving your strands the hydration they crave while still keeping them clean.

Benefits of co-washing

Not sure if co-washing is the right fit for your routine? Take a moment to explore all the ways it can benefit your hair.

• Hydration boost– Co-washing prevents stripping your hair of its natural moisture, leaving you with soft, hydrated strands.
• Gentle cleansing– Its low-lather formula is perfect for delicate or damaged hair types.
• Tames frizz– By retaining your natural oils, it can help smooth and define curls and waves.
• Simplifies your routine– Cleanse and condition in one step, saving time and effort.
• Color-safe care– Co-washes are often free of sulfates, making them kinder to color-treated hair.
• Boosts manageability– Hair tends to feel softer, smoother, and easier to style after regular co-washing.
• Scalp-friendly– It’s a gentle, non-drying option for maintaining scalp health.

How to use co-wash?

Using a co-wash is super simple! Start by thoroughly wetting your hair. Next, apply a generous amount of the co-wash to your scalp and strands. Massage it into your scalp with your fingertips to break up buildup and impurities, then work it through your hair from root to tip. Leave it on for a few minutes for extra hydration, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. That’s it! You’re left with cleaner, more moisturized hair.

How often should you co-wash?

How often you co-wash depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have curly, textured, or dry hair, co-washing 2–3 times a week can help maintain moisture while keeping your hair clean. For fine or oily hair, stick to 1–2 times per week and alternate with regular shampoo to avoid buildup. Active lifestyles or frequent workouts? Co-wash as needed but listen to your hair to find the sweet spot that works for you.

Best co-wash brands to try

Looking for the best co-washes to elevate your routine? Here are some bestselling picks, all available at Ulta Beauty.

• Ouidad – A trusted name for creating solutions that leave curls soft, manageable, and frizz-free.
• Curlsmith – A go-to for curl enthusiasts, featuring nutrient-rich formulas inspired by healthy kitchen ingredients.
• Paul Mitchell – Renowned for professional-grade products that focus on hydration and smoothness for all hair types.
• Matrix – Versatile and salon-favorite staples designed to cater to textured hair with effective and innovative care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between shampoo and co-wash?

Think of shampoo as a detergent designed to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair and scalp. It often contains sulfates, which can be quite effective at cleansing but can also strip your hair of its natural oils, potentially leading to dryness.

Co-wash, on the other hand, is a cleansing conditioner. It's formulated to gently cleanse the hair without the harsh sulfates found in many shampoos. Instead, co-washes use milder cleansing agents along with moisturizing ingredients to remove some impurities while depositing hydration.

What is the difference between conditioner and co-wash?

Traditional conditioners are primarily designed to moisturize, detangle, and smooth the hair after shampooing. They typically don't contain significant cleansing agents.

Co-wash products serve a dual purpose: they cleanse the hair (albeit gently) and condition it in one step. While a co-wash will condition, it might not offer the same level of intense hydration or detangling power as a dedicated deep conditioner.

Is co-washing good for fine hair?

Co-washing can work for fine hair, but it depends on your hair's needs. If your fine hair is dry or curly, a lightweight co-wash may help maintain moisture without weighing it down. However, if you have an oily scalp or very fine, straight hair, you might prefer alternating with a traditional shampoo to avoid buildup.

Do you co-wash before or after shampooing?

Co-washing generally replaces shampoo in your routine, so it’s not necessary to use it after shampooing. However, some people alternate between the two throughout the week for balance, using shampoo occasionally for a deeper cleanse and co-washing for hydration.

What does a co-wash do?

A co-wash gently cleanses your hair and scalp without stripping away natural oils. It hydrates, softens, and detangles, making it a great option for textured, dry, or color-treated hair that benefits from extra moisture and less frequent deep cleansing.

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