How to Shampoo for Every Scalp Type: A Trichology Guide
How to Shampoo for Every Scalp Type: A Trichology Guide
Shampooing might seem straightforward, but the truth is that every scalp is unique. Understanding your scalp type and the right shampooing method is key to maintaining healthy, nourished hair. Whether your scalp is normal, dry, oily, sensitive, or prone to conditions like eczema or dandruff, tailoring your routine can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll explore each scalp type, outline the ideal shampooing method, and recommend Holistic Hair products designed to support your scalp and hair. Here’s what you need to know…
Common Shampooing Mistakes
Even with the best products, incorrect shampooing can undermine scalp and hair health. Avoid these common errors:
- Washing hair instead of scalp — The scalp is where oil, sweat, and buildup accumulate.
- Using too much product — Overloading shampoo can leave residue.
- Scrubbing aggressively — This can irritate and damage the scalp.
- Skipping thorough wetting — Shampoo won’t lather or clean effectively.
- Applying conditioner to scalp unnecessarily — Can cause build-up or grease.
How to Identify Your Scalp Type
Knowing your scalp type is the first step to a personalised shampoo routine. Common scalp types include:
- Normal: Balanced oil and moisture levels.
- Dry: Tight, flaky, or itchy scalp.
- Oily: Greasy roots, often shiny hair.
- Sensitive: Irritated, reactive, or easily inflamed.
- Dandruff-prone: Flaking caused by imbalance or yeast overgrowth.
- Eczema & Psoriasis: Inflamed, red, flaky patches.
- Hair loss / shedding-prone: Thinning or shedding hair.
- Compromised scalp: Folliculitis, post-illness, or barrier damage.
- Colour-treated or chemically-treated: Weakened, fragile strands.
Many scalp conditions overlap, which is why shampoo method matters as much as shampoo choice.
Shampoo Methods by Scalp Type
1. Standard Balance Method – Normal Scalp
If you have a normal scalp, the goal is to maintain equilibrium without over-cleansing.
Technique:
- Wash 2–3 times per week.
- Use lukewarm water and gentle circular motions.
- Focus shampoo on the scalp, letting lather rinse through the lengths.
Holistic Hair Tip: One thorough cleanse is usually enough. Avoid scrubbing the hair lengths.
Recommended: Try our Pure Shampoo for balanced, healthy scalp support.
2. Gentle Calming Method – Sensitive, Mild Eczema & Mild Psoriasis
For sensitive or reactive scalps, and mild eczema or psoriasis, focus on calming and protecting the barrier.
Technique:
- Use lukewarm water and gentle finger massage.
- Limit shampoo contact time; rinse thoroughly.
- Wash only as needed to prevent irritation.
Holistic Hair Tip: Consistency matters more than frequency. Gentle, regular cleansing maintains balance.
Recommended: Use Sensitive Shampoo for mild forms of sensitivity, eczema, or psoriasis. For severe forms, consider Pure Shampoo.
3. Deep but Respectful Cleansing – Oily, Dandruff, Seborrheic Dermatitis
For scalp types that produce excess oil or are prone to flaking, a two-stage cleanse works best.
Technique:
- First cleanse: remove surface oil and buildup.
- Second cleanse: gently massage into scalp to remove residual oil and debris.
- Rinse thoroughly.
Holistic Hair Tip: Avoid over-scrubbing. Let the shampoo do the work.
Recommended: Sensitive Shampoo helps balance oily and flaking scalps. Combine with targeted scalp care if needed: Scalp Care Collection.
4. Hydration-Support Method – Dry Scalp
Dry or tight scalps benefit from hydration and gentle nourishment. Pre-shampoo oil treatments can help.
Technique:
- Apply Scalp Treatment Oil before shampooing: use a small amount, massage into the scalp, leave for 30 minutes or longer, then double shampoo out.
- Wash 1–2 times per week with lukewarm water.
- Massage gently, focusing on scalp without over-scrubbing.
Holistic Hair Tip: Scalp Treatment Oil can also be applied overnight for extra hydration. Double shampoo ensures all oil is removed.
Recommended: Hydrating Shampoo nourishes dry scalps. Incorporate Scalp Treatment Oil pre-shampoo for maximum benefit.
5. Colour & Treated Hair Method
For colour-treated or chemically-processed hair, protection and gentle cleansing are key.
Technique:
- Use cooler water to prevent colour fade.
- Wash less frequently to preserve hair integrity.
- Gently massage scalp and avoid over-scrubbing lengths.
Holistic Hair Tip: Shampoo with care to extend colour vibrancy and reduce hair breakage.
Shop the Quinoa Pro NPNF Colour Protect Shampoo
Recommended: Quinoa Pro NPNF Colour Protect Shampoo keeps colour-treated hair healthy and vibrant.
Not Sure Which Shampoo Is Right? Try Trial & Travel Sizes
Unsure which routine suits your scalp? Experiment with trial and travel sizes to find the perfect match for your needs.
Conditioners: A Quick Note
Conditioners nourish the hair lengths, not the scalp. While matching conditioners to shampoos is optional, we recommend exploring our conditioner range to support your hair type. For tips on applying and maximising benefits, see our guide on using conditioners.
When Shampoo Alone Isn’t Enough: Extra Scalp Care
For persistent scalp concerns, consider our extra care scalp solutions to support a healthy, balanced scalp alongside your shampoo routine.
Conclusion
Shampooing properly is a skill, and understanding your scalp type is essential for healthy hair. With the right method and the right Holistic Hair products, you can support scalp balance, hydrate your hair, and feel confident that your haircare routine is both effective and gentle.
Find Your Balance with Holistic Hair
Explore our Hair Care Collection and Scalp Care Collection to find natural solutions tailored to your hair needs. Whether you’re managing excess oil, dryness, or both, Holistic Hair products exist to help you achieve scalp and hair harmony—naturally.
About the Author:
Nicky James-Baird is the Co-Owner of Holistic Hair, a premium natural hair care brand based in New Zealand. She holds a Diploma of Higher Associate Trichology from the World Trichology Society in New York and a Diploma in Personal Care Formulating. Nicky brings together expertise in scalp and hair health with a commitment to sustainable, plant-based product development. To learn more about the Holistic Hair brand story, visit our About Us page.
