All Naturalistas know that the big wash day is just that: BIG. We often talk about how it’s an all-day process, and because of this, I only do it at most once a month. Below is my wash day process that’s long as hell, but a big part in my healthy hair care routine.

1. Detangle

This is typically my least favorite part of wash day. It doesn’t always take that long (depending on how neglectful I’ve been in the prior weeks), but it’s just not fun. Depending on how hard core I’m choosing to be during that detangling session [searching for single strand knots (SSK) and split ends to cut], I may even start this step a few days before my actual wash day. I prefer to star on dry and use either a cheap conditioner, or water and oil. It’s also important to detangle your hair when you have time, and aren’t completely exhausted to make sure that you are not rushing and snapping your precious strands.

In the same vein of being gentle, I also almost exclusively finger detangle. My fine strands thank me tremendously for this, and I’ve seen a serious decrease in excess shedding and breakage. Finger detangling can be beneficial for all hair types, densities, and thicknesses. However, if you have fine hair you should truly consider reducing the use of tools when detangling if not eliminating them all together.

2. Wash

Usually on the big wash day, I use a regular sulfate-free shampoo. After 4 weeks, I need a complete reset, and this is done by actually shampooing my hair. By doing this I am ensuring that not only will my conditioning treatments done that day be more effective, but so will my moisturizing techniques for the next few weeks will be as well.

3. Henna

I’m sure by now you’ve heard all about henna, and the amazing benefits that it (and other aruveydic herbs) can have for your hair. Henna is a staple for my strands, and I try to incorporate it in my hair care routine in any way that I can. On wash day, I usually will try to do a full-strength henna treatment. These treatments are likened to that of a protein treatment, and it does in fact may my hair much stronger, gives it more sheen, and reduces my split ends and SSK. If your hair is fine, or porous, OR BOTH (like mine), then you need henna in your hair care.

4. Deep Condition

After a henna treatment, I always follow up with a moisturizing deep conditioning treatment to balance out my hair. Typically, I am using a store bought conditioner, however I always include my 3 favorite ingredients. I also try to amp it up by adding heat by using a dryer bonnet attachment and sitting under it for about 30-45 minutes. After that I rinse the conditioner out, and use a final Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) rinse to close the cuticle.

5. Moisturize/Seal/Style

This is my last step, but it is far from being the least important. After my ACV rinse, I usually will put my hair in 4 twists, and allow my hair to dry about 75-80%. Once my hair is mostly dry, I use the LOC method and further stretch my hair in plaits with twisted ends. Once my hair is fully dry, I will either wear a braid-out or in another style of choice until my mid-week refreshing wash.

This day is intense, that’s why I only do it once a month.
What does your wash day look like?