Washing your hair is perhaps one of the most mundane beauty tasks we all partake in, which is why you’d assume there’s little room for error.

But as it turns out, your hair washing technique may not only be responsible for delivering lacklustre results, it could also be causing damage to your hair strands.

To find out where we’re going wrong, we spoke to hair colourist and founder of his own namesake brand, Christophe Robin for his top tips.

#1 / You’re not doing this essential pre-shampoo step

Robin says one of the easiest ways to repair and restore your hair is to indulge in a pre-shampoo treatment. “Because no one has time to stay in the shower with a mask, it’s a good thing to prep your hair beforehand,” Robin explains. His top tip is to apply a small amount of Christophe Robin Moisturising Hair Oil with Lavender to the roots at least two hours before you wash your hair, and tie your mask-covered strands up into a braid or bun to avoid getting product on your clothes and shoulders. “The lavender oil will restore the hair and put back all the good nutrients,” says Robin.

#2 / You’re using too much product

According to Robin, one of the biggest mistakes we’re all making when we wash our hair is using too much product. His recommended dose: “It should only be a spoonful of product,” as anything more can weigh down strands.

Once you’ve applied shampoo to your roots, Robin says it’s imperative that you don’t massage any shampoo into the ends of your hair. “Would you rub your cashmere sweater or silk shirt? The hair is very delicate, too. You just need to use your fingers to gently comb it through the ends,” Robin explains.

If your current shampoo isn’t working wonders for you, try Hair Recipe Strawberry and Mint Cleanse Shampoo for a deep and thorough clean.

#3 / You’re not rinsing thoroughly

It might sound obvious, but Robin can’t stress the importance of properly rinsing your hair free of all cleansing and conditioning products before you jump out of the shower. “Rinse very well – rinse like crazy. Rinse and rinse and rinse. Make sure you don’t leave any trace of product on your scalp or the lengths.” says Robin.

#4 / You’re brushing your hair when it’s wet

According to Robin, brushing your hair when it’s wet is a cardinal hair sin. “Never use a brush when your hair is wet – ever.” This is because “the hair cuticle is open when your hair is wet and if you comb it you’ll pull and damage the hair,” shares Robin.

Instead, Robin suggests brushing your hair with a natural bristle brush like Cloud Nine Dressing Brush before you jump into the shower to untangle any knots.

Considering switching up your hair colour? Then read our guide on exactly what you need to know when making a major hair colour change.

What is your Holy Grail shampoo and conditioner combo? Let us know in the comments below.

Image credit: @emrata