How Much Shampoo Should I Actually Be Using?

Spoiler alert: it’s probably less than you think (but maybe more than your last pump).

We get this question all the time: “How much shampoo should I use?”
And like most good haircare questions, the answer depends on your hair type, length, scalp condition and yes… whether or not you’re double washing.

Here’s your guide to getting it just right.

The General Rule

For most hair types:
A 10-cent coin sized amount for the first wash, and another for the second.

Yes, we recommend double washing, especially if:

• You wash less than 3 times per week
  
  
• You use styling products
  
  
• You have an oily scalp or live in a city
  
  
• You want your shampoo to actually cleanse (and not just swirl around product build-up)
  
  

But Let’s Break It Down Further:

Short or fine hair:
A small blob (5c–10c size) is plenty. It should lather on the second wash and rinse easily.

Medium length or wavy hair:
Start with a 10c-sized dollop for your first cleanse, then use slightly more for your second.

Thick, long or textured hair:
Start with a generous 20c-sized amount for the first wash to break down oils and product. Use the same again for the second, focusing on scalp and mid-lengths.

Curly or coily hair:
Double wash less often, but use enough product to reach the scalp. Gentle massaging is key, not just surface level suds.

Hot Tip: Always Wet Thoroughly First

Low-tox shampoos like ours are formulated without sulphates, so they won’t foam like your old supermarket bottle. That doesn’t mean they’re not working.

Make sure your hair is fully wet, emulsify the shampoo in your hands, then apply and massage. The second wash will lather more.

Why Too Much Shampoo Isn’t Better

More product ≠ cleaner hair.
In fact, overdoing it can:

• Waste your product
  
  
• Dry out your scalp
  
  
• Cause imbalance over time
  
  

Less is more, especially when your shampoo is formulated with coconut-derived surfactants, botanicals, and pH-balanced goodness like ours.

The perfect amount of shampoo is the one that gets your hair clean without over-cleansing it. Listen to your scalp, lather twice, and if you’re still unsure, start small and adjust as needed.

And if you’re using BodFood?
A little goes a long way.