How to Double Wash Without Stripping Your Scalp (And Why You Might Want To)

Let’s talk about that thing you’ve probably heard on Instagram, your hairdresser might have mentioned in passing, and your bestie swears by: double washing.

It sounds a bit extra, we know. Why wash your hair twice, when you’ve been washing it once your whole life? But here’s the secret: double washing isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing it better.

And when you do it right (especially with a low-tox, clean shampoo), it can be the difference between hair that feels “meh” and hair that actually holds volume, softness, and style.

What Is Double Washing, Exactly?

It’s simple:
Step 1: The first wash removes sweat, oil, product, and build-up.
Step 2: The second wash actually cleanses your scalp and hair properly, so the nourishing ingredients can do their thing.

That second wash is where the magic happens.

Why Double Wash?

If you’re wondering whether it’s really necessary, here are a few reasons it might be perfect for you:

• You use dry shampoo, styling sprays, or serums between washes
  

• Your scalp gets oily fast, but your ends stay dry
  

• You only wash your hair once or twice a week
  

• Your shampoo doesn’t lather much the first time
  

• You want your clean hair feeling to actually last longer
  

A single wash often only gets through surface build-up. But a double wash? It preps your scalp and strands for real results.

How to Double Wash (Without Overdoing It)

You don’t need to scrub harder. You just need to wash smarter. Here’s how to get it right:

Start with a gentle, clean shampoo.
All BodFood shampoos are sulphate-free, coconut-derived and pH-balanced—so they cleanse effectively without drying or disrupting your scalp.

Use a small amount for the first wash.
You’ll notice the lather might be minimal—that’s normal. It’s breaking through the gunk.

Rinse and go in again.
This time you’ll get a creamier, richer lather. Massage gently into the scalp and mid-lengths.

Follow with conditioner.
Only apply conditioner from the mid-lengths to ends unless your scalp is dry and needs a moisture top-up.

Finish with your usual styling product, or leave your hair bare and clean.
Double washing preps the perfect base for bounce, softness, or second-day waves.

Can Double Washing Work for Every Hair Type?

Yes—but tweak it to suit your texture and routine:

• Oily scalp / fine hair: Double wash every time to reset your roots and get longer-lasting freshness.

• Dry or curly hair: Try double washing only once a week, or switch to a co-wash or lighter first cleanse.

• Product-heavy routines: If you use dry shampoo, hair sprays, or heat protectants regularly, double washing helps remove residue that can block your scalp and dull your strands.
  

A Few Don’ts (So You Don’t Overdo It)

• Don’t use a harsh clarifying shampoo unless you need it—gentle cleansers are enough for regular double washing.

• Don’t skip conditioner after a double cleanse—your ends still need protection.

• Don’t use scalding hot water—it dries out your scalp and roughs up the cuticle.
  
  

It’s Not About Overwashing—It’s About Overdelivering

Double washing isn’t about being fancy. It’s about giving your scalp the reset it deserves, especially if you’re aiming for a low-tox, high-performance routine.

And when you use a gentle, coconut-based shampoo (like any of ours), you’ll get that luxe, deep-clean feel—without ever stripping your natural oils or upsetting your hair’s balance.

Try it for two weeks. We dare you not to love the way your hair feels.