This isn’t just another article about washing your hair. It’s the story of how I went from daily hair washing to just twice a week—without any bad hair days or greasy strands.

Okay, maybe I’m being a little dramatic. But let’s be honest—figuring out the right shampoo routine can feel like a major quest. My own hair-washing journey has been all over the place: I started with a simple daily shampoo, then tried double and even triple washing. I experimented with spacing out washes and even briefly went no-poo.

Most of the time, I didn’t notice much difference—my hair often looked just as good on day two as it did on day one. But everything changed when I discovered what I now call “the Swedish technique.”

(Quick disclaimer: If you Google it, you won’t find anything. I totally made up the name.)

Here’s how it works: Instead of washing your hair, you focus on massaging your scalp using gentle, circular motions—similar to a Swedish massage. The key is using your fingertips to stimulate blood flow and release tension while applying shampoo directly to your scalp, not your hair.

Felix Burillo, a stylist at Espacio Q in Madrid, explained this to me during my last appointment. He emphasized that shampooing isn’t about scrubbing your hair—it’s about cleansing your scalp. The foam from the shampoo will naturally clean your hair as it rinses out.

Why focus on the scalp?
Your scalp produces sebum and collects dirt from products and dead skin cells. “It’s just as important to care for your scalp as it is for your hair,” says Burillo. “Gentle circular motions lift impurities, distribute natural oils, and ensure a thorough cleanse.”

Timing is key
Burillo recommends spending one to two minutes massaging your scalp with your fingertips—no rushing. Mindless, quick washes won’t cut it. Since adopting this method, I’ve noticed my hair stays cleaner longer.

“Avoid harsh or straight-line movements,” he adds. “They don’t stimulate or clean effectively.”

Of course, if your scalp truly needs daily washing, that’s fine—it can even help balance oil production. But often, daily washing is just a habit or the result of an ineffective technique. My “Swedish method” solves both issues.

Here’s to better hair days ahead!