Pre-shampoo: what it is, what it's for, and how to apply it correctly

A pre-shampoo treatment, as the name suggests, means applying a cosmetic treatment before washing your hair. This term, which began to be used more than 10 years ago, is still a hair beauty trend today, and you may see it written as pre-shampoo or pre-poo.

What is pre-shampoo and why is it trending?

This treatment consists of applying an oil, conditioner, mask or treatment ampoule before washing. Sometimes applying a scalp scrub is also considered a pre-shampoo treatment, although many of these scrubs cleanse at the same time. We're not sure whether that last classification is made more for marketing reasons.

Benefits of pre-shampoo: what is it for?

This treatment treats and protects the hair, preparing it so that any product we apply afterwards is more effective. It can also help prevent damage during washing, especially in dry, dyed or breakage-prone hair.

For oily hair, a pre-shampoo treatment can also be especially useful, particularly on days when you deep-cleanse your scalp, as it helps protect the lengths — usually drier — from the more intensive action of this type of cleanse.

All hair benefits from a pre-shampoo treatment, but you need to choose well: not all pre-shampoo treatments are recommended for every hair type.

Types of pre-shampoo treatment

You'll find different types of pre-shampoo treatment:

1. Pre-shampoo treatments that act on a scalp condition, such as controlling excess oil or soothing an imbalance.
2. Pre-shampoo treatments focused on the hair — the hair fibre — to restore, protect and add extra softness.

Pre-shampoo for oily hair:

By applying a pre-shampoo with clays, balancing essential oils or detox ingredients, you can help balance sebum production, reducing the need to wash your hair so often.

Pre-shampoo for dyed or damaged hair:

If your hair is coloured, dry or damaged by chemical processes, a pre-shampoo acts as a protective barrier that reduces colour loss and improves your hair's resistance during washing.

When is it worth using a pre-shampoo?

There are many moments when you can benefit from it:

1. If you need a deep cleanse. The cleansers best suited to effectively removing oily residue, flakes and so on from the hair can sometimes dry out the ends, as this part of the hair is almost always drier than the rest. Using a pre-shampoo treatment can bring an overall benefit to scalp and hair: cleanliness and wellbeing for the scalp and softness for the ends.
2. If your hair is fragile or brittle. Applying a pre-shampoo treatment can restore your hair, add extra moisture and give it a little more protection during washing.
3. If your hair tangles easily. Applying a pre-shampoo treatment can make detangling even easier and reduce breakage of the hair fibre.
4. Windy, sunny, cold days... These are days when a pre-shampoo treatment can give any hair type extra softness and protection.
5. To keep your hair colour. Applying a pre-shampoo treatment can benefit dyed hair by helping to preserve the colour.

Common mistakes when using a pre-shampoo

• Using too much product, which can leave residue.
• Not respecting the leave-on time indicated by the manufacturer. Leaving it on for a long time before washing can put stress on the hair fibre.
• Not using the right type of pre-shampoo for your hair type.
• Applying it to wet hair (most are designed for dry hair).

How to apply a pre-shampoo treatment step by step

The Modesta Cassinello pre-shampoo ritual focuses on the hair fibre, that is, on the hair itself. It involves applying an oil, conditioner or mask before washing. This treatment is applied to the lengths and/or ends of dry hair.

1. Brush your hair before applying the pre-shampoo treatment to remove tangles, so the treatment is evenly distributed and more effective.
2. Apply H04 Revitalizing Conditioner, H09 Nourishing Hair Mask or H10 Sublime Oil about 10 minutes before washing, from mid-lengths to ends, on dry hair.
3. Once the time is up, get in the shower, wet your hair thoroughly and carry on with your usual shampoo as normal.
4. Apply conditioner again or a mask, from mid-lengths to ends, for a better result.
5. Rinse well and apply your favourite styling product.

What's the difference between using a hair oil as a pre-shampoo and as a finishing treatment?

The difference lies in when you apply it, how much you use and the effect you want.

• Oil as a pre-shampoo: applied before washing, on dry hair. It nourishes
  deeply, protects against the shampoo and improves manageability. Leave it
  on for 10 to 30 minutes before rinsing.
• Oil as a finisher: applied after washing, on damp or
  dry hair. It seals the ends, controls frizz and adds shine. It's used in
  small amounts and not rinsed out.

Both uses are compatible and can be combined according to your
hair's needs.

How often should you use it? Recommended frequency

We recommend applying this treatment one day a week and assessing the results. On very dry or bleached hair, you can apply it every time before you wash your hair.

And if pre-shampoo isn't working for you? If you don't see results, check the following:

• Are you using the right type for your needs?
• Are you applying it to dry hair?
• Are you leaving it on long enough?
• Are you combining it with harsh products that cancel out its effects?

We can help you choose the best routine for your hair.

Recommended products for your pre-shampoo ritual

If you're just starting out with pre-shampoo, or want to improve your current routine, these are some of the most recommended products for their effectiveness, texture and real benefits for hair:

H04 Revitalizing Conditioner: Although many people use it after shampoo, it can be applied beforehand as an express treatment if you're short of time and need to control frizz or improve manageability.

H09 Nourishing Hair Mask: If you're looking for extra softness, repair and detangling, this mask is perfect to apply before washing. Especially useful for dyed hair or hair with split ends.

H10 Sublime Oil: Ideal for dry, damaged or frizzy hair. It provides deep nourishment without weighing hair down. Its light texture makes it perfect as a nourishing pre-shampoo.

Modesta Cassinello tip: For more even distribution of the product, brush your hair before applying the treatment and use a comb or the iBlend treatment brush, which helps spread the product efficiently from mid-lengths to ends.

Want to find out which one is best for you? Write to us and we'll tell you which pre-shampoo suits you best, depending on your hair type, level of damage and how often you wash.

Frequently asked questions about pre-shampoo (FAQ)

What exactly is a pre-shampoo?

It's a treatment applied to dry hair before shampooing, designed to protect the hair fibre, prepare the scalp and boost the benefits of the wash that follows.

Are pre-shampoo and hair oil the same thing?

No. Pre-shampoo is used before washing, while hair oil is usually applied afterwards, as a finishing treatment or as overnight nourishment.

What type of pre-shampoo is best for oily hair?

One with sebum-regulating ingredients, such as clay or citrus essential oils, that balances the scalp without drying out the ends.

And for dyed or damaged hair?

A nourishing pre-shampoo is recommended, such as oils or masks, to help preserve colour and strengthen the hair fibre.

How often should you use a pre-shampoo?

Generally, once a week. On very dry or damaged hair, it can be applied before every wash.

What common mistakes should you avoid?

Applying it to wet hair, not respecting the leave-on time, using too much, or using one that doesn't suit your hair type.

 

Every article is backed by the expertise of Dr. Modesta, pharmacist and founder, committed to excellence in hair care.