As I start writing this article, it’s already been 15 days since the lockdown began in France, and a week since I last washed my hair. Yes, put like that, it sounds a little scary, and it seems odd for a shampoo brand to promote it.
In the lines below, we’ll explain what a sebum treatment is and why it can be very beneficial for your hair, but also which mistakes to avoid if you want your treatment to work.
Please note : during the coronavirus crisis, and if your job involves contact with other people, a sebum treatment is not recommended! Residue can get into your hair and contaminate you. Only do the treatment if you’re staying home in lockdown.
EDIT: I’m coming back to this article after a few weeks to qualify what I wrote, now that I’ve finished the treatment myself. Read my feedback here.
What is a sebum treatment?
There are two ways to do a sebum treatment: either by spacing out your shampoos, or (and this is the most radical method, perfect for lockdown) by not washing your hair at all for a set period. In the first case, you try to cut back on shampoos based on how often you currently wash: if you wash every day, try every other day, then every three days, and so on…
What’s important to understand is that sebum is very good for your hair and scalp.
The benefits of a sebum treatment
Putting off shampooing, especially if you use shampoos that contain sulfates and/or silicones, lets the scalp regulate itself better. It also lets you benefit from this natural oil (glamorous, right?) to care for your lengths.
In the long term, you can often see washes that last longer, hair that’s softer and easier to style, and, in the best case, faster hair growth.
Before the sebum treatment
It’s important to have hair that’s as natural as possible for the treatment, so beforehand you give your hair a good shampoo, but you avoid masks, conditioners and other oils that would create a barrier between your hair and the sebum.
During the sebum treatment
If there’s one part of this article you MUST read before starting the treatment, it’s this one. It is absolutely vital to brush your hair several times a day, for several reasons:
- Boost blood circulation in the scalp
- Spread the sebum along the lengths, which will care for them
- Rid your hair of dust
When it comes to brushes, choose ones made from natural fibers like boar bristles, which are much gentler. Clean your brush every day too!
Take the opportunity to massage your head with your fingers as well, very gently and in circular motions. And it’s relaxing too!
If your scalp itches even though you’re following all the guidelines above, your body is telling you to STOP! Wash your hair with a gentle shampoo; you’ll have other chances to try a sebum treatment again.
Feel free to tie up your hair too, but don’t forget to let it air out at least twice a day! My favorite hairstyle during my treatment? The low bun! Otherwise, a scarf is your best friend.
After the treatment
Yes, we’ll all be tempted to dive straight into our shampoo and conditioner, but be careful!
If you overdo it or use certain products, you’ll irritate your scalp and undo the effects of the treatment.
After the treatment is the perfect time to switch to a more natural routine!
Always choose a gentle shampoo, free from sulfates and silicones. Wash once or twice, no more. Avoid using too many chemicals.
So, convinced? Feel free to leave us your comments and tell us whether you were tempted too!
As for me, I’ll be writing an article about my own experience very soon!
EDIT: here is the link to my feedback, updated. And it’s not very positive.
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