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What is the best way to shampoo your hair? Dermatologist Dr Divya Shokeen explains the sandwich method

Updated on: Sep 6, 2026, 14:37:43 IST
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Dr Divya Shokeen believes the sandwich method is the best way to wash the hair. (Pexel)
Dr Divya Shokeen believes the sandwich method is the best way to wash the hair. (Pexel)

Dr Divya Shokeen's sandwich method for hair wash involves using a conditioner before and after using shampoo. 

A good hair wash is one of the simplest acts of self-care that feels wonderful when done right. Sometimes, however, it can also leave one unsatisfied with how their hair appears afterwards. But it all depends on the products used or the procedure followed.

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Taking to Instagram on June 23, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon Dr Divya Shokeen shared what she believes is the best way to wash our hair. She does not mention any specific brand or product composition, leaving that to our choice. Rather, she outlines the steps to follow to achieve perfect hair after every wash.

The sandwich method for washing hair

While washing hair, we often look forward to getting greater volume in the end, but that often comes at the cost of the hair looking smooth after drying. As per Dr Shokeen, the sandwich method is the most elite way of washing hair.

“I tell this to patients day in and day out, and I truly think this is the best way to get that volume that you're looking for, but at the same time, make sure that it's nice and smooth, and you don't get a bunch of flyaways,” she stated.

“It is called the sandwich method. I'm sure you've heard of it when it comes to retinoids, but I think it is way more effective when you use it with your hair,” she continued.

The sandwich method by Dr Shokeen involves using hair conditioner and shampoo together, with the shampoo coming in between two rounds of hair conditioning.

Describing the method, the dermatologist stated, “You are going to condition the entire length of your hair, but not the top of your scalp. You're going to shampoo with that conditioner still on your hair, and then you are going to wash it all off. Condition again.”

She explained that following the sandwich method while washing your hair makes sure that your cuticles are actually sealed, but also that you get rid of all of the unnecessary yeast and buildup that you have throughout your scalp without overdrying the rest of your hair.

About dermatologist Dr Divya Shokeen

Dr Divya Shokeen is a board-certified dermatologist, a UCLA graduate, and the founder of OSVI Dermatology and Surgical Institute. In addition to medical and surgical dermatology, Dr Shokeen is a hair transplant surgeon specialising in non-surgical hair restoration.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.

  • Debapriya Bhattacharya
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Debapriya Bhattacharya

    Debapriya Bhattacharya is a Content Producer at Hindustan Times. He started his career in 2022, working in newsrooms in beats like education, US news, trending stories, and entertainment. In his new role in the lifestyle desk, he seeks to deliver a balanced blend of research-driven reporting and creative storytelling from health and recipes to art and culture. Science, philosophy, food and pop culture are what pump his veins and help bring heart to his stories. Debapriya tries to see out subjects that will allow him and readers to explore new frontiers and improve the quality of life for all. The explorations can be both external and internal, as thoughts seek to be as chaotic as the greater universe. As a citizen of the world, Debapriya has been fascinated by the lives of people across the globe throughout time. His curiosity leads him to explore new linguistic and cultural landscapes to broaden his horizons and deepen his understanding of global narratives. Beyond the newsroom, Debapriya loves to participate in debate and theatre, spaces that he considers to be holy grounds for nuance and self-expression. A graduate from Ashutosh College, University of Calcutta, Debapriya completed his Master's degree from the same university in 2022. An ambiverted bibliophile, he loves his solitude as much as he adores stimulating conversations. And despite his reverence for tech, libraries continue to be his favourite place for research.Read More

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