Let’s keep it simple: shampoo goes first. It clears out dirt, oil, and product buildup so your conditioner can work its magic. Skipping the right order might leave your hair feeling less clean or hydrated than it deserves. Shampoo cleans; conditioner hydrates—it’s a team effort, and both play their part perfectly.

Short answer? Yep, you do. Shampoo handles the heavy lifting by cleaning your scalp and strands, while conditioner steps in to restore moisture and keep your hair smooth and manageable. Think of it like washing your face without moisturizing—it just doesn’t feel right. Keep them both in your routine for hair that’s always on point.

The golden rule: wash your hair when it needs it. If you’ve got fine hair or sweat it out at the gym daily, every other day might be your sweet spot. For thicker or curlier textures, stretching it to a few days—or even a week—can do the trick. Over-washing can strip your scalp of its natural oils, so find a balance that keeps your hair feeling fresh but still hydrated. Trust us, your hair will tell you what it wants.