Hairstylists aren’t short of insider tricks, from applying conditioner only to the mid-length and ends when roots run oily, to lesser-known hacks like the “shampoo sandwich”.
Hair transplant surgeon Dr Divya Shokeen says the latter technique is one of her favourites for delivering volume without sacrificing smoothness.
"This is my most elite way to wash your hair,” she told viewers in a recent TikTok clip.
"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, so you don't get a bunch of flyaways."
"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."
Dr Divya Shokeen says the sandwich technique is one of her favourites for volume
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The method works by applying treatment or conditioner before shampooing to shield the drier and more fragile sections of hair.
Coating the strands this way means the shampoo steps that follow can cleanse the scalp properly without stripping any moisture from the length, leaving the hair glossier.
"You're going to condition the entire length of your hair but not the top of your scalp," the surgeon explained.
"You're going to shampoo with the conditioner still on your hair, and then you're going to wash it all off and condition again.
"That will make sure that your cuticles are actually sealed, but also it will help to make sure that you get rid of unnecessary buildup that you have on your scalp without overdrying the rest of your hair.
"Trust me, this is the best way to wash your hair."
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By lifting grease at the root while locking hydration further down the hair strand, the sandwich method is able to solve two problems simultaneously.
This makes it particularly useful for anyone whose roots tend to oil up quickly while their ends stay parched - but it’s also useful for anyone who colour-treats their hair.
Since the pre-wash treatment acts as a buffer, it essentially reduces colour fade during shampooing.
Anyone with wavy or curly hair will benefit too, as the extra moisture retention translates into better shine and definition over time.
The sandwich method is recommended for curly hair
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The one caveat is that a layered approach using shampoo and conditioner can feel heavy on very fine hair.
Anyone with thin strands keen to try it should opt for a lightweight, silicone-free pre-treatment to avoid weighing hair down.