Credit: Beyzanur K.If you’re about to start the curly girl method, you’ve probably heard about the final wash. This step is essential for preparing your hair before switching to a sulfate-free, silicone-free routine and avoiding other non-approved ingredients.
The final wash is a deep cleanse done with a specific shampoo that removes buildup left behind by conventional products. This process allows your hair to properly absorb hydration and CGM-approved products from the curly method. In this article, you’ll learn what the final wash is, how to do it correctly, and why you shouldn’t skip it.
What is the final wash?
The term final wash refers to the “last wash” performed before officially starting the curly girl method. It’s a deep cleansing step designed to reset your hair.
What is the final wash for in the curly girl method?
The main purpose of the final wash is to completely remove silicones, waxes, and mineral oils that may have built up on the hair from traditional products. These ingredients are not water-soluble and require sulfates to be fully removed.
Without this step, CGM-approved products won’t work properly because they can’t penetrate hair that’s coated with residue.
Final wash, low poo, and co-wash: what’s the difference?
These three terms are often confused, but each one serves a different purpose:
Final wash
Done only once at the very beginning of the method, focusing on cleansing the scalp.
Low poo
A regular wash using a gentle shampoo without harsh sulfates. Learn more about how to do low poo.
Co-wash
Cleansing with an approved conditioner, ideal for ultra-gentle washing while maintaining hydration. Find out if co-wash is right for you.
How to do final wash correctly
For the final wash to be effective, it’s crucial to use the right shampoo and follow the correct technique.
Choose a shampoo suitable for final wash
Your final wash shampoo must meet two essential requirements:
- Contain strong sulfates, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) or Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), which are necessary to remove silicone buildup.
- Not contain silicones like Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, or Amodimethicone, as these would remain on the hair and prevent a proper reset.
How to do final wash: step by step
- Wet your hair thoroughly with warm water to help open the cuticle.
- Apply the final wash shampoo to your scalp and massage gently with your fingertips.
- Rinse completely with plenty of water.
- Repeat if necessary, especially if you previously used many silicone-based products.
- Apply a conditioner approved for the curly girl method to restore hydration.
- Finish with your usual routine to style your curls.
Want to know if a product works as a final wash shampoo in the curly girl method? Use our product analyzer 🔎 to check it easily.
Common mistakes to avoid during the final wash
- Using a sulfate-free shampoo for the final wash
- Not checking the label and using a shampoo with silicones
- Applying shampoo to the lengths and ends, which can cause unnecessary dryness
- Doing low poo or co-wash immediately after the final wash (it’s not necessary)
Photo by Beyzanur K.
Benefits of doing the final wash in the curly girl method
Doing the final wash correctly offers several important benefits:
- Removes buildup completely 🧼 Silicones and non-water-soluble ingredients create a barrier that blocks hydration. The final wash removes this layer.
- Improves hydration absorption 💧 Once clean, hair can better absorb moisture and CGM-approved products.
- Marks the true start of the curly girl method 🌀 From this point on, your routine is free from CGM-risky ingredients.
Frequently asked questions about final wash in the curly girl method
How many times should I do the final wash?
Only once, when starting the curly girl method. After that, continue with low poo or co-wash.
What happens if I skip the final wash?
Silicones will remain on your hair, preventing CGM products from working properly. Hair may feel heavy, undefined, or coated with residue—in other words, you haven’t truly started the method.
Can I do the final wash with a sulfate-free shampoo?
No. Sulfates are necessary to remove silicones and mineral oils. Sulfate-free shampoos won’t achieve a proper reset.
How soon will I see results after the final wash?
You may notice lighter, cleaner hair immediately. However, the adjustment period—often called the detox phase—can take weeks or months depending on your hair.
Is final wash the same as clarifying?
No. The final wash is the last sulfate wash before starting CGM. Clarifying refers to deep cleansing without sulfates and can be done occasionally while following the method.
Ready to start the curly girl method?
The final wash is a crucial first step for starting the curly girl method correctly. This deep cleanse removes residue from conventional products and prepares your hair to fully benefit from a sulfate- and silicone-free routine.
If you’re ready to take this first step, visit our product directory and use the Final Wash filter to find shampoos suitable for this step and available in the United States.
Last updated: December 07, 2025