The Ultimate Guide to Pre-Wash Hair Treatments
A pre-wash hair treatment is applied before shampoo to help nourish hair and improve softness, shine and manageability. With Lil J, your weekly ritual starts on dry hair: apply your chosen treatment, leave it for at least 30 minutes, then shampoo twice and condition. This guide explains how to use it and choose the right formula for your hair and scalp.
In This Guide You'll Learn
✓ What a pre-wash hair treatment is
✓ How pre-wash treatments work
✓ The benefits of treatment-first haircare
✓ How to use a pre-wash treatment
✓ Which treatment is right for your hair type
✓ Answers to common questions
What Is A Pre-Wash Hair Treatment?
A pre-wash hair treatment is an extra care step used before shampooing. Depending on the formula, it can be applied to your hair, scalp or both.
Lil J’s oil-based treatments are applied to dry hair and scalp before washing. Each formula is designed for different needs, from lightweight nourishment for fine hair to richer care for thick, dry hair.
After the treatment has had time to work, shampoo removes excess oil and conditioner completes your routine.
Pre-wash treatments can help address concerns such as:
Dry hair
Dull hair
Frizz
Dry, rough-feeling ends
Scalp irritation
Flaky scalp
Colour-treated hair damage
The Lil J Method
How To Use a Lil J Pre-Wash Hair Treatment
-
PRE-WASH
Start with dry hair
Section your hair so you can distribute the treatment evenly.
-
TREAT
Apply your treatment
Gently massage through the areas you are treating, including the scalp where directed.
-
RELAX
30 minutes
Leave it for at least 30 minutes before washing.
-
CLEANSE
Shampoo twice
Wash out the treatment, rinsing thoroughly after each shampoo.
-
Condition
Condition once
Apply conditioner through your mid-lengths and ends, then rinse and style as usual.
Make it a weekly ritual. Choose the treatment for your hair needs and follow the directions on its label.
Why Use A Pre-Wash Treatment?
Nourish Hair Before Washing
Support moisture levels before cleansing.
Support Scalp Health
Target scalp concerns directly.
Improve Manageability
Help reduce tangles and improve softness.
Create A Weekly Ritual
A simple self-care step that fits into your routine.
Which Lil J Treatment Is Right For You?
Explore our fine hair care guide, thick hair care guide or dry, flaky or itchy scalp care guide for a routine suited to your needs.
BEST FOR THICK HAIR
Thick & Juicy
The Thick & Juicy pre-wash hair treatment is designed specifically for thick, coarse, dry and frizz-prone hair.
✓ Thick hair
✓ Dry hair
✓ Frizzy hair
BEST FOR FINE HAIR
Fine & Fabulous
The Fine & Fabulous pre-wash hair treatment is created specifically for fine, flat and fragile hair.
✓ Fine hair
✓ Colour-treated hair
✓ Lightweight hydration
BEST FOR SCALP BALANCE
Flake Off
The Flake Off pre-wash scalp treatment is designed for flaky, itchy and buildup-prone scalps.
✓ Flaky scalp
✓ Itchy scalp
✓ Sensitive scalp
BEST FOR DULL HAIR
Bounce Back
The Bounce Back pre-wash hair treatment is created for hair that's lost its shine, softness and vitality.
✓ Dull hair
✓ Lifeless curls
✓ Lack of bounce
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Find Your Mane Match
Our Hair Quiz has been developed to match your hair type, concerns and goals with the Lil J treatment that's right for you.
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Created By A Hairdresser
Designed by Lil J founder, Jason using decades of salon experience.
Personalised Recommendation
Receive a tailored recommendation based on your unique hair concerns.
Takes Just 60 Seconds
Answer a few simple questions and we'll do the hard work for you.
Created By A Hairdresser
Designed by Lil J founder, Jason using decades of salon experience.
Personalised Recommendation
Receive a tailored recommendation based on your unique hair concerns.
Start The Hair Quiz
Customer Reviews
Voices of love & locks
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
'I am absolutely loving my Lil J products!! My hair feels so hydrated and strong! Not to mention smells delicious.'
'The oils were amazing! I put it in for 45 min on dry hair before my shower; my ‘fuzzball’ hair is silky and tamed.'
'My dandruff and scalp health has never been better.'
'The Thick & Juicy oil is DIVINE! And my preferred over Olaplex. Helps my dry curly hair really shine 😍'
'Loving this product! 25 years in the business and finally we have something natural to offer our clients and it actually works.'
'Magic in a bottle! I use the Thick & Juicy hair treatment once a week. I leave it in overnight and love the smell of the product in my hair.'
Created by a hairdresser.
Why I started before shampoo.
Meet Jason (aka Lil J)
After more than 20 years behind the chair, I kept seeing the same thing.
People were spending more and more on shampoos, conditioners and styling products, but the step before shampoo was being overlooked.
That's where Lil J started.
I created our pre-wash treatments to give different hair types and scalp concerns targeted care before washing. They're simple to use, naturally derived and designed to become part of your routine just once a week.
Because great haircare doesn't have to be complicated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a pre-wash hair treatment?
A pre-wash hair treatment is a care step used before shampooing. Lil J’s oil-based treatments are applied to dry hair or scalp to help nourish, soften and improve manageability. After 30 minutes, wash out the treatment with shampoo and follow with conditioner.
How is a pre-wash treatment different from a hair mask?
The main difference is when you use it. Lil J pre-wash treatments go onto dry hair before shampooing. Many hair masks are applied to wet hair after shampooing, although directions vary between products. Always follow your chosen product’s instructions.
What are the benefits of a pre-wash hair treatment?
Depending on the formula and your hair needs, a pre-wash treatment can help improve softness, shine, smoothness and manageability. Lil J offers different formulas for thick hair, fine hair, dull or limp hair, and scalp care.
Which Lil J pre-wash treatment should I choose?
Choose the formula that best matches your main hair or scalp concern:
- Thick & Juicy: nourishing care for thick, dry or colour-treated hair.
- Fine & Fabulous: lightweight nourishment for fine or colour-treated hair.
- Bounce Back: care for dull, limp hair needing softness and shine.
- Flake Off: targeted care for a dry, flaky or itchy scalp.
Explore our hair systems if you would like a treatment, shampoo and conditioner routine.
How do I use a Lil J pre-wash treatment?
Apply your chosen treatment to dry hair or scalp, following its application directions. Leave it for 30 minutes, shampoo twice to remove the oil, then condition once. Repeat weekly as part of your haircare routine.
Do I apply the treatment to wet or dry hair?
Apply Lil J pre-wash treatments to dry hair or scalp before washing. Save your shampoo and conditioner for after the treatment.
Should I apply the treatment to my scalp or my hair?
Follow the directions for your chosen formula. Thick & Juicy, Fine & Fabulous and Bounce Back are applied through the mid-lengths and ends. Flake Off is applied directly to the scalp, section by section, with a gentle massage.
How much treatment should I use?
Start with a few drops per section on the recommended areas. The amount you need depends on your hair’s length and thickness. You do not need to saturate your hair. If it feels coated after washing and drying, use less at your next treatment.
Do I need to leave the treatment in overnight?
No. Lil J’s recommended routine is a 30-minute treatment before washing. There is no need to sleep with it in or extend the treatment time to complete the routine.
How long should I leave the treatment in?
Leave your Lil J pre-wash treatment in for 30 minutes before washing. Shampoo twice afterwards and finish with conditioner.
How often should I use a pre-wash treatment?
Use your Lil J pre-wash treatment once a week. On other wash days, use your shampoo and conditioner as usual.
Why do you recommend shampooing twice afterwards?
The first shampoo helps remove the treatment oil and surface build-up. The second completes the cleanse. Rinse thoroughly after each shampoo, then apply conditioner through your lengths and ends.
Will a pre-wash treatment make my hair greasy?
Lil J pre-wash treatments are designed to be washed out. Use a small amount of the formula suited to your hair, shampoo twice and rinse thoroughly. If your hair still feels oily or coated after drying, reduce the amount at your next treatment.
Can I use a pre-wash treatment on fine hair?
Yes. Fine & Fabulous is designed to provide lightweight nourishment for fine hair. Apply a small amount through your mid-lengths and ends, leave for 30 minutes, then shampoo twice and condition once.
For more guidance, explore our fine hair care guide.
Can I use a pre-wash treatment on thick hair?
Yes. Thick & Juicy is designed for thick, dry or colour-treated hair. Section your hair to distribute the treatment through your mid-lengths and ends, then follow the recommended wash-out routine.
Explore our thick hair care guide for help building your routine.
What if my hair is fine and also looks dull or limp?
Start with your hair type. Fine & Fabulous is the lightweight option for fine strands, even when they look flat or dull. Bounce Back is aimed at dull, limp hair where fine strand thickness is not the main concern.
Are Lil J pre-wash treatments suitable for coloured hair?
Yes. Lil J pre-wash treatments are colour-safe. Choose the formula that suits your hair type and follow its application and wash-out directions.
Can a pre-wash treatment help dry or frizzy hair?
A suitable formula can help dry hair feel softer and more manageable, with a smoother-looking finish. Choose Thick & Juicy for thick hair or Fine & Fabulous for fine hair, and follow with shampoo and conditioner.
Can a pre-wash treatment repair split ends?
A treatment can help dry, rough-feeling ends look smoother, but it cannot permanently mend split ends. Regular trims remain part of caring for visibly split ends.
Which treatment should I use for a dry or flaky scalp?
Flake Off is Lil J’s scalp-focused pre-wash treatment. Apply it to the dry scalp following its directions, leave for 30 minutes, then shampoo twice and condition once.
Our dry, flaky or itchy scalp care guide can help you explore your routine.
When might I notice a difference?
You may notice changes in softness, shine or manageability after using the treatment. Results vary with your hair or scalp, the amount applied and your overall routine. Consistent use gives you a better opportunity to assess how it suits you.
Does a pre-wash treatment replace shampoo or conditioner?
No. A pre-wash treatment is an additional step before cleansing. Shampoo washes the treatment out, and conditioner completes your wash-day routine.
Do I need to buy a complete Lil J hair system?
You can start with a pre-wash treatment on its own and follow it with your usual shampoo and conditioner. For a coordinated Lil J routine, choose the matching hair system, which includes treatment, shampoo and conditioner.
Can men use Lil J pre-wash treatments?
Yes. Lil J pre-wash treatments are suitable for all genders. Choose according to your hair type or scalp needs.
Are Lil J pre-wash treatments Australian made?
Yes. Lil J’s pre-wash hair treatments are made in Australia.
Are Lil J pre-wash treatments vegan and cruelty-free?
Yes. All four Lil J pre-wash treatments are vegan and cruelty-free.
Are Lil J pre-wash treatments naturally derived?
Yes. Lil J’s pre-wash treatments are formulated with naturally derived ingredients. You can find the full ingredient list on each treatment’s product page.