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Geologie Co-Wash
Two supremely hydrating rinses for the infrequent shampooer—or the hair care minimalist.
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Why It Stands Out
Here is a brilliant common denominator in hair care—and with two options at that.
Few shampoos and conditioners are universal. What works well for me isn’t going to necessarily fare well with your hair. On top of that, we all wash our hair with different cadences, whether it’s based on the products we’re using to style hairs, the oil levels on our scalp, personal preferences, and whatnot. This is the idea behind co-washes: Think of these as 90% conditioner, 10% shampoo. Co-washes “buy time” between washes, so that you don’t have to blanche your hair or scalp if all you need is a simple rinsing-out of sweat, oil, and product buildup.
Ok, now I’m simply explaining how co-wash works. What makes Geologies so outstanding is that they could effectively be your sole hair care product, if you are otherwise the guy who uses 2-in-1 products. My issue with most 2-in-1s is they focus on the washing but not the nourishing. A co-wash is the inverse, where it’ll hydrate strands and scalp. Even if you keep your hair super short, here’s a way to keep your scalp refreshed and nourished and to mitigate dandruff buildup. (In fact, I’d suggest even incorporating Geologie’s dandruff shampoo once every few weeks, then just sticking with the co-wash all other times. Perfect solution to temper flakes but keep things soothed.)
That said, in my home, we use these products in between wash days. So, if I shampoo one day, I also use my conditioner on that same day. Then, on the following day, I use this co-wash. The following day, I shampoo/condition (if I’m not otherwise just doing a co-wash rinse). It “buys time” before the next shampoo, which I prefer to use every second or third day at most.
Most people will be satisfied with the green vessel—the aloe-packed Cooling Co-Wash that also balances oil and tempers dandruff thanks to tea tree oil. This one is especially great on short hair, fine hair, and dry scalps.
When I grow my coarse hair out an inch or more, I’m more inclined to reach for the yellow vessel, the Smoothing Co-Wash, which is much denser thanks to coconut and avocado oil; it gives my strands the kind of cuticle-closing frizz reduction they require. So, shop accordingly—most will like green, but coarse strands will like yellow.
Key Ingredients
Cooling Co-Wash (green):
Tea tree oil: provides antimicrobial benefits for the scalp to prevent dandruff
Menthol: stimulates circulation and cools scalp on contact
Panthenol: moisturizes and rinses buildup
Aloe vera: soothes scalp, and promotes healthier and shinier hair
Squalane: hydrates hair and scalp alike
Smoothing Co-Wash (yellow):
Avocado oil: hydrates scalp and provides healthy shine
Coconut oil: nourishes scalp and smoothes strands
Panthenol: moisturizes and rinses buildup
Squalane: hydrates hair and scalp alike
How to Make the Most of It
Apply mere moments before you need it to activate; this cream converts to a powder almost instantly when you massage it in. Just make sure your skin is clean and dry, or you’ll just be smearing it into sweat or trapping dirt and grease underneath). I highly suggest pairing it with some performance boxer briefs, too—ones with breathable, sweat-wicking fabric that also inhibit thigh rub. (For more on those, check out our articles about swamp crotch and chafing.)
It’s great for underboobs, too, if you sweat there, and I’ve even used it as a sweat-proof base layer for acne, if I want to cover up a red spot with concealer but don’t want the product to sweat away. The slightest, most gentle sliver of dab will work wonders as that base layer—just don’t do anything more or you’ll end up with a chalky fingerprint on your face.
How to Use It
Apply to clean, dried skin, but be warned: This will quickly create a chalky, powdery film on skin, so: Careful not to touch any of your clothes with those mitts after use, until your washed hands clean. Otherwise you might have chalky fingerprints on your shirt or trousers. (It all washes out easily, no stress—including from the insides of your shorts or underwear.
Apply it anywhere you accumulate moisture or experience friction. Could be your underbutt if you sit all day at work, or your thighs if you are walking around and run the risk of chafing. Happy Nuts has tons of other comfort-focused powders and rubs, so don’t just limit yourself to this cream (though it is the absolute best product in their lineup, which is saying something, as I wholeheartedly endorse the entire assortment).
