Helping your autistic twins take care of their hair can be quite a challenge. Many of the issues related to hair are due to either anxiety or sensory processing needs. The more you know about this, the better you can help your twins care for their hair. In this series, we will talk about three areas that can be difficult for autistic twins: hair washing, brushing and hair cuts.

A bit of investigation can go a long way

Your twins, triplets or quadruplets may have very different hair, especially if they are fraternal. If so, they may have different colors, textures and how long they can go in between washes before it looks dirty or greasy. They may also have very different attitudes towards washing their hair, where one twin never wants to get out of the shower, and the other never wants to get in!

Giving them control over the process might help a reluctant twin get their hair washed. Do they prefer a bath or shower? Or what about a shower seat, so they can still shower but sit down? Would they prefer to stand over the sink or tub and lean in for their hair washed? Do they want to go first or let their twin go first, or do they want to go in together? Do some trial and error to find out what works best for them.

Many autistic adults talk about the trauma of showers or hair washing. Sometimes this can be because the water is coming from above, so it is more unpredictable. If possible, try to get a shower that has a detachable nozzle that can also be height adjusted. Some showers come with massage heads that allow you to control the water pressure. Allow your twins to try different things to see what they like. You can also experiment with different temperatures to see if your twins prefer warmer or cooler water.

Do your twins have a favorite character or scent? You might be able to alleviate bath time stress by using Harry Potter or Disney shampoo. Take them shopping and let them pick out their own character or scent. Scents like lavender can be relaxing, while citrus or mint can be refreshing or revitalizing.

Sometimes using equipment can help. For example, you can buy foam or plastic caps or visors that are designed to keep hair out of children’s faces or off their ears. Some parents use wet washcloths on the top of their twins head to get the hair wet without getting everything else wet too.

Depending on their age, your twins may like bath toys, crayons or anything else that can distract them while you are washing their hair. If they are older, they might like sensory lights or a shower radio to turn your bathroom into a dance party.

If you really can’t convince them to get their hair wet, try dry shampoo. You can buy this in most drug stores, or use a homemade version such as cornflower or run some oats through a blender to get a fine powder. Use your hands to sprinkle the dry shampoo into the hair, being sure to get the roots or other areas that tend to be greasy. Brush the dry shampoo through and be sure to watch for any areas on the hair that look patchy or powdery.

Speciality equipment that used to only be found in hospitals is making its way online. You can now buy hair wipes, non-rinse shampoo and even shower caps that come with either foam or dry shampoo already inside. Although these products seem like they might be more complicated than other methods discussed here, it may be just what your twins need so give it a try.

Although not ideal, some parents rely on swimming or using a hot tub to at least get their autistic child to get their hair wet. If swimming is enjoyable and seems like a reward, they may be more likely to tolerate a quick rinse off and wash while in their swimsuit.

What suggestions do you have to share about washing your autistic twins’ hair? Share your thoughts in the comments below and be sure to follow the blog for the next article in this series.

This website uses affiliate links. I may make a small commission from purchases when you use these links, at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.