FOR HOSPITAL STAYS

Nilaqua Rinse Free Shampoo Cap, £2.71, boots.com EACh fabric cap has a thick, gel- like layer of shampoo that does not need to be rinsed. instead, it can simply be rubbed away using a towel.

With your hair tucked inside the cap, you rub gently for a few minutes, until you feel the whole scalp has been saturated with the shampoo. The cap is then taken off and the hair rubbed dry with a towel. The cap can first be heated in a microwave for a warm wash, too. EXPERT COMMENT: ‘These are really useful if you’re in hospital or bed- bound after surgery,’ says helen Rushton, an occupational therapist.

‘ But you still need to be able to reach and rub your hair, or have someone who can do it for you.’