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Everyday hair care with a hijab or helmet
Keep the hairstyle underneath comfortable, and leave time to wash and dry.
If you wear a hijab, another covering or a helmet, plan the wash for a time when you can finish it, including drying. A style that hurts is too tight. Arrange the hair, then check that it still feels comfortable. Discomfort is a reason to change the arrangement, not a normal part of getting ready. The AAD discusses tension from hairstyles here: hairstyles and tension. This is about how the hair is arranged. It is not a reason to stop wearing a covering you prefer.
A motorcycle, cycling or work helmet is safety equipment. Follow its fit instructions. Do not loosen straps, remove required padding or add anything that changes the fit for the sake of a hairstyle. If the usual arrangement makes the helmet uncomfortable, choose another arrangement that still allows the correct fit.
Shampoo: wet, apply, 2–3 minute gentle massage, thorough rinse, gentle towel-dry, cool or medium dryer if needed. Tonic, if you use it: after towel-drying, sections on the scalp, 2–3 minutes, leave in. Do that before you tie or cover the hair. If scalp discomfort continues, speak to a doctor rather than tightening the style to hide it.