There’s something undeniably refreshing about that squeaky-clean, post-shampoo feeling, but how often should you really wash your hair? The answer varies, and it might be less often than you think. Over-washing can strip your hair of essential oils, leaving it dry and brittle, while under-washing can lead to oil buildup and scalp irritation. Let’s dive into expert opinions to find the right balance for your hair type and lifestyle.
The Basics: Understanding Your Hair and Scalp
Shampooing traps oils and dirt, but doing it too frequently can leave your hair prone to breakage and your scalp irritated. “Washing your hair too often can make the hair dry and brittle and lead to irritation of the scalp,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s department of dermatology. When wet, hair swells and becomes more vulnerable, which can damage the hair
cuticle and lead to dull, unmanageable hair.
Factors Influencing Wash Frequency
1. Hair Type and Texture
Oily Hair: Those with fine, straight hair may find they need to wash more frequently as oil spreads quickly along the hair shaft, making it look greasy.
Dry or Curly Hair: Curly or coarse hair tends to be drier because oils take longer to travel down the hair shaft. These hair types can usually go longer between washes.
Color-Treated Hair: To preserve color, opt for sulfate-free shampoos and reduce wash frequency to every three days.
2. Lifestyle and Activity Level
Exercise: Frequent exercisers who sweat a lot might need to wash their hair more often. However, using dry shampoo can help manage oil without stripping your hair of moisture.
Environment: Living in a humid area or a city with high pollution levels might necessitate more frequent washing to keep hair feeling clean.
3. Age and Hormones
Youth and Middle Age: Younger individuals and those in their 20s and 30s tend to have more active oil glands, requiring more frequent washing.
Older Adults: Sebum production decreases with age, meaning older adults may need to wash their hair less often.
Expert Recommendations
Perry Romanowski, a cosmetic chemist, emphasizes focusing on the scalp rather than the ends when shampooing. “You don’t need to pull it through your mids and ends because it will be washed out that way.”
Kasey Bertucci, hairstylist and cofounder of Salon 120 West, suggests:
Normal to Oily Hair: Every two to three days.
Dry or Curly Hair: Every five to seven days.
Dr. Elizabeth Hughes, a Seattlebased dermatologist, notes, “You should wash your hair once it’s oily and feels unclean to the touch.” However, she adds that the specific needs vary widely among individuals.
Alternative Hair Washing Methods
1. Dry Shampoo: Perfect for extending time between washes, dry shampoo absorbs excess oil and adds volume.
2. Co-Washing: Washing with conditioner or “cleansing conditioners” is great for curly or dry hair, providing moisture without stripping natural oils.
3. Water-Only Washing: While less common, some advocate for using only water to rinse out dirt and sweat, maintaining natural oils.
Practical Tips for Healthier Hair
Use Conditioner: Always follow up shampoo with conditioner to protect hair from damage and make it easier to comb.
Avoid Over-Washing: Try to reduce shampoo frequency gradually to see how your hair adapts.
Focus on Quality: Invest in a good conditioner, as it has a more significant impact on hair health than shampoo.
Clarifying Shampoos: Use these once or twice a month to remove product buildup if you frequently use styling products.
Bottom Line
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to how often you should wash your hair. It depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Experiment with different routines and products to find what works best for you. Remember, the goal is to maintain a balance that keeps your hair clean and healthy without stripping it of the natural oils it needs to thrive.