You’ve probably seen it everywhere – hair care tips that promise the secret to perfect curls.
Some say that washing your hair daily is the key to cleanliness, while others advocate shampoo-free days to “let your hair breathe.” But with so many different opinions, how do you know what’s best for your hair? The truth is, it’s not as simple as following the latest trend or product recommendation.
In fact, washing your hair too often or not enough could do more harm than good. Before you reach for that bottle of shampoo, let’s dive deeper into what the experts really say about the best way to wash—and protect—your hair.
Washing your hair is a routine that most of us follow regularly, but with all the new products and trends in hair care, it can quickly become overwhelming. Everyone claims to have the best method, and many people seem to be convinced. Some people are adamant about washing their hair every day, others don’t know it, and some people even avoid shampoo altogether. So what is the best approach? Let’s consult with experts to give you the most accurate advice.
Daily hair washing
For some, there is nothing like the feeling of freshly washed hair, and it can feel dirty if you don’t wash it daily. However, excessive washing can disrupt the natural oils that keep your hair hydrated and healthy. “Frequent washing can strip hair of essential oils, leaving it dry and brittle, and can even irritate the scalp,” warns Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology.
Wash more often
Hair care goes beyond shampooing – it’s also about scalp care. As dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu on TikTok, it’s important not to wash your hair for more than a few days. Contrary to the belief that you can “train” your hair to not get greasy, the idea that the scalp cleans itself is simply a myth.
“We know that sebum and dead skin can build up and contribute to the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which leads to dandruff and inflammation,” explains Dr. Liu. “Even just sebum can cause oxidative stress and create an unhealthy environment for hair growth.” Dr. Liu advises people with hair loss to focus on maintaining a healthy scalp to promote hair growth.
Wash less often
Cosmetic chemist Perry Romanowski, co-founder of The Beauty Brains, explains that wet hair swells and is more prone to damage. “When you apply shampoo or conditioner, it can cause friction that damages the hair cuticle, leading to dullness, difficulty detangling, and an increased risk of split ends.” Therefore, it is better to avoid washing your hair too often.
Some people may be more vulnerable to this kind of damage, especially those with fragile hair. Integrative dermatologist Elizabeth Hughes notes that people with particularly fine hair would prefer to only wash every other week. “Everyone’s hair is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution,” she says.
It all depends on your hair.
The best way to keep your hair clean ultimately depends on your individual hair type, lifestyle,e and scalp condition. For example, people with oily scalps or those who exercise frequently may need to wash their hair every day or every other day.
On the other hand, people with dry hair may find that less frequent washing works best for them. People with sensitive scalps should be careful as excessive washing can lead to irritation.
While experts sometimes offer slightly conflicting advice, here are some general guidelines to help you figure out your routine: Kasey Bertucci, hairstylist and co-founder of Salon 120 West, recommends washing every two to three days for those who like frequent washing. People with curly or drier hair can go five to seven days without washing, and the American Academy of Dermatology suggests that people with textured hair wash weekly or even every other week. It is often necessary to experiment with different procedures and hair care products to find what works best for you.
More hair care tips
Dr. Liu doesn’t recommend using olive oil to moisturize your scalp because it hasn’t been shown to be effective. Instead, try coconut oil to condition hair and reduce damage.
Anti-dandruff shampoo should not be used daily as it can dry out the scalp and make hair frizzy. Use two to three times a week, leave on for five minutes before rinsing.
People with colored hair should wash less often and use sulfate-free moisturizing shampoos.
People with thinning hair may need to wash more often, but avoid products containing certain ingredients such as dimethicone.
Frequent use of styling products can cause build-up, leading to damage and irritation. If you style your hair often, you may need to wash it more often.
When shampooing, focus on cleaning the scalp as rinsing will wash the ends of the hair.
Finally, don’t overdo it with the shampoo – a small amount the size of a raspberry is usually enough to clean your scalp and hair.
In conclusion, finding the right hair-washing routine ultimately depends on your individual hair type, lifestyle, and scalp needs. While some prefer to wash their hair daily, others may benefit from less frequent washing to avoid damage or dryness. Experts agree that maintaining a healthy scalp is key to promoting healthy hair growth, and factors such as oiliness, hair texture, and sensitivity are important to consider.
The best approach is to experiment with different frequencies and products to find what works best for you. Remember that consistency and scalp care are essential to achieving healthy and manageable hair.