Some people say wash every day, others say only twice a week. Who is right? The honest answer is that there is no single rule. How often you should wash depends mostly on your scalp, your hair type and your lifestyle.
What Washing Does
Shampooing removes oil, sweat, dust and product buildup from the scalp. Wash too little and the scalp can feel greasy, itchy or flaky. Wash too much, especially with a strong shampoo, and the scalp and hair can become dry.
A General Guide
These are rough starting points, not strict rules:
- Oily scalp or fine hair: every day or every second day.
- Normal hair: two to three times a week.
- Dry, thick or curly hair: once or twice a week, since these types hold on to oil less easily.
- After exercise or sweating a lot, or in hot and dusty weather: you may need to wash more often.
- With dandruff: follow the instructions on your dandruff shampoo, or ask a doctor.
How to Tell It Is Time
If your roots look flat and greasy, your scalp feels itchy or has an odor, it is probably time to wash. If your hair feels dry, rough or tangled, you may be washing too often.
If You Want to Wash Less Often
Your scalp can adjust, but it takes time. Stretch the gap by a day at a time, and give it a few weeks. A light dry shampoo can help in between, but don’t use it for long stretches, as it can build up on the scalp.
Washing Tips
- Use lukewarm water. Very hot water can dry out the scalp.
- Focus shampoo on the scalp. The lather will clean the lengths as it rinses off.
- Condition the lengths and ends, not the roots.
- Rinse thoroughly, since leftover product can cause buildup and itching.
- Pat dry with a soft towel instead of rubbing.
Common Mistakes
- Using too much shampoo
- Scrubbing the scalp hard with nails
- Skipping conditioner on dry hair
- Going too long between washes if you have dandruff or an oily scalp
The Short Version
There is no perfect number. Wash when your scalp needs it, use a gentle shampoo and lukewarm water, and adjust for your hair type and the weather.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. See our Disclaimer for details.
