Buzz
During the pandemic, TikTok hair experts popularized the 'no ‘poo' trend, urging people to skip washing to restore their scalp’s natural oil balance. (Spoiler: That’s not how it works—hair oil production is hormone-driven, not influenced by external factors.) The internet is flooded with conflicting advice on hair washing frequency, often pushed by influencers or beauty publications, and we eagerly consume it to justify our reluctance to wash. But the burning question remains: How often should we really wash our hair?
It’s a Personal Decision
Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Hair washing frequency depends on various factors. For example, if you wear extensions, the instructions often advise against daily washing to protect both natural and synthetic hair. Your hair type and styling preferences also influence the schedule. Texture matters—coarse hair typically requires washing once a week or every 10 days, unless you’re highly active and need more frequent washes. Shorter hair can handle more frequent washing without damage. According to Krista MacKinnon, a stylist from the Midwest, it’s best to wash before styling appointments, but for special events, your hair should be at least a day unwashed.
But what if you’re not visiting the barber or prepping for a party with a curling iron? The advice differs here as well. Per WebMD, some stylists suggest stretching the time between washes as much as possible, though this requires some trial and error to determine what works best for you.
“Curls, coils, or blonde hair can often go longer between washes to avoid drying out the ends,” MacKinnon explained, emphasizing that shampooing and heat styling can strip moisture and cause damage. “For drier hair, extending the time between washes and using oils or serums for hydration is ideal.”
In general, the thicker your hair, the less frequently you should—or can—wash it. Bleached hair can become overly dry with frequent washing, while colored hair may lose its vibrancy faster. If your hair is fine or you exercise daily, you might need to wash more often. MacKinnon suggests a routine of every two to four days but stresses that this depends entirely on the individual’s preferences and hair condition.
What does science say?
Shampoo removes oils and dirt from your hair, but a certain amount of oil is essential for healthy hair. As WebMD notes, shampoo can also trap oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage over time.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, excessive hair washing can dry out your scalp, causing itchiness and even hair loss. On the flip side, not washing enough can lead to dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis, potentially requiring medicated shampoos—some over-the-counter, others prescription-based. The Clinic advises using dry shampoo between washes, prioritizing conditioning treatments, and shampooing only the roots to prevent excessive dryness.
Additionally, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights that washing your scalp can prevent ringworm after contact with an infected person or animal, as well as reduce the risk of head lice.
So, what’s the verdict?
While all this information is fascinating, it doesn’t provide a one-size-fits-all answer. The key takeaway is this: Considering all these factors, washing your hair around twice a week is generally a good rule of thumb. Plan your washes around your weekly schedule, allow time for proper cleaning, conditioning, and drying, and always keep dry shampoo handy.
