The age-old question of how often one should wash their hair has long plagued individuals seeking the perfect hair care routine. According to Michele Green, MD, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City, the answer is far from one-size-fits-all. Overwashing can strip the hair of its natural oils, prompting the body to produce even more scalp oil, while underwashing can lead to an unpleasant buildup of grease, sweat, and hair product, she explains.
Finding that elusive balance, however, is entirely possible and largely depends on your specific hair type and lifestyle. For those with greasy hair, frequent washing—potentially even several times a week—is the norm, and double shampooing might be the solution. On the other hand, those with dry, coarse, or textured hair should avoid overwashing, as it can lead to dryness, and double cleansing may not always be advisable.
To provide clarity on this often-confusing topic, Glamour sought advice from top dermatologists and hairstylists, covering the nuances of shampooing and conditioning for each hair type and offering guidance on when and how to employ clarifying shampoo. The goal is to empower individuals to confidently adapt their hair care routine without resorting to frequent Google searches for “How often should you wash your hair?”
Paul Labrecque, creative director, master stylist, and colorist at Paul Labrecque Salon and Skincare Spa, highlights a fairly universal rule: shampoo only when your hair is genuinely dirty. “Your own oil flow will determine this, and since every person is different, that timing will differ for each individual,” Labrecque advises.
For various hair types, experts weigh in:
Thin and Oily Hair:
For those with thin and oily hair, frequent washing may be necessary, potentially every other day or every third day. According to celebrity hairstylist Min Kim, the scalp’s oil production can easily weigh down thin hair, giving it a greasy appearance. Shampoos formulated for oily hair, such as Biologique Recherche’s Shampooing Traitant Sébo-Rééquilibrant, are recommended.
Medium-Oiliness Hair:
Hair with an average level of oiliness can typically be washed every two to three days. The frequency of shampooing and conditioning should be determined by the texture and feel of your hair, says celebrity hairstylist Jennifer Korab. Pureology Hydrate is one recommended option suitable for all hair types.
Thick and Dry Hair:
Individuals with thick and dry hair often enjoy longer intervals between washes, sometimes going a week or more without shampooing. Frequent washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, worsening dryness. Products like L’Oréal’s Metal Detox are suggested by Kim. For those with thick hair, the Better Not Younger Bounce Back Super Moisturizing Shampoo is a trusted choice.
Textured and Curly Hair:
Textured or curly hair is inherently drier than straight hair and can be washed less frequently, often just once a week or even less often. Overwashing can lead to frizz and dryness due to natural oil depletion. L’Oréal Professionnel Curl Expression Anti Buildup Shampoo is recommended for curly hair. An alternative well-liked by Glamour editors is Briogeo’s Curl Charisma Hydrating Shampoo.
In the quest for optimal hair care, understanding one’s unique hair type is key to achieving the right balance between maintaining hair health and cleanliness. No longer will you need to scour the internet for answers to the question, “How often should you wash your hair?” with these expert insights at your disposal.
