The frequency with which one washes their hair is a matter of personal preference, but a TikTok trend promoting extended periods without hair washing, often referred to as “hair training,” has gained popularity. Some influencers claim that this practice can improve the condition of both hair and scalp. However, it’s crucial to note that there is no scientific evidence supporting this as an effective method for enhancing hair health.
On TikTok, individuals share their hair training journeys, boasting about not washing their hair for weeks and gradually extending the time between washes, aiming for a 30-day gap. While some users report improved hair condition and enhanced shine, experts caution that this practice can have adverse effects, including hair thinning, hair loss, and scalp issues.
How Hair Training Can Contribute to Hair Loss
The concept behind hair training is to reduce the frequency of hair washing, aiming to “train” both the hair and scalp to require less frequent cleansing. Advocates of this practice believe that chemicals like sulfates, commonly found in hair care products, can dry out hair strands, leading to an overproduction of natural oils. They argue that by training the hair and scalp, these will return to their natural, healthier state.
However, Sam Carpenter, global educator at the haircare company EIDEAL, explains that infrequent hair washing can result in an accumulation of oil, dirt, products, and pollutants, leading to flaking, itching, irritation, and inflammation. This, in turn, can contribute to hair loss. Research supports this, with a 2021 study linking low wash frequency to an increased risk of hair loss.
Hair Training and Scalp Health
Neglecting regular hair washing not only affects your hair but also your scalp. Dr. Fariha Anwar, an aesthetic doctor at Euromed Clinic Dubai, warns that infrequent washing can put you at risk of seborrheic dermatitis, a common skin condition that primarily affects the scalp, causing redness, itchiness, and inflammation. Additionally, yeast can thrive on the scalp in the absence of regular cleansing, potentially leading to the development of seborrheic dermatitis. Scratching the itchy scalp can further exacerbate hair loss in some cases.
Determining How Often to Wash Your Hair
The ideal frequency for hair washing varies from person to person. Understanding your scalp health and your specific hair care goals is essential. For those with fine hair, daily washing may be necessary to prevent limpness. People who use a lot of styling products may need to wash more frequently to prevent product buildup. If you have very oily hair, following the American Academy of Dermatology Association’s advice to wash daily might be suitable.
For those unsure about when to wash, looking for signs of buildup on the hair and scalp can guide the decision.
Choosing the Right Hair Washing Products
Selecting the right hair washing products depends on your hair type and condition. Sam Carpenter advises consulting with a hairdresser to identify your specific hair needs. Once you know your hair type, matching it with a product that contains the appropriate active ingredients can help improve or treat any hair-related issues.
For dry and damaged hair, look for products with ingredients like keratin and coconut oil. Curly hair may benefit from products containing glycerin and seed oils, while oily hair responds well to natural ingredients like tea tree oil.
Alternative Ways to Enhance Hair and Scalp Health
If you want to improve your hair health without skipping regular showers, consider reducing the use of hot styling tools and eliminating products that contain sulfates. Regular brushing can also help distribute oils evenly along the hair strands.
In conclusion, the ideal frequency for hair washing is a personal choice, but “hair training” is unlikely to yield positive results for most individuals. In addition to potentially damaging hair health, it can leave hair looking and smelling unclean. For those seeking to improve their hair health, reducing the use of hot styling tools and avoiding sulfate-containing products may be more effective alternatives.
