The frequency with which you should use shampoo depends largely on your hair type, scalp condition, and lifestyle:
- Fine or oily hair/scalp: Shampooing every day or every other day is typically recommended because oil travels quickly along fine, straight hair, causing it to look greasy faster
- Thick, coarse, curly, or chemically treated hair: These hair types usually benefit from less frequent washing, about once a week or every few days, as they tend to be drier and overwashing can cause dryness and damage
- Wavy or curly hair: Washing about once or twice a week is generally ideal to prevent dryness and maintain hair health
- Dry scalp: Shampooing once or twice a week is often sufficient to avoid further drying out the scalp
- Dandruff or oily scalp issues: More frequent washing, around three to four times a week or even daily, with a dandruff-specific shampoo may be necessary to control flakes and oil buildup
- Lifestyle factors: If you sweat a lot or are exposed to dirt and pollutants, you might need to wash your hair more often regardless of hair type
In general, most experts suggest washing hair every two to three days as a good rule of thumb, adjusting based on how your hair looks and feels
. Overwashing can strip natural oils, leading to dryness and scalp irritation, so balancing is key. Summary:
Hair/Scalp Type| Recommended Shampoo Frequency
---|---
Fine/Oily| Daily or every other day
Thick/Coarse/Curly| Once a week or every few days
Wavy/Curly| 1-2 times per week
Dry Scalp| Once or twice a week
Dandruff/Oily Scalp| 3-4 times per week or daily with medicated shampoo
Adjust based on personal needs and hair condition, using dry shampoo as a temporary solution if needed
