Lifestyle
Is Your Hair Telling You to Stop? Discover the Top Sign of Overwashing
When it comes to hair care, one of the most common questions is how often to wash it. While there’s no universal answer, experts agree that overwashing can lead to significant issues. As dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Maender explains, “Hair washing is a complicated topic, and there is definitely not a one-size-fits-all recommendation for how frequently a person should wash theirs.” The frequency of washing depends on various factors, including hair type, age, and styling habits.
One of the clearest indicators that you’re washing your hair too often is dryness. Celebrity stylist Tonya Le emphasizes the importance of paying attention to your hair’s condition, stating, “It depends on your hair texture, your natural-oil production, etc. But paying attention to the little signs your hair is giving you can help you come up with the best washing schedule.”
Dry hair often results from stripping away natural oils, leading to a flaky scalp and increased split ends. Le notes, “A total lack of moisture from stripping oils can also cause a dry, flaky scalp and as your scalp dries out so does your hair.” The more frequently you wash, the more susceptible your hair is to damage and breakage, especially when wet.
Another sign of overwashing is dullness. Healthy hair typically has a natural shine, which can diminish when hair lacks moisture. “Shiny hair is healthy hair, so if your hair has no shine, it could mean your hair is not moisturized,” Le points out. Overuse of shampoo can also lead to residue build-up, further dulling the hair’s appearance.
For those with longer hair, dry split ends are a common problem. Dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD, advises, “For those with longer hair, it’s best to focus conditioning treatments on the ends, rather than the roots.” Using natural oils like coconut, olive, or jojoba can be beneficial, but moderation is key. “My recommendation is not to overdo it,” adds Dr. Khetarpal.
A dry scalp, often a result of excessive washing, can lead to dandruff. Le suggests minimizing shampoo sessions to allow the scalp’s natural oils to soothe it. “If it’s dandruff [gets] too intense, a scalp exfoliating treatment along with a tea tree oil scalp treatment will take care of it,” she advises, recommending continued use of dandruff shampoo until the flakes clear.
Determining how often to wash your hair also depends on your hair type. Dr. Maender explains, “People with thick, curly, or long hair should shampoo less frequently, as their hair type tends to not distribute oil as easily down the shaft of the hair.” For African American individuals, whose hair is more prone to dryness and breakage, less frequent washing is advised, ranging from once a week to once every two weeks, provided the scalp remains comfortable.
Ultimately, finding the right balance in your hair-washing routine is crucial to maintaining healthy hair. By recognizing the signs of overwashing, you can adjust your habits to better suit your hair’s needs.
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