Our hair preferences are ever-changing: longer when it's short, darker when it's light, straight when it's wavy. But one key question persists—how often should you shampoo? Well+Good consulted experts for definitive answers on weekly hair washing frequency (spotted by our Version Femina colleagues, whom we thank).
Frequency depends on hair type. Straight hair gets greasy faster than curly, notes trichologist Kevin Mancuso (a specialist in hair science). Dermatologist Shirley Chi adds: "If you don't sweat much, straight or wavy hair needs washing two to three times a week." For very curly or afro hair, "once every seven to ten days" suffices.
Hair nature, plus factors like pollution, dust, and sweat, dictate the ideal routine. Balance is key: "Over-washing prompts more sebum from your scalp, while under-washing causes grease buildup," says Mancuso. His tip: "If your hair dirties at the nape or scalp's back, you're not washing correctly." Now you know!
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