Are You Washing Your Hair Too Often? Here's What Stylists Say

When it comes to hair routines, everyone is different. (We all have different textures, lengths, styles, and preferences, so it makes sense!) One of the most varying parts if you look at one person's regimen to another is how often they wash their hair. So, if you're wondering how often you should suds up your tresses, there are a few things you need to look at because it's not a one-size-fits-all situation. "There's not necessarily one universal answer to the 'How often should you wash your hair?' question," says Mara Roszak, owner of Mare Salon in Los Angeles. There are many factors that determine how often you need to get out the shampoo including lifestyle factors like how often you work out, for example. To help you make the most of your hairstyle (especially if you get your hair dyed), here are a few tips to help you determine how often to use shampoo each week to keep your hair healthy and your style looking its best.

ridofranz/Getty Images

If Your Hair Is Dry...

It's also likely thicker and coarser. That texture, coupled with the fact that it is drier, means you can go longer without washing; Roszak suggests washing dry hair three times a week. When you do wash, be sure to opt for a hydrating formula, such as Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo ($24, Amazon.) Because you are shampooing less frequently, though, Roszak recommends a double shampoo, to ensure a thorough cleanse that will remove dirt, oil, and product buildup.

If Your Hair Is Oily...

Your hair is also likely on the finer side because this texture tends to be more prone to getting oily faster, says San Diego stylist and salon owner Jet Rhys. And, yes, that may mean you need to shampoo every other day or even daily. That's okay, as long as you take the appropriate steps not to damage your hair in the process. First and foremost, be sure to choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo (which won't strip your hair or scalp of its natural oils) that's made for oily hair. An excellent option is Kérastase Specifique Shampoo for Oily Scalp ($35, Sephora). In a somewhat cruel and ironic twist, over-shampooing can dry out your scalp, causing it to produce more oil, creating a vicious never-ending cycle. But just as important as which shampoo you use is how you use it. "Make sure you're shampooing your scalp, not your hair," says Rhys. Rather than merely scrunching it into your hair, use your fingertips to massage it into your scalp, and work in circular motions. This is the best way to ensure the shampoo is getting to where it needs to go and can best remove any excess oil, not to mention other gunk and grime. And don't worry, as you rinse the suds, the shampoo will get through the lengths and ends of your hair, too.

If You Work Out Frequently...

We get it. An intense sweat session is enough to make anyone want to wash their hair. If you're working out daily (good for you!) and want to wash your hair daily too, follow the same advice as for oily hair. But, extra sweat doesn't necessarily have to mean additional washes. You might be able to go an extra day in between washes with the help of a dry shampoo, such as Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo ($39, Ulta). Rather than just using it after your workout, try applying it before you exercise, focusing specifically on the roots. It will absorb the sweat as it crops up, keeping your hair from ending up a damp mess. Use more dry shampoo after your workout, and you might just be able to skip a wash and extend your hair's style.

If Your Hair Is Color-Treated...

Breaking news: Water is your hair color's number one worst enemy. Specifically hot water opens the hair cuticle, the outermost layer of the hair, and allows the color molecules to slip right out. So, the less you wash your hair, the better you'll be able to protect your color, and the longer it will last, says Rhys. When you do wash, be sure to pick a color-protectant shampoo and conditioner specifically made for color-treated hair. Try Bumble & bumble's Gentle Shampoo ($27, Sephora) and the Gentle Conditioner ($29, Sephora). Another helpful trick? Dampen your hair with a leave-in conditioner before hopping in the shower. Coating your hair keeps it from absorbing as much water, minimizing the color-fading effects (though don't worry, you'll still be able to get your hair clean). You can use any leave-in conditioner, though we're big fans of the Aquis Water Defense PreWash ($29 Sephora), which is specially formulated for this purpose and also helps minimize damage and frizz. Try this leave-in conditioner technique not only before you wash your hair but also before you hit the pool or ocean to safeguard your hue from the color-stripping chlorine and saltwater.

Washing hair too frequently can strip it of natural oils (and color, if you dye your hair), but how often you suds up depends on your natural hair type, how often you break a sweat, and your styling preferences. Thanks to products like dry shampoo, your second-day 'do can look just as gorgeous as it does on day one.