There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and dermatologists agree that the “every 2 days” or “every 4 days” rule is a myth. How often you should wash your hair depends mainly on your scalp type, hair texture, and lifestyle.
Here’s what dermatologists generally recommend:
🧴 If You Have an Oily Scalp
Wash: Daily or every other day
- Oil (sebum) builds up quickly.
- Skipping washes too long can lead to itching, flakes, or clogged follicles.
- Use a gentle shampoo designed for frequent use.
🌿 If You Have a Normal Scalp
Wash: Every 2–3 days
- Enough to remove buildup.
- Avoid over-washing, which can dry the scalp.
🌵 If You Have a Dry Scalp or Curly/Coily Hair
Wash: Every 3–7 days
- Curly and coily hair tends to be drier because natural oils travel down the hair shaft more slowly.
- Over-washing can increase dryness and breakage.
🏃 If You Exercise Frequently
- Sweat itself isn’t dirty, but it can irritate the scalp.
- You may need to wash more often or rinse between washes.
❄️ If You Have Dandruff or Scalp Conditions
- You may need more frequent washing with medicated shampoo.
- For conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, dermatologists often recommend regular cleansing.
🚫 Signs You’re Washing Too Often
- Dry, brittle hair
- Itchy, tight scalp
- Increased oil production (rebound effect)
🚫 Signs You’re Not Washing Enough
- Greasy roots
- Persistent itching
- Flakes or buildup
- Unpleasant odor
💡 Dermatologist Bottom Line
Wash your hair based on your scalp’s needs, not a fixed calendar rule.
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp — and that varies from person to person.
If you’d like, tell me your hair type and scalp condition, and I’ll give you a personalized washing schedule.
