There’s a lot of debate about how often you should wash your hair to keep it strong and healthy [1]. Some believe washing your hair everyday can make your hair fall out, while others worry that not washing your hair will cause hair loss.
So what’s the truth? Does not washing your hair cause hair loss? Find out how frequently you should wash your hair to minimise hair loss and maintain healthy, shiny hair.
While the research into hair washing frequency and hair loss is minimal, one study has found that low wash frequency may be associated with increased hair loss [1]. That’s because washing your hair less often can increase sebum (the natural oil produced by your scalp) and scalp sensitivity.
This chart shows how hair loss and texture can be affected by wash frequency. Washing your hair less than once a week resulted in the highest levels of hair loss:
Meanwhile, daily washing resulted in the lowest perceived rates of hair loss. This suggests it’s better to wash your hair more frequently if you’re concerned about hair loss.
While hair texture is affected to a lesser extent, this also suggests hair that’s washed more often is less brittle (although hair smoothness is associated with less frequent washing).
Lower shampoo wash frequency may also lead to conditions like dandruff [2]. It can also lead to seborrheic dermatitis, particularly in those with Black hair types.
Washing your hair regularly keeps it clean and promotes good scalp health. Most people should wash their hair at least every two to three days.
How often you wash your hair can depend on your hair type, texture, and styling preferences. Those with tightly coiled hair may find their hair becomes drier with more frequent washing.
Additionally, if you’ve had chemical treatments or a hair transplant, you may be advised to wash your hair on a specific schedule. Find out more about washing your hair after a hair transplant.
It may seem like washing your hair makes your hair fall out in the shower. But remember that it’s normal to lose some hair: people with healthy hair lose up to 100 hairs every day, many of which are loosened and removed in the shower [3].
However, if you see a sudden or gradual increase in the amount of hair coming out in the shower, you may have a hair loss condition. Note that this probably isn’t triggered by hair washing — it’s much more likely to have another underlying cause.
If you’re already seeing the early signs of hair loss, it can be tempting to avoid washing your hair or reducing wash frequency to prevent more hair from coming out in the shower.
Unfortunately, not washing your hair won’t stop your hair from falling out if you have male pattern baldness. Your hair will shed regardless of whether you wash it, and as the research shows, washing your hair regularly may actually reduce hair shedding.
If you’re concerned about hair loss, consider switching to a medicated shampoo to help minimise shedding and promote regrowth. The following options may improve symptoms of hair loss:
No, it’s generally better to wash your hair more often.
One study found that increasing hair wash frequency could result in less flaking, redness, itchiness, and scalp fungi that lead to dandruff and other scalp problems [1].
Not washing your hair for three weeks or more will result in a buildup of oil, grease, and hair products on your scalp. This can make your hair look greasy and may make your scalp feel tender, itchy, and even painful.
This image shows the difference in buildup after a week of not washing your hair, and daily washing:
The “no-poo” hair-washing movement is growing in popularity. This involves washing your hair with products other than standard shampoos, such as baking soda, apple cider vinegar, or just water.
However, there’s currently no evidence that this removes scalp buildup effectively, or that it’s better for your hair and scalp than regular shampoo.
While having an unclean scalp can feel uncomfortable, it’s not a direct cause of hair loss.
However, scalp buildup can cause infection that leads to folliculitis, or hair follicle inflammation [4]. Severe folliculitis may result in hair loss and even scarring on the scalp, so regular hair washing is important to remove excess oil and scalp buildup.
Research shows that washing your hair more frequently is less likely to result in hair loss. But how often should you wash your hair if you want to stimulate growth
Unfortunately, there’s limited research into wash frequency for hair growth. But it appears that more frequent washing is better for hair in general, so it’s a good idea to wash your hair at least once every two to three days to keep your hair and scalp healthy.
If you’re using a medicated shampoo, use it as instructed by your doctor.
Those who don’t wash their hair often may see more hair shedding than those who give their scalp a regular scrub. But it’s unlikely that this is the only or even main cause of hair loss.
Some common causes of hair loss include:
If you’re not sure what’s behind your hair loss, it’s time to speak to a professional. Consider speaking to your GP to rule out any underlying conditions, then book a free consultation at the Wimpole Clinic to diagnose and treat your hair loss.
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