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Scheduling hair wash day can feel like trying to solve a math equation. But the real question isn’t when I should wash my hair, it’s how often.
To answer the age-old question, E! connected with Lead Scalp Health Expert and Board-Certified Trichologist at Nutrire, Nelida D’Alessandro.
- Best oily scalp shampoo: Kristin Ess Hair One Signature Shampoo
- Best dry scalp shampoo: Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo
- Best scalp exfoliating product: R+Co Bleu Scalp Therapy Pre-Shampoo Exfoliating Scrub
How often should I wash my hair?
Naturally, it’s complicated. “The honest answer is that there's no universal rule,” admits D’Alessandro.
While frequency depends on many factors, she says most people do well washing their hair two to three times per week, based on her expertise.
However, scalp type, lifestyle, and product usage can play a huge role in how often people should wash their hair.
In terms of scalp type, “An oilier scalp will need more frequent cleansing, while a drier scalp benefits from less,” notes D’Alessandro.
Similarly, “Hair texture is also relevant, as finer hair tends to show oil more quickly, while coarser or curlier textures can go longer between washes.”
If you’re very active (aka regularly breaking a sweat at the gym) or use a lot of heavy styling products, you’ll likely experience more buildup and therefore, need to wash more often.
Ultimately, “The goal is to keep the scalp clean and balanced without stripping it,” says D’Alessandro.
How do I keep my hair from getting greasy?
The key to preventing oily strands is ensuring that all buildup is removed when washing your hair.
“A clarifying or balancing shampoo used consistently is the most effective tool” in balancing and regulating oil production, according to D’Alessandro.
“For more significant buildup, incorporating a scalp exfoliant periodically can help,particularly if you sweat a lot or use heavy hair products daily.
Can I over wash my hair?
The short answer is yes. “Over washing can also lead to dryness, irritation, and a compromised scalp barrier over time,” says D’Alessandro.
Washing too frequently, especially with harsh formulas, can strip the scalp of its natural oils. When that happens, the scalp often overcorrects by producing even more oil, which creates a frustrating cycle,” she explains.
Now that you know how often you should wash your hair, it’s time to upgrade your hair wash routine with these expert-approved products.
What are the best shampoo for oily scalps?
Kristin Ess Hair One Signature Shampoo
Perfect for all hair types, this shampoo is infused with apple cider vinegar for removing buildup and hydrolyzed keratin to strengthen, it leaves your hair shiny and smooth while balancing your scalp's pH.
OUAI Detox Clarifying Shampoo
Perfect for all hair types, this shampoo is infused with apple cider vinegar for removing buildup and hydrolyzed keratin to strengthen, it leaves your hair shiny and smooth while balancing your scalp's pH.
Nutrire S.3 Balance
D’Alessandro calls this shampoo "a good option for oilier scalps dealing with buildup." It utilizes lactic acid to balance and regulate oil production.
What are the best shampoos for dry scalps?
Top Rated
Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo
The moisture-balancing formula of this fan-favorite shampoo provides a gentle cleanse while boosting overall shine. Plus, it smells amazing.
L'Oreal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Shampoo
Achieve bouncier, fuller hair with this budget-friendly shampoo that individually plumps and hydrates each strand of hair thanks to a hyaluronic acid-rich formula.
BondiBoost Heavenly Hydration Shampoo
This aloe based shampoo intensely hydrates dry, damaged hair while also taming frizz and balancing the scalps pH levels.
What are the best products for scalp exfoliation?
Editor's Pick
R+Co Bleu Scalp Therapy Pre-Shampoo Exfoliating Scrub
Whenever I've applied tons of styling products to my hair, I use pre-shampoo scrub to help dissolve oil, dirt, and product buildup. It combines physical (sugar crystals) and chemical (AHAs) exfoliants for a double duty detox.
The INKEY List Salicylic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Treatment
Minimize excess oil production and exfoliate dead skin cells with this salicylic acid-infused pre-wash that's particularly effective if you're struggling with a flaky, itchy scalp.
Nizoral Pre-Shampoo Scalp Build-Up Remover
Micro-exfoliating technology makes this an effective pre-shampoo treatment. It's designed to effortlessly remove scalp buildup and prep the scalp for thorough washing.
Pacifica Scalp Detox Tonic
Prior to shampooing, go in with this detoxifying hair rinse. A blend of clarifying apple cider vinegar, anti-inflammatory rosemary oil, and exfoliating acids target congested hair follicles to loosen clogged pores to remove oil and product buildup.
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