How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? A Hairstylist Explains

By Kara Penley, Professional Hairstylist

“How often should you wash your hair?” is one of the most common questions I hear in the salon—and the honest answer might surprise you.

There isn’t a universal schedule that works for everyone. How often you should shampoo depends on your scalp, hair type, lifestyle, and the products you’re using. Healthy hair starts with understanding your scalp—not following trends.

Why Hair Washing Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

Your scalp is skin, and just like facial skin, it produces oil at different rates. Some scalps need more frequent cleansing, while others thrive with fewer washes.

Factors that influence how often you should wash your hair include:

• Scalp oil production

• Hair texture and density

• Physical activity and sweating

• Product buildup

• Environment and seasonal changes

Two people can use the same shampoo and need completely different wash schedules.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair by Scalp Type

Oily or Sweat-Prone Scalp

You may need to wash your hair every 1–2 days if:

• Your roots feel greasy quickly

• You work out regularly

• Your scalp feels itchy or heavy

Washing more often does not damage your hair when you’re using professional products and proper technique.

Normal or Balanced Scalp

You may do best washing every 2–3 days if:

• Your scalp feels comfortable between washes

• You don’t experience excess oil or dryness

• Your hair maintains volume and shine

This is a common range for many clients.

Dry or Sensitive Scalp

You may benefit from washing every 3–5 days if:

• Your scalp feels tight or flaky

• Your hair becomes dry easily

• You experience sensitivity or irritation

Product choice and conditioning technique are especially important in this category.

Hair Type Still Matters

While your scalp determines when you wash, your hair type affects how you wash.

• Fine hair may require more frequent cleansing

• Thick or coarse hair often tolerates longer intervals

• Curly or textured hair may retain moisture longer

The goal is balance—not pushing washes too far apart at the expense of scalp health.

Washing Frequency vs. Washing Technique

How often you wash your hair is important—but how you wash it plays an equally big role in scalp health and overall hair quality. Water temperature, where you apply shampoo and conditioner, and whether you cleanse once or twice can all impact buildup, shine, and balance. I’ll be breaking down the proper way to shampoo and condition your hair in an upcoming post, because healthy hair always starts with the right technique.

The Most Common Hair Washing Mistake

Many people try to “train” their hair by washing less often, but this can lead to:

• Product buildup

• Scalp irritation

• Dull or heavy hair

• Increased shedding

A clean, balanced scalp creates the best environment for healthy hair growth.

So, How Often

Should

You Wash Your Hair?

Here’s the advice I give every client:

Wash your hair as often as your scalp needs it, using the right products and proper technique.

Healthy hair isn’t about washing less—it’s about washing correctly.

Coming Next: Why Scalp Health Changes Everything

If your hair still feels dull, itchy, thin, or unmanageable, scalp health may be the missing piece.

In the next post, I’ll explain why scalp health directly impacts hair growth, thickness, and shine—and how to improve it.

Still unsure how often you should be washing your hair?

Hair and scalp needs are highly individual, and a personalized routine makes all the difference. If your hair still feels dry, dull, or unmanageable, a professional consultation can help create a routine that supports long-term hair health.

Coming next: How to properly shampoo and condition your hair for healthier results.