How Often Should You Shampoo? (Or Should You Ditch Shampoo Altogether?)
How often should you shampoo your hair? Some say daily, others say once a week. The internet is full of conflicting advice, and most of it is outdated.
Too much washing? You’ll dry out your scalp. Too little? Hello, greasy buildup.
Here’s the truth: The right shampoo routine depends on your scalp health, hair type, and lifestyle—not a one-size-fits-all rule.
We are going to dive deeper into the shampoo frequency debate (what no one tells you), so you can find the best routine for you—without endless trial and error.
The Science Behind Shampooing: Why It’s Not Just About Dirt
Shampoo does more than just clean your hair. It removes excess oil, dirt, and product buildup, but if overused, it can strip the scalp’s natural moisture balance.
Your scalp produces natural oils that keep hair hydrated. Harsh shampoos, especially those with sulfates, can trigger your scalp to overproduce oil—leading to greasy roots and dry ends.
The key? Wash just enough to keep your scalp balanced.
How Often Should YOU Wash? (Based on Hair Type)
Fine or Thin Hair
- Gets oily quickly → Shampoo every 1–2 days to maintain volume.
Thick or Coarse Hair
- Holds moisture better → Shampoo 2–3 times per week to prevent buildup.
Curly or Wavy Hair
- Prone to dryness → Shampoo once or twice a week and co-wash in between.
Coily or Textured Hair
- Needs natural oils → Shampoo once a week or less, focus on scalp health.
Lifestyle & Scalp Health: How Your Daily Routine Changes Everything
Your routine impacts how often you should shampoo. Here’s what to consider:
Factor |
How It Affects Shampooing |
Active Lifestyle (Gym, Sports, Sweat) |
Rinse with water or use a mild cleanser after sweating. |
Oily Scalp or Heavy Product User |
Shampoo every 1–2 days to prevent buildup. |
Dry or Sensitive Scalp |
Shampoo less often, focus on scalp hydration instead. |
Colored or Treated Hair |
Frequent washing fades color faster—stick to 2x per week max. |
Signs You’re Washing Too Much (Or Not Enough)
Overwashing Signs
❌ Dry, brittle, or frizzy hair
❌ Scalp irritation or itchiness
❌ Hair color fades quickly
Underwashing Signs
❌ Greasy roots, lifeless strands
❌ Flaky scalp (not dandruff, just buildup)
❌ Persistent scalp odor
The No-Fuss Shampoo Routine for Healthier Hair
Want balanced, healthy hair? Follow this simple routine:
- Choose a pH-balanced, sulfate-free shampoo (like Highland’s The Wash—cleans without stripping).
- Use lukewarm water (not hot!) to prevent overdrying.
- Focus on the scalp, not just the hair strands.
- Rinse thoroughly—product buildup is the enemy.
- Follow with a lightweight conditioner if needed.
Going Longer Between Washes? Here’s How to Make It Work
- Use dry shampoo before bed to absorb overnight oil.
- Flip your part or throw it in a bun on Day 3+.
- Rinse with water or do a light cleanse with The Wash midweek.
- Start your blowouts with clean hair—styles last longer that way.
Why Mainstream Shampoos Are Failing You (And What to Use Instead)
If your hair gets greasy faster after you wash it, that’s not just ‘your hair type’—it’s a sign your shampoo’s wrecking your scalp.
The Wash skips sulfates, so your oil levels chill out.
Related Article: Hair Cleanser vs Shampoo
🚫 What to Avoid:
- Sulfates (SLS, SLES) – Overstrip oils, causing dryness and rebound grease.
- Silicones – Fake "smoothness" but lead to buildup.
- PFAS & Harsh Preservatives – Linked to scalp irritation and long-term health concerns.
✅ What to Look For:
- Botanical cleansers – Clean without damaging.
- pH-balanced formulas – Support scalp health.
- Non-toxic, scalp-friendly ingredients – No greasy transition phase
Conclusion: The Right Balance for YOUR Hair
Healthy hair isn’t about washing more or less, but washing smarter. Avoid harsh chemicals, strip back unnecessary products, and focus on scalp health.
Looking for a shampoo that works from day one—without the greasy transition phase? Try Highland’s The Wash. No sulfates. No toxic junk. Just clean, balanced hair.
