Caring for your hair is just like caring for your skin, it needs consistency and a routine tailored to your individual needs. And just like skincare, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to how often you should wash your hair. To get some expert insight, we spoke to Dr Prashant Shetty (BNYS, M.Sc, PhD), Principal at SDM College of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences, Ujire, who shared his advice on how often you should really be washing your hair.
Should You Wash Your Hair Daily?
Maintaining good hair hygiene is important, but washing your hair every day might actually do more harm than good. According to Dr Prashant Shetty, excessive shampooing, especially with chemical-laden products can strip the scalp of its natural oils (called sebum), which are essential for keeping your hair soft, moisturised, and protected. Without them, hair can become dry, brittle, and more prone to damage.
Scientific research backs this up too. A study published in the International Journal of Trichology (Rinaldi & Sorbellini, 2019) highlights that frequent shampooing can disrupt the scalp’s microbiome which is the healthy bacteria that help maintain scalp balance. When this ecosystem is disturbed, it can lead to dandruff, scalp irritation, and even hair fall.
From a naturopathy standpoint, Dr Shetty explains that the key to healthy hair lies in working with your body’s natural rhythm. Over-washing interferes with the scalp’s ability to heal and regulate itself. Instead, he suggests gentle alternatives like weekly herbal rinses using hibiscus, amla, or shikakai, and regular oil massages with nourishing oils like coconut or sesame. These methods help detoxify the scalp and deeply nourish the hair naturally.
Side Effects Of Washing Hair Daily
Dr Shetty warns that washing your hair every day can lead to:
- Dryness and frizz
- Scalp irritation and flaking
- Rebound oiliness (your scalp overcompensates for lost oils)
- Increased breakage
- Weakened hair roots over time
Your hair type also matters. For instance, those with curly or naturally dry hair usually benefit from fewer washes, while people with oilier scalps might need shampooing 2–3 times a week. According to Dr. Shetty, if you’re exposed to heavy sweating, pollution, or dust, consider a water rinse or a gentle herbal spray instead of another shampoo session.
Tips For Clean Hair Without the Damage
- Choose gentle cleansers: Look for sulfate-free or herbal shampoos that won’t strip your scalp.
- Adjust your water temperature: Opt for lukewarm or cool water rinses as hot water can exacerbate dryness.
- Embrace natural oils: Allow your scalp’s own sebum to accumulate between washes to keep strands protected.
- Nourish from within: Include foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, and zinc to support hair strength.
True hair health is all about balance, not excess. As Dr Shetty emphasises, washing less frequently, using gentler, more natural products, and working with your body’s innate rhythms can help you maintain strong, shiny, and vibrant hair.
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