Whether or not to shampoo every day is one of the most discussed topics between Hårklinikken clients and Hair Specialists. Many people believe that less frequent scalp and hair cleansing is beneficial, and while this is a myth in dire need of busting, the truth is somewhat nuanced. Ultimately the answer to the question “should you shampoo every day?” depends on your choice of products, cleansing method, and your unique hair and scalp type.
How often should you wash your hair?
It can be harmful to use shampoos with harsh or problematic ingredients on the scalp every day. However, daily use of Hårklinikken’s shampoo lineup – uniquely formulated using caring, efficacious, and botanical-derived constituents that work in symbiosis – is beneficial. Think of it this way: do you wash your face daily? Just like the skin on your face, your scalp needs to be cleansed, nourished and cared for properly for it to function at its best. The skin on your scalp is more delicate than that on your face and also needs frequent attention.
Why you should shampoo daily or every second day:
While shampoos that incorporate problematic ingredients can do damage, using the right products made with the right technology and combination of ingredients – like our scalp-safe, follicle-friendly formulas – will benefit the scalp and hair. Frequent cleansing is important for the following reasons:
Clear away buildup
If left on the scalp for too long, buildup from sebum, dirt and product can create blockages in your hair follicles, contact reactions, and lead to irritation, dandruff and more. All of these issues can result in hair thinning over time.
Maintain ideal pH balance
When your shampoo is formulated in the right way, it helps balance your scalp microbiome, resulting in the ideal pH level. An ideal pH level is crucial when creating optimal conditions for healthy hair growth and decreasing hair thinning, shedding and loss.
What is the best method for shampooing?
We have an entire article dedicated to effective methods for shampooing depending on your hair and scalp type. But the short version is this: wet hair with lukewarm to warm water, emulsify shampoo in your hands before applying underneath your hair onto your scalp, massage into your scalp using your fingers for about 30 seconds, and rinse thoroughly.
How often should you shampoo depending on hair type?
While we recommend frequent scalp cleansing, everybody is different and may find their routine needs adjusting. But here are our general recommendations:
Straight Hair
Since straight hair types can be prone to higher oil production, daily cleansing is typically necessary to help regulate excess sebum.
Wavy Hair
People with wavy hair types should cleanse daily or every second day.
Curly Hair
Similar to those with wavy hair, individuals with curly hair types should cleanse daily or every second day.
Coily Hair
It's important for people with coily hair to ensure their scalp is thoroughly cleansed, as it can be challenging to shampoo the scalp properly due to high hair density. For some people, shampooing every second or third day is ideal, but for others once a week or every 10 days will be sufficient.
FAQs
How often should I wash my hair if I exercise every day?
We have an article about exercise and its impact on scalp health and hair loss, which you can read here. But the short version is that buildup caused by sweat (along with sebum, dead skin cells, dirt, products and pollutants) should be cleared away from the scalp frequently, as leaving it too long can result in conditions that may lead to hair loss.
How often should you shampoo if you have dry scalp?
Even if you have a dry scalp, cleansing every day or every second day with Hårklinikken shampoo won’t leave the scalp feeling irritated or tight. Some people with a dry scalp may want to also include our Fortifying Shampoo in their routine for a hydration boost.
How can I tell if I’m over-washing my hair and scalp?
Daily use of other shampoos might leave your hair dull, brittle or frizzy and your scalp feeling tight, dry or even irritated and itchy. If you’re facing any of these issues, we suggest a scalp reset or “detox” using our products. (And always visit a dermatologist if you suspect you’re dealing with eczema or psoriasis.)
Unsure where to start?
We only accept candidates who we believe we can help, which is why our online Hair Assessment is the best place to start. Based on your results, you will either qualify for immediate treatment or we will organize a consultation.