Dermatologists agree that there is no one-size-fits-all rule for how often you should wash your hair — it depends on your scalp type, hair texture, lifestyle, and even age. But here are the general dermatologist-approved guidelines:

🧴 How Often You Should Wash Your Hair (According to Dermatologists)

⭐ 1. Oily or Greasy Scalp: Every 1–2 Days

If your scalp gets oily fast, frequent washing is helpful because:

Oil buildup can clog pores
Hair looks greasy quickly
You may get itching or scalp acne

Dermatologists often recommend daily or every-other-day washing for oily scalps.

⭐ 2. Normal Scalp: Every 2–3 Days

If your scalp is not too oily or too dry:

Washing 2–3 times per week keeps the scalp balanced
Prevents unnecessary dryness
Keeps hair looking clean without stripping natural oils

⭐ 3. Dry or Sensitive Scalp: Every 3–5 Days

If you deal with:

Dryness
Tightness
Flaking

Washing too often can make dryness worse. Dermatologists suggest:

Every 3–5 days
Using gentle, hydrating shampoos

⭐ 4. Curly, Coily, or Textured Hair: Once a Week (or Even Less)

Textured hair is naturally drier because oils travel more slowly down the hair shaft.
Dermatologists often recommend:

Once a week or every 7–10 days
Co-washing (conditioning wash) for moisture between shampoos

⭐ 5. Fine, Thin Hair: Every Other Day

Fine hair gets oily quickly because:

Oil spreads more easily
Hair can look flat faster

Dermatologists usually recommend washing every 1–2 days.

⭐ 6. Thick or Coarse Hair: Every 3–7 Days

This type holds moisture better and doesn’t get greasy as fast.

🔍 Other Factors Dermatologists Consider

✔ How much you sweat

Sweat buildup leads to odor and irritation → wash more often.

✔ Use of styling products

Heavy products cause buildup → wash every 2–3 days.

✔ Smog, pollution, or dusty environments

You may need more frequent washing.

✔ Scalp conditions

If you have dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, or psoriasis, wash according to your dermatologist’s instructions (often more frequently with medicated shampoo).

🧠 Dermatologist Tip

The goal isn’t how often you wash — it’s keeping your scalp healthy.
A healthy scalp = healthy hair.

If you want, I can also tell you:

The best shampoo type for your hair
Signs you’re washing your hair too much or too little
A dermatologist-approved weekly hair routine tailored to your scalp type

Just tell me!

Here’s how often should you wash your hair, according to a dermatologist