The Surprising Mistake You Could Be Making When Washing Your Hair That’s Causing Fallout

How Often to Wash & Shampoo

The frequency at which you should rinse your hair depends on your hair type— whether it is oily, dry or textured. 

Those with oily hair might notice that going days without washing their hair only leads to flatter, greasier locks. In this case, experts say washing every day is fine, just avoid harsh combing or tight hairstyles.

Dry hair can go a little bit longer, with several days in-between washes, as can textured hair. If you have fine or thin hair that is falling out, washing every other day gives your hair a break while also cleansing just enough to remove buildup and prevent a clogged scalp. 

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Erum N. Ilyas, M.D., MBE, FAAD notes that waiting any longer to wash your hair could mean worse for fallout overtime. 

"There is a tendency for many people to avoid washing their hair as they fear the loss they will experience in the shower," says Ilyas. "Our actively growing hairs are deeply rooted in the scalp and will not shed easily with washing our hair."

Ilyas notes that the hairs that shed "would have fallen out with or without washing" because those hairs are "no longer in the growth phase," but the resting phase. 

Not washing your hair or scalp leads to buildup, inflammation, and the potential for yeast and bacterial overgrowth. Ilyas says that this can inhibit hair growth, worsen hair loss or delay hair regrowth.

"This doesn’t mean you need to wash your hair every day, it just means to maintain your hair and scalp routine through periods of thinning hair," says Ilyas.

It's important to seek out your dermatologist to evaluate your scalp to determine the true nature of your thinning hair. As Ilyas says, "early intervention leads to better outcomes."

Your dermatologist can also recommend specific products for your hair situation and help you create a haircare routine. New Year's hair resolutions can be kept by visiting your doctor!