Dermatologists generally don’t recommend an exact “one-size-fits-all” schedule (like every 2 days or every 4 days) — instead, they suggest finding a range that suits your scalp and hair type. The most commonly cited guideline from dermatologists is:
🧴 Wash your hair about 2–4 times per week (roughly every 48–72 hours) for most healthy scalps. This helps keep oil, sweat and buildup under control without stripping essential natural oils.
Here’s why this range is often recommended:
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Oily or fine hair / heavy sweating: closer to the higher end (every 1–2 days) because oil and sweat build up faster.
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Normal hair: typically every 2–3 days works well.
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Dry, curly, or coarse hair: less frequent, like every 3–7 days — letting natural oils nourish the strands.
The key takeaway most dermatologists offer is: don’t fixate on a rigid schedule like “every other day” or “once a week” — listen to your scalp. Wash when your hair starts to look greasy, feel heavy, or your scalp feels itchy, but avoid washing so often that you strip away your natural oils.
Would you like a quick hair-type breakdown to figure out a more personalized wash routine? (e.g., for curly vs straight hair)