According to dermatologists and hairstylists, when you shampoo your hair, you are actually cleaning your scalp and not just your hair. This means that when deciding whether to shampoo your hair twice or even three times, you are considering giving your scalp a deep cleanse. While a single wash is usually enough to properly clean most people’s scalps and result in healthier hair, there are times when multiple shampoos can be beneficial.
Shampoo is like detergent for your scalp. It removes dirt, debris, and oil from your scalp and hair strands. It can also help limit oil or boost and lock in hydration, depending on the formula. Shampooing stimulates the scalp and promotes hair growth. However, experts generally advise against shampooing your hair twice in most cases.
Using a good-quality shampoo usually requires only a single wash. Washing your hair less frequently or using multiple styling products may require double washing to loosen and remove dirt. Triple shampooing is usually unnecessary except when hair is exceptionally waxy or greasy from exercise.
Double shampooing or overwashing your hair can strip it of beneficial oils and cause issues like color stripping, dryness, split ends, and flakiness. Hair texture also plays a role; curly hair may become frizzy with frequent washing. If your scalp feels itchy, flaky, or sore, you may be washing it too often.
However, there are two instances when using shampoo twice may be helpful: if you exercise often or use medicated shampoo. Buildup from exercising can be removed with a double cleanse, and medicated or antifungal shampoos may require a second rinse with a regular shampoo. It’s important to wash the scalp thoroughly with shampoo to promote hair growth but equally important not to over-cleanse.
Here is a step-by-step guide for shampooing your hair:
1. Thoroughly wet your hair.
2. Select the correct shampoo for your hair type.
3. Apply shampoo to your roots and massage gently.
4. Slide the product down the hair shaft, removing the shampoo while keeping your head under the water.
As for how often you should shampoo, it depends on various factors, but aiming for two to three washes a week is recommended. Hormone levels and individual hair needs play a role in determining the frequency of washing. Understanding your hair’s specific needs can help you choose the best products and develop a customized routine. On average, washing three times a week should suffice.