But you should wash it at least every two to three weeks to keep your scalp and hair clean and healthy.
What to do between washes
Hair and scalp care doesn’t just happen in the shower. Between washes, there are things you can do to maintain its cleanliness and appearance and protect it from damage.
“I think it’s important to have good scalp hygiene. As with beard hygiene, you want to take care of the skin underneath,” Rossi said. “Tend it and comb (your hair). It loosens dead skin cells, debris. You want to soak if you can.
“At least massaging your scalp will really help loosen debris. So you don’t necessarily have to shampoo it, but it’s very helpful to keep it clean,” adds Rossi. “You can also use things like leave-in conditioners or scalp oils. which helps to nourish and moisturize the scalp.”
If you sweat from regular exercise, you don’t need to shampoo your hair unless there’s a lot of bacteria or your hair or scalp has odor, Rossi says. You can wash it off with water if you want.
Most dry shampoos are considered safe for hair, but don’t rely on them too often, says Rossi. “If you’re super oily, it’s fine in a pinch. But you want to wash it off. You don’t want to build it up on the scalp either.”
If you notice excess oil around your hairline, you can blot it with cosmetic blotting paper, she adds. If you swim in a pool with your hair exposed to water, chlorine can make it dry and brittle.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, protect your hair by pre-wetting and conditioning, wear a snug swim cap, and immediately, replace any lost moisture with a shampoo and deep conditioner formulated specifically for swimmers.
If you’re experiencing persistent problems with your scalp or hair such as dandruff, hair loss or brittle hair you should see a board-certified dermatologist who treats conditions in this area, Rossi says.
