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How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? It Depends On This…
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? It Depends On This…

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? It Depends On This…

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    When it comes to washing your hair, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. How often you should wash your hair depends on several personal factors — including your hair type, scalp condition, lifestyle, and even the products you use.

    In this guide, we’ll break down how often you should wash your hair, what happens when you over wash or under-wash, and how to build a routine that keeps your hair healthy, hydrated and clean - without stripping it of its natural oils.

    Why Does Hair-Washing Frequency Matter?

    Washing your hair too often can lead to dryness, breakage, and irritation — especially if you’re using harsh shampoos with sulphates or alcohols. On the flip side, not washing often enough can cause product buildup, excess oil, and even scalp issues like dandruff or inflammation.

    Finding the right balance is key to maintaining a healthy scalp and hair.

    How Often Should You Wash Your Hair? A Breakdown by Hair Type

    Oily Hair & Scalp

    Recommended: Every 1–2 days
    If your scalp gets greasy quickly, frequent washing is okay — especially with a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo that won’t dry you out. You can also try a lightweight scalp detox or exfoliating scrub once a week to reset oil levels.

    Dry or Damaged Hair

    Recommended: Every 3–4 days (or longer)
    Dry or chemically treated hair needs time between washes to retain moisture. Use a hydrating shampoo and always follow with a moisture-rich conditioner or leave-in.

    Curly or Coily Hair

    Recommended: Once a week
    Curly textures are naturally drier and prone to frizz, so washing too frequently can disrupt the curl pattern and cause dehydration. Instead, co-washing or using a curl cream mid-week helps maintain softness and shape.

    Fine or Thin Hair

    Recommended: Every 2–3 days
    Fine hair shows oil more easily but can also be stripped fast. Use a volumising, non-heavy shampoo and avoid heavy conditioners on the roots. A good moisture spray can help refresh between washes.

    Colour-Treated Hair

    Recommended: Every 3–4 days
    To prevent colour fade, avoid daily washing and stick to sulphate-free shampoos. Using a repairing hair mask once a week can help lock in colour and strengthen strands.

    What Happens If You Wash Too Often?

    • Strips natural oils

    • Leads to scalp dryness, itchiness or flaking

    • Causes frizz and dullness

    • Weakens hair over time, leading to breakage or split ends

    If you’re washing daily and noticing any of the above, it might be time to scale back and introduce hydrating treatments or leave-in products to keep your hair balanced between washes.

    How to Freshen Hair Between Washes

    If you’re spacing out washes but still want your hair to feel clean and fresh:

    • Use a dry shampoo to absorb oil and add volume

    • Spritz mid-lengths with a hydrating moisture spray to revive and rehydrate

    • Style with a lightweight serum or cream to reduce frizz and add shine

    • Use a scalp scrub once a week to remove product buildup

    Create a Custom Hair-Washing Routine

    There’s no perfect rule — just what works best for your hair. Here’s how to build your own ideal routine:

    1. Start with your hair type and needs

    2. Use gentle, natural formulas (avoid sulphates and silicones)

    3. Pay attention to your scalp — oily, itchy, dry or flaky? Adjust accordingly

    4. Incorporate treatments like masks or leave-ins as needed

    5. Don’t forget protection — always use a heat protectant when styling

    So, how often should you wash your hair? It depends - and that’s okay. By tuning into your hair’s needs, using gentle products, and building a routine that works for your texture and lifestyle, you’ll set the foundation for stronger, healthier hair.

    No matter your hair type, Pump Haircare offers salon-quality, Australian-made products to support your best wash-day routine - from gentle cleansers to nourishing treatments and styling support.

    Read more

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