If you’re like many women with curly or coily hair, you’ve been told time and time again that washing your hair too often is a “no-no.” We’ve heard it all before – shampooing too much is bad for your hair, it takes too much time, your natural oils will be stripped out, you’ll end up with a dry, brittle mane, and some people even claim that hair grows better or faster when you don't wash it!
But, believe it or not, washing your hair on a regular basis can actually be beneficial for women with curly and coily hair, and provides the optimal conditions for healthy hair growth.
It's time to banish the myths of wash day and focus on the real proven facts and benefits of keeping your hair clean.
Today we’ll look at why it’s important to wash and care for your curls and coily locks regularly, as well as how to make the dreaded wash days a bit less arduous. Let’s dive in!
The Benefits of Washing Your Hair Regularly
We need to start by understanding that our scalps are just like any other part of our body—they need to be kept clean! For those with curly/coily textured hair, regular cleansing can help keep scalp conditions such as dandruff at bay, while hydrating the scalp and promoting healthy hair growth.
But it’s not just about keeping the scalp clean—washing regularly can also help remove buildup from products or environmental factors such as pollution. This buildup can weigh down your curls and leave them looking dull, dry and lifeless, as they prevent moisture from being absorbed into the hair. They can also cause scalp irritation and damage the cuticle layer of your hair, leading to breakage. By regularly cleansing your strands with a gentle cleanser (more on that later!), you can keep your scalp and hair feeling refreshed and looking vibrant.
How Often Should You Wash Your Curly or Coily Hair?
The frequency at which you should wash your hair depends on a few factors, such as your lifestyle and the type of products you use. Generally speaking, curly and coily hair should be washed anywhere from twice a week to once every two weeks. It is important to note that if you have an oily scalp, more frequent washing may be required. Alternatively, if your scalp tends to be on the drier side, you can stretch out wash days and opt for a co-wash routine in between full shampoos.
If you live an active lifestyle or are frequently exposed to dirt, grime, and other environmental factors, you may want to consider washing your hair more often. Additionally, if you’re using a lot of styling products (think: gels or pomades) you should make sure to cleanse your strands regularly to avoid buildup.
It’s also important to pay attention to the products you’re using and how often you’re using them. Many styling products can build up on the scalp, so if you notice that your curls are looking weighed down or aren't bouncing back like usual, it may be time for a shampoo.
When it comes to finding the right balance for your hair, it’s all about experimenting and paying attention to how your hair feels afterwards. Some ladies find that their curls respond best when shampooed a couple of times per week, while others may prefer to extend their wash days and opt for a co-wash or dry shampoo in between shampoos. Ultimately, every head of hair is different—you just have to find what works best for you!
Remember these key tips when it comes time for wash day: pay attention to ingredients; cleanse regularly; deep condition with heat; and use the right tools. With this regimen, you’ll have healthy curls in no time!
Good luck on your hair journey and stay beautiful out there! :)