Here’s how often you should wash your hair, according to a dermatologist.

You've heard the "rule": "Wash your hair 3–5 times a week." But if your curls feel like straw after day two—or your straight hair looks greasy by noon—you've probably wondered: Whose hair are they talking about?

The truth? There is no universal "right" frequency. Dermatologists emphasize that optimal washing depends on your scalp (not just hair), your hair's structure, ethnicity, lifestyle, and even climate. Let's replace oversimplified rules with science-backed guidance—plus debunk that persistent myth about oiliness.

🔬 The Science: Scalp Health ≠ Hair Health

Factor

What It Means for Washing Frequency

Scalp type