I was in seventh grade when I first noticed a change: my once-smooth and shiny hair turned frizzy and wild. I attribute this transformation to puberty, and I’ve seen my kids experience the same thing.
That year, I vividly recall a friend of mine shaking out her beautiful golden hair from a scrunchie during history class, and I could smell her Salon Selectives shampoo. The sweet aroma of candy apples filled the air, instantly lifting my mood. She shared that she washed her hair every morning at the sink, and without hesitation, we headed to the local drugstore after school so she could show me what to buy.
That day marked the beginning of my daily hair-washing routine. I longed for my hair to cascade down my back after releasing it from an elastic, sending delightful scents to everyone nearby. After thirty-three years of scrubbing my scalp every single morning — because I genuinely enjoy showering — my scalp has become accustomed to it, turning into an oil slick if I skip a day.
However, as I approach my 46th birthday, I realized it was time for a change. I have started washing my hair less frequently and can hardly believe the difference. This shift began when my daughter advised me years ago to stop washing my hair daily because it was damaging. She washes hers only once a week to ten days, and her hair is thick, long, and absolutely gorgeous.
Breaking the Cycle of Daily Hair Washing
So how does one break the cycle of daily hair washing? Initially, I didn’t have a solid plan. I thought I could simply go to scrubbing once a week, but like any habit we try to quit, I soon realized I needed a strategy to avoid falling back into old patterns.
That led me to consult the experts. A hairstylist named Kasey Oulette explained, “Once you stop washing every day, your hair will adjust.” She recommends using a dry shampoo (preferably an all-natural option); applying it to your scalp when your hair is clean helps prevent oily buildup better than it cuts grease.
Since I exercise often in the mornings and my scalp tends to get sweaty, the urge to wash my hair is strong. Fortunately, this dry shampoo advice has been a lifesaver. After washing my hair in the morning, I part it into sections each night, apply the dry shampoo, and comb through with my fingers. After my workout, I tie my hair back, and post-shower, I style it, leaving it feeling clean and refreshed.
Oulette also suggests using a clarifying shampoo a few times a month to maintain balance in your hair and scalp. Another stylist, Lisa Jones, mentioned that avoiding hot water is key to combating that greasy sensation. “Washing your hair with hot water often stimulates more oil production. Stick to warm water, and your hair will stay cleaner for longer,” she advised.
Jones also recommends wearing a shower cap while washing to resist the temptation of wetting your hair, which trains you to keep your hands and water away from your locks. Additionally, be mindful of where you apply your hair products. “Avoid putting conditioner on your scalp,” she cautioned. “This common mistake can lead to an oily scalp. Instead, focus on washing the roots and conditioning the ends.” Once I started doing this, I realized I was conserving a lot of product.
Experimenting with Hairstyles
Another strategy that has helped me transition from washing daily to just twice a week is experimenting with fun hairstyles. When I wear my hair up after not washing for a day or two, it keeps my hands away from it. On that third or fourth day when the temptation to wash it is strong, a stylish headband or hat can work wonders since my hair looks great at the ends but a bit oily at the roots.
I began this journey by skipping one wash day, then two, and now I can go three or four days without washing. If you want healthier hair — my locks look better, grow faster, and my color lasts significantly longer — consider these tips. You’ll save time and prolong the life of your hair products, making it a win-win for both you and your hair. For more insights, check out this other blog post about home insemination techniques.