How often should men wash their Hair? Dealing with dry or greasy Hair
Published on 11th June '19How often should I wash my hair? Why is my hair dry? Why is my hair greasy?
Hair Type Matters
There is a reason why there are different products for different hair types. Every texture and hair type requires particular and specific attention and your wash routine is no exception. Hair with thicker strands can go longer without cleansing, while thin hairs tend to get dirty and oily quicker. Curly hair tends to be on the dry side, so can go longer without washing, while straight hair may require more frequent washing. Coarse hair can be left for longer without a good scrub, while silky hair can’t...you get the picture!
Sebaceous glands
Every strand of hair on the head has it's own sebaceous gland, tucked away inside the folicle (this is the hole in the skin which the hair comes from). This clever gland produces a slightly acidic substance called sebum. Sebum is the body's natural defence for hair. It secretes onto the surface fo the scalp and base of the hair shaft. Then through movement it gets all over the hair. Sebum is a good thing for hair condition and also protects the scalp from harmful microbes. Unfortunately sebum does not regulate itself, and this is where a correct hair washing routine becomes important.
Build up
On some heads the sebaceous glands produce more. This could be due to factors like warm climates where the pores open further, excercise where sweat can push sebum all over the scalp and hair, diet can also be a factor in hair and scalp health. there can be varying reasons, but it's worth looking at your own hair and deciding where you fit in. Sebum build up can eventually lead to the yeast that causes dandruff.
Dry scalp
The amount of Sebum produced can be directly linked to testosterone levels. So low levels of testosterone may lead to low sebum production. However If you are in this boat and find your scalp is dry or hair is dry, then it's possible you are washing too often or using the wrong shampoo for your hair type. A dry scalp can lead to itchy, dry and sometimes flaky skin. (not to be confused with dandruff).
So, how often should I wash my hair?
Generally speaking, dry hair types should shampoo a maximum of two times a week, while oily hair types may require washing on a daily basis. If you have normal hair and don’t suffer from dryness or oiliness, you have the luxury of washing your hair whenever you feel like you need to. It also depends on your hair type. Hair that's thicker, curlier, or processed can go without a wash for longer than hair that is fine. This is because the oils in your scalp don't travel down the hair shaft as quickly as it does in finer hair strands.
Products for dry hair
When choosing a shampoo for dry hair and scalp, look for something containing oils such as Almond oil or Argan oil which is very popular now. Most shampoo brands have a shampoo for dry hair. Very often it states on the front that it is a hydrating shampoo. The same goes for conditioner. One great tip for conditioning the scalp and hair is to leave the conditioner on for ten minutes in the shower before washing it out. Hair tonics which are found in most good barber shops can also moisturize the scalp when applied after showering.
Products for greasy hair
Shampoo for oily hair will ideally contain citrus. These shampoos will cut through excess sebum easily and washing twice in the same shower will gaurantee removal of any excess build up. If you've arrived at the point that excess sebum has caused dandruff then you should first of all use a medicated shampoo like T - Gel, this will deal with the fungus causing the dandruff. Then regular washing with a citrus shampoo will maintain a healthy scalp which is dandruff free.
Other factors
Consideration should always be given to the atmosphere we spend our days in. If you work in a dusty environment or a polluted area then your hair will feel noticeably dirty. This should be dealt with by washing. Your hair and scalp definitely don't benefit from pollution so get that out of there.
Conclusion
To decide on the apporpriate washing routine for you, please consider all the factors above. Feel your hair, decide if your using the correct routine and choose the products which are suited to you. There is no one rule for everyone when it comes to a hair washing routine. A bit of trial and error is sometimes needed. However it is worth speaking to your barber or hairdresser when you are in and they can help you identify your hair type.