How often should you wash your hair and will it fall out?

A haircare expert has shared advice for how often you should wash your hair and how to do it properly <i>(Image: Getty Images)</i>
A haircare expert has shared advice for how often you should wash your hair and how to do it properly (Image: Getty Images)
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Questions about how often to wash your hair can be a common query for many people, especially if there are worries about it falling out if you do it too often.

As is often the case with grooming techniques, there is a sweet spot between doing it too much or too little.

Not washing your hair properly can cause damage to its roots as well as your scalp, which could lead to issues in the long term.

Sam Cinkir, CEO of skin and hair specialists Este Medical Group, has shared some advice on what to do if your hair is fine or thick.

Letting out humid air after a shower via your bathroom window can cause an issue in the long run(Image: Getty Images)

How often should you wash your hair?

Sam said the sweet spot for most people is washing your hair once or twice a week, maximum.

He said: “Washing our hair is an important part of our personal grooming routines and helps remove built-up dirt, grime and oil and keeps it looking and feeling its best, too. 

“Everyone’s hair is different and there is no one-size-fits-all secret, but there are some general rules for different types of hair that should keep you on the right track. 

“Over washing can strip strands of their natural oils and risk becoming brittle and prone to breakage. 

“Meanwhile, while not washing enough can create a build-up of dirt and oil, leading to issues such as dandruff, an itchy scalp and unpleasant odours. 

“Generally speaking, washing your hair once or twice a week with lukewarm rather than hot water is the sweet spot."

He recommends that people with fine hair should wash twice a week, or three times if necessary, as people with thinner locks tend to have more oil glands that can contribute to a greasy appearance. 

Meanwhile, those with thicker hair would likely be better off sticking to once or twice a week.

Sam also warned against using water that is too hot, as it dries the scalp and can make the roots weaker.

It can also make the strands more brittle and porous, leading to damage and loss.

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