Double Washing & How Often You Should Wash Your Hair: The Great Debate

6 days ago

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Written by Linda Ireland

Double Washing & How Often You Should Wash Your Hair: The Great Debate

6 days ago

·

Written by Linda Ireland

Let’s be honest—washing your hair can feel like a chore.I have waist length thick hair, I know, you know! Some people stretch it out for days (hello, dry shampoo enthusiasts), while others can’t stand the thought of skipping a single wash (looking at you, oily scalp fam - I’ve been there too!). And then there’s the mystery of double washing—is it just a marketing gimmick, or is there real science behind it?

Well, spoiler alert: It’s not just a trend. Double washing can be a game-changer for certain hair types, but it’s not for everyone. So, let’s break it down—how often should you actually wash your hair, and is double washing worth it?

So… How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

Like most things in life (except SPF—wear that daily), there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your ideal washing schedule depends on:

✔ Your hair type (fine, thick, curly, straight)
✔ Your scalp health (oily, dry, sensitive)
✔ Your lifestyle (sweaty workouts? Lots of styling products?)
✔ Your water type (hard vs. soft water makes a difference!)

Here’s a quick cheat sheet based on hair type:

🛁 Fine or oily-prone hair: Every 2-3 days
🌿 Normal hair: Every 3-4 days
💧 Dry or curly hair: Every 4-6 days
🦁 Thick or coarse hair: Once a week (or even less!)

Of course, these are just guidelines! Your hair is unique, so listen to it—if your scalp feels greasy, itchy, or weighed down, it’s time for a wash. If it still feels fresh and balanced, embrace that extra day between washes!

The Truth About Double Washing: Does It Actually Do Anything?

Double washing isn’t just some luxury salon ritual—it actually serves a purpose. The first cleanse removes dirt, oil, and product build-up, while the second cleanse allows your shampoo to actually nourish your hair and scalp. Think of it like washing your face: one cleanse removes makeup, the second actually cleans your skin.

💡 Who Should Try Double Washing?
✔ If you use a lot of styling products (hello, dry shampoo lovers again, thats me too!)
✔ If you have an oily scalp but dry ends
✔ If you go several days between washes
✔ If you struggle with scalp build-up or flakiness

🚫 Who Can Skip It?
❌ If you have dry, curly, or damaged hair (you don’t want to over-strip those natural oils girls!)
❌ If you wash daily (one cleanse is enough!)
❌ If your hair already feels clean after one wash

What Happens If You Wash Your Hair Too Often?

Over-washing can lead to:

🚨 Stripped natural oils – Leaving hair dry, brittle, and frizzy
🚨 Overproduction of oil – Your scalp compensates by producing more oil
🚨 Irritated scalp – Can cause itchiness, flakiness, or even sensitivity

If you’re washing too often and your hair feels constantly dry or greasy, it might be time to dial it back and let your scalp rebalance naturally.

How to Wash Your Hair the Right Way

Let’s be real—most of us aren’t washing our hair correctly (yes, even you). Here’s how to get the most out of your shampoo:

✔ Start with a thorough rinse – Lukewarm water helps loosen dirt and product build-up.
✔ Use the right amount – About a teaspoon for fine hair, a tablespoon for thicker hair.
✔ Double wash if needed – If you have oily roots or lots of product build-up, go for round two.
✔ Massage your scalp (gently!) – Let the shampoo work for at least 30 seconds to break down oils.
✔ Condition mid-lengths to ends – Never put conditioner on your roots—it’ll weigh your hair down.
✔ Finish with a cool rinse – It seals the cuticle, making hair shinier and smoother.

Final Thoughts: Find Your Perfect Wash Routine

✨ If your hair feels heavy, greasy, or lifeless, you might need to wash more often (or start double washing!).
✨ If your hair feels dry, brittle, or frizzy, try washing less frequently and using a gentler, low-tox shampoo (like BodFood’s clean formulas).
✨ If your scalp is unhappy, it’s time to reassess your routine—your shampoo, water type, and even styling habits all play a role.