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Does washing your hair daily damage it? | Abingdon | Didcot | Wantage | Oxfordshire
Opening in 2018, our space is now one of the busiest. Our creative team are celebrated for their signature haircuts, hair colour, perms, blowdries and more.
CALL: 01235 534705
EMAIL: [email protected]
4 EAST ST. HELEN STREET, OX14 5EA
Hair Salon Opening Times
Tuesday
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Wednesday-Thursday
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Friday
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Saturday
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Last Appointment:
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The impact of washing your hair daily
Washing your hair daily is common but could it be doing more damage to your hair longer term? Your Stylist may have explained that frequent washing leads to hair damage yet the truth is, it’s not as simple as ‘it does’ or ‘it’s doesn’t’. There are several factors which influence whether daily washing damages your hair, including your hair type, the products (and quality of products) used, your lifestyle, hard water areas, the hot tools used (whether regularly straightened or air dried) and how long you wash your hair for.
In this blog, we’ll explore whether washing your hair every day is bad for you, how washing daily affects the scalp and the hair itself, and when daily washing might be appropriate (or if it’s best avoided).
If you are considering something different, our ladies haircutting service page can help. Finally, if you’re new to the salon and not sure how to get the most value from your next appointment, need a consultation or would value a conversation before booking, call or send a WhatsApp message on 01235 534705.
Washing your hair daily FAQ's
What happens when you wash your hair?
To understand the impact of daily washing, it helps to know what washing actually does. As you might expect as time passes we need to cleanse the scalp and your hair when shampooing to remove factors such as product build up, dirt, sweat, oils and similar. However your scalp naturally produces oil (also known as sebum) which as its primary function acts to protect the scalp and hair shaft. So whilst washing offers many benefits, over-washing or using much stronger than intended products can strip away these oils too frequently leaving hair much drier, brittle or even prone to breakage.
Does washing hair daily cause damage?
Whilst washing your hair daily can cause damage, it’s not a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ response. It simply begs more questions and the real questions you should be asking is: what does your hair look/feel like? What is your hair type? And finally, how are you washing your hair and with what?
Why does your hair type matter?
Certain hair types are more prone to certain outputs. For example fine or oily hair may find that hair becomes greasy much more quickly and you may find relief from washing more routinely.
In salon curly hair makes up roughly 50% of our overall haircuts. These hair types tend to be drier because the oil which starts its journey from the scalp struggles to travel down a curl and that’s one of the main reasons that curly hair can often feel much drier. So whilst washing hair can be a relief for some, daily washing for others can be problematic both in terms of time-management but also because it can make hair seem more brittle.
Aren’t all shampoos the same?
Using the same comparisons as above, fine hair will usually respond very differently than curls. Curls crave moisture whereas fine hair will in most cases respond poorly to something heavy. Moisture on top of moisture is a problem, so establishing what your hair benefits from most is key. In many cases, choosing the wrong shampoo can escalate problems. Curly hair products are typically much more dense and packed full of moisture which is a win if you have curly hair! However fine hair may benefit most from volumising products or a more neutral shampoo which is neither too heavy whilst complimenting your hair type.
How do you wash your hair?
Are you using cooler water or very hot water? Most people will use the later which can create additional moisture. If oiliness is a standout problem, take advantage of a gentle product, reduce aggressive washing or keep blow-drying to a minimum. Triggers for oiliness tend to stem from heat from water and styling, vigorous washing and products packed with too much moisture. Be kind to your hair and it will be kind to you.
Signs you might be washing too often
If you wash your hair routinely most, if not every day you may be able to establish some common symptoms. If you are concerned that some of your issues may be symptomatic of washing your hair too often, it might be time to consider a change of approach. Here are some common side effects of washing your hair too often:
Dry or flaky scalp
Irritation
Frizzy hair
Duller appearance
Split ends
Increased oiliness
When is washing daily justified?
Washing your hair daily ad-hoc is sometimes unavoidable and there are plenty of examples where this can prove to be appropriate or even personal preference:
If you routinely visit the gym, it makes sense to wash hair.
You work long hours and need to feel refreshed.
Your hair often feels oily or greasy.
Your choice of styling products can leave residue behind.
If any of these points apply (or similar), it makes sense to opt for something more gentle to ensure compatibility with longer-term regular hair washing.
Alternatives to daily washing?
If are looking for alternatives between washing which may help to alleviate some of the symptoms of missing a hair wash or you’re concerned that regular hair washing might be doing more harm than good, then you’re not alone. The good news is that there are other ways which might support your hair routine:
Dry shampoo: Whilst not something you may wish to rely on long-term, dry shampoos absorb excess oil between washes.
Rinse with warm water only: This helps to remove some of the oil build up without the need for a full was. More information on washing with cold water.
Scalp brushing or exfoliation: Encourages blood flow and removes build-up without the need for a full wash.
Protective hairstyles: Many people put their hair up on non-wash days to reduce the need for frequent washing.
How often should you wash your hair?
There is not an exact answer that will fit exclusively for every person. It is important to consider a number of variables in particular lifestyle, products used, exposure to heat however here are some general guidelines:
Oily or fine hair: Every day or every other day with a shampoo which isn’t intensely moisturising
Normal hair: Every 2-3 days
Curly hair: Once a week with a curly hair shampoo. Here’s three things you need for curly hair.
Coloured or chemically treated hair: Twice weekly with colour-safe shampoo
For optimal results, consider how does your scalp and hair respond to your next wash? If it quickly feels greasy, try something with less moisture or even reduce the heat from the shower. If your scalp becomes irritable or flaky, explore what that trigger might be.
FAQ's about washing hair daily
Does daily washing cause hair loss?
No, but excessive washing, particularly when using stronger products can create an environment which leads to breakage.
Will washing hair every day fade colour faster?
100%, yes! It’s likely that colours will eventually fade regardless however many colour preserving shampoos will greatly slow down the fade as will washing less. However many products will also accelerate this cycle.
Can I wash my hair daily if I use heat protection and condition properly?
Yes, however it’s not advisable and tread cautiously. Even with protection, heat styling weakens hair over time.
Is greasy hair a sign I need to wash more often?
Not necessarily. It can often be a sign of a trigger (think hot water, aggressive washing, heat styling, a reaction to product build up, moisturing shampoos). Gradually reducing washing frequency can help rebalance oil production.
Conclusion
Washing your hair daily whilst not best practice isn’t necessarily damaging for all hair types, however it’s first worth considering if there is a better alternative. The trick is to establish the best possible routine for your hair type and lifestyle. For some, daily washing is absolutely fine. For others, it can strip the hair of essential oils and lead to dryness and breakage.
If you’re unsure whether your current hair washing routine is helping or hindering your hair’s health, we’re here to help.
Opening in 2018, our space is now one of the busiest. Our creative team are celebrated for their signature haircuts, hair colour, perms, blowdries and more.
CALL: 01235 534705
EMAIL: [email protected]
4 EAST ST. HELEN STREET, OX14 5EA
Opening Times
Tuesday
First Appointment
Last Appointment
Wednesday-Thursday
First Appointment
Last Appointment
Friday
First Appointment
Last Appointment
Saturday
First Appointment:
Last Appointment:
10 am
3:30 pm
11:30 am
7:30 pm
10 am
6 pm
9 am
4:30 pm
Is washing your hair daily bad for your hair?
Complete the below and a staff member will contact you at the earliest opportunity with further information about how we can help you with your hair appointment. Any questions, call or send a WhatsApp to the salon on 01235 534705 or book your appointment online.
Want to learn more about washing your hair?
As one of the best hair salons in Oxfordshire, we would love to discuss your plans with you! To book your hair appointment or consultation, get in touch with Wisteria Avenue Hair Salon by booking online or calling us on 01235 53470.
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