HOW TO EXTEND YOUR HAIR WASHINGS:

Did you know that washing your hair less can actually improve the health and quality of your hair? I personally wash my hair only once or twice a week — and yes, I still shower every day (I love my showers!). It might sound intimidating at first, especially if you’re used to washing daily, but with a little patience and the right routine, your hair will adjust.

Whether you’re trying to reduce product use, save time, or improve your scalp health, here are my best tips for extending the time between hair washings — naturally.

Why You Shouldn’t Wash Your Hair Every Day

• Save money – Your shampoo and conditioner will last much longer.
• Save time – Especially if you have long or thick hair, fewer wash days = less time spent drying and styling.
• Healthier scalp – Washing too often can strip away your hair’s natural oils, leading to dryness and a scalp that overproduces oil to compensate.

That overproduction of oil? It’s what makes many people feel like they have to wash daily. However, once you balance it, your hair stays clean longer.

MY TOP TIPS TO HELP YOU SHAMPOO LESS:

1. Wear a Hat to Hide Oily Hair

On days your hair feels greasy but you’re not ready to wash it, hats are your best friend. Cozy wool hats work well in winter (I like to put a silk cap underneath to keep my hair smooth), and wide-brim sun hats or baseball caps are perfect for summer. A headband can also do the trick while adding a cute accessory to your outfit. No one will know you’re trying to hide your unwashed hair!

2. Just Wash Your Bangs in the Sink

If you have bangs or your hairline gets oily quickly, try washing just the front section in the sink. When I had bangs, I did this every morning. It’s a quick refresh without needing to wash your entire head.

3. Limit Styling Products

Products like mousse, hairspray, and gels can build up and make your hair feel dirtier sooner. If you do use styling products, wash more often or use a natural clarifying rinse.

Try using an Herbal Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Rinse to help remove product buildup and bring your scalp back into balance.

4. Don’t Touch Your Hair

Running your fingers through your hair can transfer dirt and oils from your hands to your strands, making it greasy faster. If you tend to play with your hair a lot, try being mindful and keep your hands clean (or just tuck your hair away in a braid or bun).

5. Use Oily-Hair-Friendly Hairstyles

On no-wash days, try styles that:

• Keep hair off your face
• Hide oily roots

Think: messy buns, low braids, sleek ponytails, or scarf wraps. And if you work out, wear your hair up to keep it off sweaty skin. That’ll help reduce scalp buildup and oiliness.

6. Sleep Smart: Use Protective Hairstyles

Wearing your hair down while sleeping can cause friction and oil transfer from your face to your strands.

Try:

• A loose braid or bun (secured with a claw clip)
• A silk or satin bonnet
• A silk pillowcase to reduce friction and frizz

This helps your hair stay fresh longer and keeps it smoother in the morning!

Check out my video on “protective sleep hairstyles” here.

7. Deep Clean When You Do Wash

When it is time to wash your hair:

• Focus shampoo on your scalp, not the ends
• Avoid conditioning your roots (that can make them oily faster)
• Use a natural, sulfate-free shampoo
• Try co-washing (washing with conditioner only) if you have dry or curly hair

8. Optional: Use Natural Dry Shampoo

I don’t personally use dry shampoo, but it can be helpful if you need an extra day or two between washes. Just be mindful of the ingredients… conventional dry shampoos often contain questionable chemicals that can clog your scalp.

Instead, look for or make your own with:

• A few drops of essential oils like lavender or rosemary
• Arrowroot powder
• Cocoa powder (for darker hair)
• Bentonite or kaolin clay

WATCH MY YOUTUBE VIDEO HERE:

Final Thoughts on how to wash your hair less often

Training your hair to go longer between washes is a process — but totally worth it. With time, your scalp will naturally rebalance and your hair will feel healthier, softer, and more manageable.