To wash or not to wash, that is the question

The internal dilemma every woman faces: to wash or not to wash. If you're like me and don't have the desire to dry and style your hair, there's the flip side with women who can't go more than two days without shampooing their hair.

Many clients who sit in my chair apologize for their unwashed hair. I reassure them that no hair is dirtier than a stylist's hair.

Why is that? Stylists understand the advantages of maintaining natural sebum production.

I have fine, curly, dry hair and can go 2 weeks without washing it if I wear it naturally.

The number of washes you need can be determined by the density and texture of your hair. For instance, the tighter your curl, the longer it takes for your natural oils to travel down the shaft of each hair strand.

There are also other factors, such as hormones and race, that can contribute to having more oil production compared to others.

Most professionals recommend not washing your hair more than three times a week. However, we certainly don't have a universal answer for the amount of shampoo a person needs.

There are numerous advantages to maintaining your natural sebum production; it helps lock in moisture, can prevent dry, brittle ends, and may lead to less breakage.

If you're one of the women who wash their hair daily and complain about the amount of oil your scalp produces, frequent washing might be the issue. By shampooing often and removing the oil, your scalp may respond by producing even more oil.

I've assisted many guests with a process known as oil training. The basic concept involves gradually extending the time between shampoo sessions each week. For instance, if you typically shampoo daily, start by skipping shampoo for two days, then progress to three days, then four, and continue in this manner.

If you're thinking about trying this, I recommend opting for a quality powder dry shampoo, as aerosols can often dry out the hair.

For a long time, I didn't care for dry shampoo, but I realized I was using it incorrectly. The right way to use dry shampoo is to apply it to the affected area, let it sit to absorb the oil, and then work it in. Another great option is to apply it before bed.

If you find it difficult to resist the urge to shampoo or can't bear going another day without washing, try to extend the time between shampoos by one more day—your hair will appreciate it.