How often should you wash curly hair?
Short answer: Curly and coily hair usually does not need washing every day or even every week. Dermatologists suggest washing at least every 2 to 3 weeks, often weekly if you sweat or use a lot of product, and conditioning every time. The goal is a clean scalp without stripping the moisture curls need.
Key takeaways
- Wash only as often as your scalp needs, at least every 2 to 3 weeks.
- Condition all of your hair, not just the ends.
- Detangle wet hair with conditioner, fingers or a wide-tooth comb.
- Protect curls at night with a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase.
Why don't curls need daily washing?
The natural oil from your scalp travels down straight hair easily. On curly hair it struggles to move along each bend, so the lengths dry out faster. Washing too often removes even more of that oil.
What does a good wash day look like?
- Pre-condition if your hair is very dry or tangled.
- Shampoo the scalp, in sections if your hair is long or thick. Use a clarifying shampoo now and then if you use gels, oils or creams.
- Condition everything with a thick conditioner.
- Detangle while the conditioner is in, starting at the ends.
- Leave-in or oil on damp hair, then style.
What about dandruff with fewer washes?
Long gaps can let oil build up. If you get flakes, put an anti-dandruff shampoo on the scalp only, leave it for 2 to 10 minutes as the label says, then use a moisturizing shampoo on the rest.
How do you protect curls between washes?
- Sleep with hair in a loose pineapple, braid or twists.
- Use a satin or silk bonnet or pillowcase to cut friction.
- Wear a hat in strong sun, and keep hair moisturized.
Used in this routine
The Curl Repair Set brings a conditioner, a hair mask and a leave-in conditioner together for wash day. For waves, see the Wavy Hair Set.
FAQ
Is co-washing enough?
It can work between shampoos, but your scalp still needs a proper cleanse now and then to clear buildup.
Should I brush dry curls?
No. Brushing dry curls causes breakage and frizz. Detangle when wet with conditioner.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology: 6 curly hair tips from dermatologists
- American Academy of Dermatology: Tips for healthy hair
General information, not medical advice. Patch test new products on a small area first. If a spot changes shape, color or size, or a product burns, see a board-certified dermatologist.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See a dermatologist for skin conditions.