How to Train Your Hair to Be Washed Less: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

There are many reasons why someone may want to wash their hair less often. Whether it’s an effort to save time, reduce the amount of harm done to hair from over-washing, or simply wanting to avoid using too many products, training your hair to be washed less is a goal that many people strive for. So what exactly does “training your hair to be washed less” mean? In short, it means finding ways to keep your hair clean and healthy without having to wash it as often as you normally would.

Of course, everyone’s hair type and lifestyle are different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to training your hair to be washed less. However, there are several tips and tricks you can try to help you achieve your goals. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to train your hair to be washed less.

Using Dry Shampoo

One of the most popular strategies for training your hair to be washed less is using dry shampoo. Dry shampoo works by absorbing the oils in your hair and scalp, which helps to make your hair look freshly washed. It also adds volume and texture to your hair, making it easier to style.

According to Dr. Mamelak, a board-certified dermatologist, “Dry shampoos are a great way to extend the time between washes and can help give your hair an extra boost of volume and texture.” ¹

How often should you use dry shampoo? That will depend on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have oily hair or you’re very active, you may need to use dry shampoo more frequently than someone with normal or dry hair. Generally speaking, it’s best to use dry shampoo no more than twice a week.

Clarifying Shampoo

In addition to using dry shampoo, you may also want to consider using a clarifying shampoo every few weeks. Clarifying shampoos are designed to remove product buildup, dirt, and oil from your hair, leaving it feeling fresh and clean. They’re particularly helpful if you use a lot of styling products or live in a city with high levels of air pollution.

“A good clarifying shampoo can help remove excess oil, product build-up, and environmental pollutants from the hair,” says Dr. Mamelak. ² “It’s important to not overuse these types of shampoos, however, as they can be too harsh for certain hair types.”

How often should you use a clarifying shampoo? Again, this will depend on your hair type and lifestyle. Generally speaking, you should aim to use a clarifying shampoo no more than once a month.

Conditioning Hair

Conditioning your hair regularly is another great way to keep it looking and feeling healthy. Conditioners help to nourish and hydrate your hair, improving its overall appearance and texture. They can also help to protect your hair from damage caused by heat styling tools and environmental factors such as wind and sun.

It’s important to note, however, that you should only condition the ends of your hair. Applying conditioner to your roots can cause your hair to appear greasy and limp. You should also avoid using too much conditioner, as this can weigh down your hair.

Avoiding Heat Styling Tools

Using heat styling tools such as hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can cause a lot of damage to your hair. This can lead to split ends, breakage, and frizz, making it difficult to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy. As such, it’s best to avoid using heat styling tools whenever possible.

If you do need to use heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray beforehand. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the heat.

“Heat protectants provide a barrier between your hair and the heat of styling tools,” explains celebrity hairstylist Michael Dueñas. “This helps to protect your hair from damage and keeps it looking healthy.” ³

Changing Up Hairstyle

Another great way to train your hair to be washed less is by changing up your hairstyle. Different hairstyles require different amounts of maintenance, so switching it up can help you find a style that works for you. For example, if you have curly hair, you may want to try an updo or a loose braid, as these hairstyles don’t require as much maintenance as other styles.

You can also try different hair accessories such as headbands, clips, and barrettes. These can help to give your hair added texture and volume, making it easier to go longer between washes.

Sleeping with Hair in a Loose Bun or Braid

Finally, one of the best ways to keep your hair looking and feeling healthy is to sleep with it in a loose bun or braid. This helps to keep your hair in place while you sleep, preventing it from getting tangled and matted. It also helps to keep your scalp clean, which can reduce the amount of oil and dirt in your hair.

When sleeping with your hair in a bun or braid, make sure to use a silk or satin pillowcase. Cotton pillowcases tend to absorb moisture from your hair, making it more prone to tangles and frizz.

Conclusion

Training your hair to be washed less can be a challenge, but it’s one that can be achieved with the right strategies and techniques. By using dry shampoo, clarifying shampoo, conditioning your hair, avoiding heat styling tools, changing up your hairstyle, and sleeping with your hair in a loose bun or braid, you can keep your hair looking and feeling healthy without having to wash it as often. With patience and practice, you can successfully train your hair to be washed less.