Why do we wash our hair?

This question might seem trivial, but it holds significant importance in determining how often you need to wash your hair.

Hair is essentially a type of body hair, differing mainly in its greater length and longer lifespan. Structurally, hair and body hair are quite similar. But why do we feel the need to wash our hair while not experiencing the same urge for other body hair, such as facial hair?

The reason for our frequent hair washing is generally due to a perceived need. In reality, our hair is densely distributed, longer than other body hair, and located near our brain—an organ that consumes substantial energy, leading to increased oxidation and heat. Additionally, hair washing is essential for aesthetic reasons.

However, when considering the broader reasons that drive us to wash ourselves in general, we can point to the following factors:

• Hair styling
• Itchiness and oiliness
• Accumulation of dirt

Determine your washing schedule

To figure out how often you should wash your hair, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind your washing routine, right?

We’ve outlined three primary motivations for washing hair, and I’ll offer advice tailored to these specific factors:

1. Hair styling

If you find yourself washing your hair daily because it’s unmanageable without washing, it’s a necessity (unless you’re comfortable with a disheveled look). This situation can be particularly challenging for those with thinning hair, as their hair tends to appear disorderly. The best solution is frequent washing to help your hair maintain its shape.

For daily washes, you don’t need to hop into the shower. Here’s an alternative method I often use:

• Dampen your hair by wetting your hands.
• Vigorously brush your hair, applying pressure to your scalp. This not only reduces itching but also enhances blood circulation. Furthermore, this brushing can replace the use of shampoo or soap. It’s a technique commonly used in the No Poo method (shampoo-free washing).
• Dry your hair with a hairdryer, using medium heat, and tilting your head down. Keep the dryer about 15-20 cm away from your hair.

Following these steps, your hair will be clean, as if you’d taken a shower. This process only takes about 3 minutes, and you can style your hair as desired.

2. Itchiness and greasiness

If your hair-washing routine is driven by itchiness and greasiness, your washing frequency depends on the intensity of these symptoms and when they occur. Typically, they start to surface the day after washing, but in some cases, they may appear after 2-3 days.

If your primary goal is to relieve the discomfort caused by these sensations, my advice is to wash your hair as soon as you feel the need. By following the guidance in the Total Immersion program, you’ll notice a rapid reduction in itching, allowing you to extend the time between washes. For example, instead of washing daily, you may find you can wash every 3 or 4 days.

It’s important to address muscle tension and chronic inflammation in this context. In Modules 5 and 6 of the program, you’ll find information on oral and topical anti-inflammatories, which are effective in treating itchiness and oily skin. Additionally, dandruff may be a cause of itching, and in such cases, an anti-dandruff shampoo with active ingredients like piroctone olamine, zinc pyrithione, sulfur, ketoconazole, and others can be highly effective.

3. Accumulation of dirt

If you typically wash your hair due to dirt and grime buildup, the best approach is to wash your hair as soon as you find it bothersome. The problem with accumulated dirt is that it can lead to excessive sebum production, resulting in itching. Furthermore, sebum provides sustenance for harmful bacteria and fungi present on your scalp. Over time, this can cause dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.

In Module 3 of the Total Immersion program, I’ve provided various hygiene tips, including changing your pillowcases regularly, cleaning items like headphones and daily-use objects, avoiding excessive touching of your hair with your hands, and steering clear of environmental pollution and exposure to strong drafts.

Failing to wash your hair when it’s dirty can lead to the spread of bacteria and pollutants to your bedding and daily-use items. This can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort, ultimately leading to stress. I strongly discourage this practice.

4. Multiple causes simultaneously

If you’re experiencing a combination of these three factors concurrently, the best course of action is to wash your hair as needed. For instance, if you have thinning hair and are dealing with itching, you can use the quick brush wash method I explained earlier. This approach allows you to restyle your hair and alleviate itching through vigorous scalp brushing.

If you also have greasy hair and wish to use the quick brush wash method, consider adding a bit of salt to your hair when dampening it. The salt can absorb excess grease and help your hair appear less oily when drying with a hairdryer.

Is frequent washing harmful to hair?

I’ve encountered numerous individuals with greasy and unruly hair who claim they refrain from washing it because they believe it’s detrimental and damaging to their hair. To some extent, they are correct. The issue with daily hair washing is that it can lead to the loss of essential hair proteins and moisture. Since these washes are so frequent, the hair doesn’t have adequate time to replenish these losses, resulting in hair damage.

However, it’s important to note that in certain circumstances, daily hair washing is a necessity. For individuals dealing with excessively greasy hair and excruciating itching, it’s impractical to advise against frequent washing.

This image will soon be translated from french to english (our website was entirely in french a few months ago).

In reality, the discomfort experienced in the scalp is more harmful to your hair than regular washing. When you opt for frequent washing, your hair loses hydration and proteins. On the other hand, neglecting to wash your hair leads to persistent itching, discomfort, and the constant stress of having dirty hair.

In both scenarios, it’s clear that you face challenges. Nonetheless, it is easier to restore hair strength by replenishing proteins and moisture than to address the discomfort. Allow me to elaborate on this matter.

How to compensate for protein and moisture loss ?

Taking care of your hair is quite straightforward. You can use hair care products, just like many individuals, particularly women, who take good care of their hair. There are numerous conditioners, repairing treatments, and plant-based oils available to address this need.

For instance, you can purchase a hair mask and apply it twice a week. You can also use coconut oil, which helps strengthen keratin. Argan oil is another excellent option, serving as the primary ingredient in many hair care products.

Here’s an example of a complete range of products based on argan oil:

Many brands offer similar products, and they are generally similar in terms of composition and effectiveness, so you have plenty of options.

In fact, a quick visit to the store should provide you with what you need. Unlike products aimed at reducing androgenetic alopecia, I believe that hair care products are genuinely effective.

A Homemade Recipe

If you’re interested in a homemade hair care recipe, there are plenty available on the internet. For instance, you can try the following:

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt (or regular salt)
• 1 teaspoon of coconut oil
• 2 teaspoons of olive oil

Mix these ingredients and apply the mixture to your hair while brushing it backward. Leave it on for 2 to 4 hours, then wash it out.

By providing the necessary care to your hair, you won’t have to fear frequent washing anymore.

What Is the ideal water temperature for hair washing?

For many of us, washing with warm water is a relaxing and pleasant experience. However, if you increase the water temperature too much, it can be harmful to your hair. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, fine, and more prone to breakage.

If you shower too frequently without taking care of your hair, it will never have a chance to recover from the damage caused by heat. However, since frequent washing is necessary for some of us, it’s advisable to avoid very hot water during the shower. Ideally, you should use lukewarm to warm water.

Unlike some, I don’t recommend washing with cold water because it can make your showers unbearable. If I were to suggest an ideal temperature range, it would be between 37°C and 48°C.

How to safely dry your hair?

When your hair is wet, it becomes delicate and susceptible to damage. To protect your hair while drying it, here are some essential tips:

• Avoid using high heat: When using a hairdryer, refrain from using high temperatures to quickly remove moisture, as it can lead to dehydration and weaken the hair, causing breakage. Opt for medium heat and keep the hairdryer at a distance of about 15 to 20 cm from your hair.

• Gentle towel drying: When drying your hair with a towel, pat and blot your hair gently to remove excess moisture instead of vigorous rubbing, which can lead to breakage. Use a wide-toothed comb to detangle your hair, then allow it to air dry or use a hairdryer.

• Correct hairdryer usage: Follow these steps:
  • 1. Begin by using a towel to absorb excess water without excessive rubbing, as wet hair is fragile.
  • 2. Once the excess water is removed, use a hairdryer. Set it to a low temperature, preferably below 1200 watts. Lean forward, keep the hairdryer about 15-20 cm away, and gently dry your hair without concentrating on one area. Move the hairdryer around for even drying.