Advice Column: Mastering Dry and Oily Hair

Anonymous: How often should I wash my hair, and what shampoo should I use for oily/dry hair?

Welcome to the ultimate guide on hair care basics! Starting a hair care routine can be overwhelming with the plethora of products and information available. This guide will simplify things by covering all aspects of hair care and maintenance, from pre-wash prep to bedtime routines and beyond. We’ll also recommend must-have products for beginners looking to enhance their hair care regimen.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

How often you should wash your hair depends on your hair type, lifestyle, and scalp health. For most people, washing hair two to three times a week is ideal. However, if you have particularly oily hair, you might feel the need to wash it daily. Washing too frequently can lead to dry, dull hair, so it’s a balancing act. If you’ve had chemical treatments like bleach or perms, your hair may be drier, and washing less frequently can help avoid breakage and split ends.

Teenagers experiencing greasier hair due to hormonal changes during puberty might need to wash more often. To manage an oily scalp, shampoo your scalp only and condition the ends of your hair. Additionally, avoid heat products, clean hairbrushes and clips regularly, and use shampoos that specifically target oily hair. On the other hand, if you have coily or curly hair, washing too often can lead to damage. Curly hair doesn't need daily washing; sometimes, it doesn't even require weekly washing. Tailor your routine to keep your hair and scalp clean and healthy without causing damage.

The Basics

The cornerstone of a good hair care routine is a quality shampoo. For most people, a gentle, sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo is the best choice. Sulfates can strip your hair and scalp of natural oils, leading to dryness, but they might be beneficial if you have extremely greasy hair or heavy product build-up.

Conditioning is crucial for soft, moisturized hair. It seals the cuticle after shampooing. Select a conditioner based on your specific hair concerns. For oily hair, conditioners with olive oil work well. If you're aiming for hair growth, choose one with rosemary oil. For dry hair, conditioners with hyaluronic acid are excellent.

After washing, it’s important to use after-wash products like leave-in conditioner. Apply this to damp hair, focusing on the ends, not the scalp. For dry hair, look for leave-in conditioners with aloe vera, while those with oily hair should choose lightweight formulas. When it comes to styling, a quality heat protectant is essential to prevent damage, allowing you to style your hair without worry.

Drying your hair properly is also key. Avoid using cotton towels as they can cause frizz. Instead, air dry your hair 70-80% before blow-drying or diffusing it until fully dry. If any new products worsen your hair condition, discontinue their use immediately. Finding the right products can take time, but it’s worth the effort to achieve your perfect hair regimen.

Managing Oily Hair

Oily hair is often caused by excessive oil production from the sebaceous glands on the scalp. Choosing the right shampoo can make a big difference. Clarifying shampoos like Garnier Pure Clean Shampoo, which contains salicylic acid, can help if you experience scalp acne. Another good option is Redken Hair Cleansing Cream, suitable for all hair types and textures, including color-treated hair.

Scalp scrubs are also effective at removing flaky scalp and build-up. We recommend Davines Solu Sea Salt Scrub, which nourishes the hair and creates a healthy foundation. To prevent your hair from getting oily too quickly, avoid touching it frequently, limit heat styling, use lightweight shampoos and conditioners, and clarify your hair regularly.

Managing Dry Hair

Dry hair can result from various factors, including climate, heat styling, and genetics. For dry hair, sulfate-free moisturizing shampoos are the best choice. Aveda Nutriplenish Light Moisture Shampoo, made with 94% naturally derived ingredients, is suitable for all hair types and contains multiple hydrating ingredients like coconut oils, mango butter, and oat extract.

If you're on a budget, Nexxus Ultimate Moisture Therappe Shampoo and Humectress Conditioner offer a salon-quality formula designed to repair already damaged hair. This formula is also great if you experience shedding or hair loss. For those seeking more volume and definition, Davines Momo Shampoo and Conditioner are excellent choices, designed to thicken the hair and rich in vitamins, with a lightweight formula that adds volume and detangles effectively.

Reducing heat styling, using essential oils, and washing less frequently can also help prevent your hair from drying out too easily.

Creating a perfect hair care regimen takes time! If a product doesn’t work for you, stop using it and try another. There are countless options out there to help you achieve the best hair care routine tailored to your needs. Enjoy the journey to fabulous hair!