After chains like Blo and Drybar started popping up years ago, the number of new dry shampoos on the market has dramatically increased. "What started as a smart way to stretch your blowout has turned into a major time and money saver... and made dirty hair socially permissible," says Nunzio Saviano, an NYC hair salon owner. The oil absorbers in dry shampoo make unwashed hair look fresh and create texture and volume... but how often should you go between washes?
First, let's talk about the benefits of skipping a wash! We've all been told that daily washing is the root of bad-hair days, which is true. "Most detergents strip your scalp and hair of their natural oils, leaving them dry," says Michael Gordon, founder of NYC hair studio, Hairstory. That's why unwashed hair tends to looks better; The oils will make your hair glossy and less frizzy.
Going a day or two without washing your hair is totally okay. But going on days? "If you're piling on products— and not cleansing regularly—the scalp can become imbalanced," says Liz Phillips, a trichologist from NYC's Philip Kingsley Clinic. That means itching, flaking, and even shedding! Not cool.
How do you know what's going to work best for you? Listen to your scalp! If you begin to feel any sensitivity or see an increase in itching, flaking and/or shedding, it's time to wash your hair.