How often to wash hair.

Answer in brief

Guidance range for how often to wash wavy, curly or coily hair, adjusted for activity, with your next wash date.

Worked example

Coily hair, moderate activity, last washed 5 days ago. The planning range is every 7 to 14 days (about 2.1 to 4.3 washes a month), so the next wash is due in 2 to 9 days. WebMD suggests every two to three days for type 4 hair, so the two sources differ.

How it works

For curly and coily hair the plan uses the American Academy of Dermatology advice for Black hair: wash once a week or every other week, so 7 to 14 days. For wavy hair it uses the WebMD figure of about every three days. WebMD's own figures for the other types are shown in the notes: limit washing to once a week for type 3, and every two to three days for type 4. The two sources disagree for type 4, which is why this is a range and not a rule.

High activity moves the plan to the shorter half of the range (a rule of thumb, not a published standard). Next wash due = range minus days since your last wash, never below zero. Washes a month = 30 divided by the interval.

This is general cosmetic care. A scalp that stays itchy, flaky, sore or is losing hair should be seen by a dermatologist.

Not professional advice. This is general cosmetic hair care information. For scalp conditions, hair loss, pain or irritation, see a board-certified dermatologist.

Sources (retrieved 2026-10-15):

• Black hair: Tips for everyday care, American Academy of Dermatology
• Hair Types: Straight, Wavy, Curly, and Coily, WebMD
• How To Manage and Care For Low Porosity Hair, Healthline

FAQ

How often should you wash curly hair?

The American Academy of Dermatology says once a week or every other week for Black hair, to prevent product build-up. WebMD says limit washing to once a week for type 3 curls.

How often should I wash 4c hair?

The American Academy of Dermatology range is every 7 to 14 days. WebMD suggests every two to three days for type 4 hair with a mild shampoo. The sources differ, so start with the dermatology range and adjust to your scalp.

Does exercise change how often I should wash?

This tool moves the plan toward the shorter end of the range for daily sweating, and suggests a rinse or co-wash between washes. That adjustment is a rule of thumb, not a published standard.

Is washing less often bad for my hair?

The American Academy of Dermatology gives the once-a-week to every-other-week advice to prevent build-up of products, which can be drying. If your scalp itches or flakes, see a dermatologist.

Should I use clarifying shampoo?

Healthline suggests a weekly clarifying shampoo for low porosity hair to remove residue build-up.