Can I wash my natural hair once a month?

 

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The idea that hair grows faster when it's dirty is one of those myths surrounding Black hair that won't go away. While the concept of never wetting your hair again is outrageous, there is actually some merit to this myth. So what's the truth about dirty hair and growth?

Part of the reason why Black people of yesteryear didn't shampoo as often (or go swimming) is because—before relaxers and even after they hit the mainstream haircare market—the primary method for hair straightening was by using a hot comb. After spending several hours shampooing, drying, and straightening the hair with a hot comb—which can cause severe burns to the scalp—it's no wonder they wanted their hairstyles to last as long as possible.

Then, other people just aren't as adept at caring for their mane. They wait for their stylist to cleanse and condition their hair, and if their beautician is booked solid for the next four weeks, they wait until they're available. We get it, but taking your hair into your own hands is essential for its health. 

Disclaimer: This "never washing" idea does not include co-washing. The co-wash process includes plenty of water, and even women who steer completely clear of traditional shampoos can have clean, healthy locks.

Does Dirty Hair Grow Faster Than Clean Hair?

The fact of the matter is that hair needs to be cleansed pretty regularly. Never putting water on your hair is unsanitary and can lead to odor, buildup, and even dryness and breakage.

With that out of the way, it's important to address why the notion of dirty hair promoting hair growth is still so prevalent. As you probably know already, Black hair doesn't require the same frequent cleansing that naturally straight hair needs. You can shampoo once a week and still easily have healthy locks. The days of believing that once-monthly washes are sufficient, however, are over.

One of the reasons some people believe not cleansing hair promotes growth is because too-frequent washing encourages dryness, brittleness, and breakage—all of which happen to be some of the same issues you may face by not washing enough. If you shampoo too often (for Black hair, too often could be daily with a harsh, sulfate-laden cleanser), yes, your hair will dry out and break. Anyone's hair may become damaged if they shampoo every day.

Why Skipping Washes Can Hurt Your Hair

While too frequent washes can cause breakage and dryness, not washing at all can also cause a myriad of issues. Natural oils, hair products, sebum from your scalp, and even air pollution can all build up on your hair. Think about what happens then when you never wash it out or only wash once a month or so. The gunk probably isn't helping where growth is concerned.

Once or twice a week, shampoo with a gentle product on a regular schedule to keep the scalp clean and healthy.

How Often Should You Really Wash Natural Hair?

This question doesn't really have a correct answer, since the number of washes is really dependent on your particular scalp and hair.

Hair usually grows roughly 1/4 to 1/2 inch per month, although some people may notice more growth when they cleanse their tresses and scalps more often than they did in the past. The more you moisturize your hair and scalp with water, the healthier your head will be. Hair growth flourishes from a clean, healthy scalp. The bottom line is that dirty hair doesn't grow any faster than clean hair, so you may as well have a clean scalp and fresh tresses. Your strands will look better, feel better, and be healthier, too.

Try These Shampoos For Natural Hair Growth

These shampoos are so good that you'll wonder why it took you so long to cleanse your hair regularly. 

Maple Holistics Biotin Shampoo $10

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Biotin, or vitamin B-7, is the super ingredient that many claim stimulates hair and nail growth. This affordable shampoo from Maple Holistics gets rid of pesky dandruff, promotes hair growth, and helps to strengthen hair strands. Be sure to follow-up with your favorite hair mask for extra hydration. 

Davines Energizing Shampoo $32

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Massage Davine's caffeine-infused shampoo into your scalp to help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss. Your strands will be left shiny and clean after rinsing out this paraben and sulfate-free shampoo. 

Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo $49

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Yes, this nearly $50 shampoo is a splurge, but it is certainly worth it if you crave supermodel-worthy hair. The brand's signature blend—watermelon, lychee, and edelweiss flower extracts—prevents your dye job from fading and smells as delicious as you could imagine. Mediterranean cypress extract, argan, and maracuja oil tame frizz and replenish your dry, thirsty strands.