Is washing your hair too often okay?

Experts talk about tackling greasiness and how often it is okay to wash your tresses

It's certainly hot and you're definitely sweating it out while commuting to work, at the gym or even at home. These increased levels of perspiration might make you feel like washing your hair every day. Experts tackle common questions that you may have about this predicament.

Is a daily hair wash okay?
It's not necessary to do so, feels city cosmetologist Dr Sama Rais. "Preferably not everyday as shampoos have harsh chemicals and can remove the essential oils from the scalp, causing an over-drying of the scalp. Thrice a week is good enough. Even if you perspire, just pour plain water on the hair. If your hair suffers from Hyperhidrosis (problem of excessive sweating), you may have to wash everyday. But use only a mild shampoo, which is suitable for to your hair," she says.

Overcoming dandruff issues
Dandruff and an itchy scalp is probably one of the biggest and most common offshoots of the sun playing havoc on hair. Says cosmetologist Dr Jaishree Manchanda, "There are two types of dandruff, oily and dry. Oily dandruff is dangerous as its eats away the pigment of your hair, while dry dandruff falls off. The former can give rise to numerous problems like pimples, pigmentation, etc, as dandruff on the scalp prevents blood circulation." She also advises staying away from using heavy oils. "If you have oily skin, just use a lighter oil, like olive oil, and massage it for 15 minutes, followed by a hot towel treatment, then wash it off. Home-based treatments include putting ginger juice on the scalp. Leave it overnight and wash it off. Also, wash hair every alternate day with a mild, anti-dandruff shampoo. Eating green vegetables like palak and methi helps the hair," she adds.

Using henna, a myth
Henna actually dries the hair and most stylists will tell you should not use it, saysa Dr Rais, adding, "Henna makes the hair more porous and can can turn hair brittle. Instead, use a good conditioner, which has a sunscreen or even a hair serum."

How to use hair serums
Hair serums improve the texture of the hair and untangle it, leaving it softer. They are perfect for that dry, frizz that summer bestows. Anyone can use it but there are rules to follow. "If you use too much, the hair can look oily, so, take only a few drops on the fingertips and apply on the hair, not scalp," says Dr Manchanda, adding, "Look for products that have argan oil as well as those with walnut and almond oil. Avoid those having silicon. After you have used a hair serum, don't use a spray after that."

Tips for healthy hair
- Trim away damaged ends of the hair, especially if they are frizzy.
- Wear a hat, scarf or peak cap (not too tight) to protect hair from damaging UV rays.
- Use a hair sunscreen if you are going out between 11am and 4 pm as that is when the sun's rays are harshest.
- Always use a little conditioner on the hair before you go swimming.

Thinking about a hair spa?
States naturopath Nirmala Shetty, "Go natural when it comes to a hair spa. Look for nutrients in what nature provides us. For instance, grind hibiscus into a paste and apply on hair. It darkens and strengthens hair roots. Methi (rich in iron and darkens hair) and neem (antibiotic and has germicidal properties) also increase hair strength. Aloe vera is a powerful antioxidant and can tackle scalp allergies and boils. It is also a great hair strengthener. Avocado is full of antioxidants and is especially good for those who have coloured hair."