Should You Be “Hair Training”? What Happens When You Skip Your Wash Days…?

“Hair training” has become a popular concept online, especially among those looking to reduce how often they wash their hair. The idea is simple: if you extend the time between wash days, your scalp will eventually “adjust” by producing less oil. But is this method rooted in science, or is it just another hair care myth? Let’s dive in!

What Is Hair Training?

Hair training is the process of gradually extending the time between shampoo sessions with the belief that doing so will “train” the scalp to produce less oil. People often begin by washing every few days, then slowly push it to once a week, every two weeks, or even less frequently.

The main motivation behind this trend is to reduce oiliness, simplify hair care routines, and minimize the use of shampoo, and in some cases “stick it to the beauty industry”…

Are There Any Potential Benefits?

There are a few perceived benefits to hair training, particularly for those with certain hair types or protective styles:

• Reduced manipulation: Fewer wash days can mean less detangling, combing, and breakage.
• Lower product usage: Less frequent washing might lead to using fewer products over time.
• Convenience: Spacing out wash days can feel more manageable for those with time-consuming hair routines.

However, these potential pros DO NOT outweigh the long-term consequences of poor scalp hygiene. If you haven’t guessed by now…we’re not a fan of hair training

The Problems With Hair Training

1. Scalp Buildup

When you don’t wash your scalp regularly, oil (sebum), sweat, dirt, product residue, and dead skin cells begin to accumulate. This buildup can:

• Clog hair follicles
• Cause itchiness and irritation
• Contribute to dandruff and flaking
• Create an unhealthy environment for hair growth

2. Disrupted Scalp Microbiome

Your scalp hosts a delicate ecosystem of bacteria and fungi. Excess buildup and infrequent cleansing can disturb this balance, leading to conditions like seborrheic dermatitis or fungal overgrowth.

3. No Real Control Over Oil Production

The belief that your scalp will stop producing oil if you wash it less is inaccurate. Sebum production is largely controlled by genetics and hormones — not how often you shampoo. If your scalp is oily, it will likely remain oily regardless of how often you wash.

4. Hindered Hair Growth

Healthy hair starts at the scalp. If the follicles are clogged or inflamed due to buildup, it can lead to slower hair growth or even increased shedding.

What You Should Do Instead

Create a wash routine that is based on your lifestyle, scalp condition, and hair type. And also, please note, protective styles are not a reason to skip scalp care — your scalp still needs to be cleaned.

Click here for tips on how to build your wash routine

Click here for 3 mistakes you might be making with protective styling

Why Your Scalp Needs to Be Clean

Just like facial skin, your scalp is exposed to environmental elements, sweat, and natural oils. A clean scalp:

• Supports healthy hair follicles
• Reduces itchiness and inflammation
• Helps maintain the natural balance of the scalp microbiome
• Provides the ideal foundation for strong, healthy hair growth

Skipping wash days in the name of “training” can sabotage these benefits. Instead, prioritize regular cleansing and gentle care

Are you cowashing or thinking about it, click here for why we advise against it…

Our best-selling bundle which will entirely CHANGE the way your scalp behaves so that you can grow healthier hair Click here to learn more

In Conclusion

Your scalp has the same needs as the skin on the rest of your body. It needs, and wants, to be kept clean so that it can thrive. Neglecting scalp hygiene can lead to a range of issues, from clogged follicles to scalp irritation and slowed growth.

Rather than follow trends, listen to what your hair and scalp actually need. A consistent, gentle wash routine — tailored to your hair type — is the most effective way to support long-term hair health.