This article is part of the Skincare & Grooming hub. Explore related guides on acne care, skin types, and confidence-building habits.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

You may have heard that if you wash your hair less often, it will eventually become less greasy. This idea is often described as “training” your hair.

There is some truth behind it — but it’s not as simple or predictable as it’s sometimes made out to be.

In reality, how often your hair needs washing depends mainly on your scalp type, hormones, and lifestyle, rather than something you can fully control.

Why Hair Gets Greasy in the First Place

Your scalp produces oil (sebum) to keep your hair protected and flexible.

How much oil you produce is influenced by:

• Hormones (especially during the teen years)
• Genetics
• Activity levels (sports, sweating)

This means some people naturally have oilier hair than others, regardless of how often they wash it.

Does Washing Less Reduce Oil?

For some people, washing slightly less often can help the scalp feel more balanced over time. This is because:

• Overwashing can sometimes strip natural oils
• The scalp may respond by producing more oil
• Reducing washing slightly may allow oil levels to settle

However, this doesn’t work the same way for everyone.

Why It Doesn’t Work for Everyone

The idea of “training your hair” has limits.

For many teens:

• Oil production is strongly influenced by hormones
• Hair may still become greasy quickly even with less washing
• Waiting too long between washes can feel uncomfortable

If your scalp is naturally oily, you may still need to wash regularly — and that’s completely normal.

What You Can Actually Control

While you can’t fully control how much oil your scalp produces, you can adjust your routine to manage it more comfortably.

This might include:

• Washing your hair at a frequency that suits your scalp
• Using lightweight products
• Avoiding heavy buildup
• Keeping your routine simple

Small adjustments are usually more effective than trying to force big changes.

Signs You Might Be Washing Too Often

You might benefit from slightly reducing washing if:

• Your scalp feels tight or dry
• Hair becomes greasy again very quickly after washing
• Hair feels dry or brittle

Trying small changes, rather than drastic ones, is usually best.

Signs You Shouldn’t Reduce Washing

It’s usually better to keep your routine as it is if:

• Your scalp feels greasy and uncomfortable
• You’re active and sweat regularly
• Hair becomes difficult to manage between washes

In these cases, washing regularly is part of healthy hair care.

A Balanced Approach

Instead of trying to “train” your hair, a more helpful approach is to:

• Find a washing routine that feels comfortable
• Adjust gradually if needed
• Pay attention to how your scalp responds

This keeps your routine realistic and easier to maintain.

When to Get Advice

If you experience:

• Persistent scalp discomfort
• Sudden changes in oil levels
• Irritation or flaking

It’s a good idea to speak to a pharmacist, GP, or dermatologist.

Final Thoughts

You can’t fully train your hair to need less washing, but you can find a routine that works better for your scalp. For some teens, washing slightly less often may help — but for others, regular washing is still the best option.

Healthy hair care isn’t about following rules — it’s about understanding what works for you.

Take a look at our hair care and styling hub for more guides and tutorials on looking after your hair for a clean, fresh and confident look.