Triple Washing Your Hair: Is It Overkill Or Overdue?

There have always been a lot of questions and myths surrounding the proper way to take care of your hair. With all of the haircare products on the market, including shampoos for every texture and condition, oils for growth and moisture, as well as styling products, it's hard to know what to believe. However, one thing is for sure: Washing your hair is one of the most important things you can do for healthy and luscious locks. Of course, how often you need to wash your hair will depend on the texture and how quickly the strands get dirty or greasy. Still, washing should be a huge priority in your hair routine, as it actually does promote a healthy mane.

"Shampooing removes sebum or oil that normally coats the hair shaft," double board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, M.D., tells Allure. "Sebum helps keep hair soft, smooth, and pliant. But sebum is constantly produced by oil glands, and unless the hair is washed the sebum accumulates and can make hair greasy and weighed down." In addition, washing your hair regularly removes the buildup that gets left behind from all of the products that are used on your hair, such as dry shampoo, hairspray, and more.

The proper way to wash your hair has also been debated over the years, with some people going as far as triple washing their strands. But is that simply too much for one wash?

Most people have heard of the lather, rinse, repeat method for washing their hair, and many opt to scrub their hair twice while in the shower. While double-shampooing has become normal, especially as people learn they don't need to wash their hair as often as they once thought, some people are taking it a step further and triple washing their hair. While this may sound like it's a bit too much, it can prove to be beneficial in your haircare routine.

One of the most important parts of washing your hair on a regular basis is removing the buildup of products and giving your scalp a deep clean. Triple washing your locks ensures that your hair and scalp are fully cleansed and detoxed. "We recommend doing two or three washes because you have to ensure complete removal of residue on the hair and scalp," a stylist at Salon Yöy in Madrid tells Glamour. "There are many products that leave behind remnants that aren't easily removed from the hair due to their composition and solubility." The stylist added that gently massaging the scalp while shampooing — as well as a thorough rinsing — are crucial steps to making triple washing work for you.

Of course, there is so much more to properly washing your hair than just choosing to lather up three times.

While shampooing your hair may seem like one of the easiest steps in your grooming routine, many people don't know the proper way to actually get their hair clean. One common mistake that people make in the shower is not letting their hair get soaking wet before starting to shampoo. Ensuring that your hair is drenched is the best way to remove dirt and oil from your scalp and locks. Water temperature is also key — be sure not to use water that is too hot, as it can damage your locks.

Finding a shampoo that works best for your specific hair is also crucial. Whether you deal with frizz, fine hair, thick hair, curls, or split ends, there is a shampoo that will likely work for you if you do your research. Of course, don't forget to condition your strands, keeping the conditioner away from your roots. Following a hair wash, putting the correct products in your hair — whether that be oil, leave-in conditioner, or heat protectant — is also key to keeping your hair looking gorgeous.

Everyone has their own preferences while washing their hair. However, with a bit of research and some trial and error, it's not hard to find a great routine that will work for you, whether you choose to triple-wash your locks or not.