Khaberni - A new trend known as "no shampoo" has recently spread on social media, where influencers encourage the cessation of shampoo to "train" the hair and scalp to be healthier.
However, health experts warn that this practice may have the opposite results, leading to thinning hair and premature graying instead of improving its health.
Contrary to the popular belief that regular hair washing causes hair loss, science clarifies that insufficient cleaning can be more harmful.
The accumulation of natural oils known as sebum and dirt leads to increased inflammation in the scalp, microbial imbalance between bacteria and fungi, and the accumulation of oxidized fatty substances around the hair follicles, all of which contribute to the contraction of the follicles and hinder their growth.
For those who already suffer from hair loss, the scalp is under pressure from dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for shrinking follicles and making hair thinner, shorter, and less pigmented. When residues are not removed with regular cleaning, the accumulation of fats that may trap this hormone near the follicles worsens the problem.
Those who stop washing their hair for long periods often suffer persistent itching, increased oiliness, visible dandruff, and sandy-textured buildups around the follicles. These signs indicate the presence of keratin residues, oxidized fats, and excessive microbial growth, which spoil the health of the scalp and negatively affect the hair.
Even if hair loss is not an existing problem, neglecting the cleaning routine may lead to accelerated premature graying, in addition to aggravating scalp problems.
Sulfates in shampoo are accused of causing excessive dryness, but there is no scientific evidence proving that they lead to hair loss, they mainly affect the outer layer of the hair and the surface of the scalp, and may cause irritation only for those with sensitive scalps.
