Is it permissible to wash one's hair during the postpartum confinement period?

It is permissible to wash your hair during the postpartum confinement period (坐月子).

During the confinement period, due to increased metabolic activity, new mothers tend to sweat easily. Combined with lochia discharge and lactation, their bodies become dirtier more easily than those of the average person. Therefore, maintaining personal hygiene is very important. Washing the hair helps keep the hair and scalp clean, prevents bacterial infections, and also helps relieve scalp itching and discomfort.

When washing the hair during the postpartum confinement period, it is advisable to wait about a week after childbirth, when the mother's physical condition has basically stabilized, before beginning to wash the hair. When washing the hair, try to choose a time of day when the temperature is higher, avoiding washing the hair early in the morning or late at night when temperatures are lower, to prevent catching a chill. Additionally, while washing the hair, gently massage the scalp with the fingertips, avoiding vigorous scratching, as this can promote blood circulation, relieve scalp tension, and help clean the scalp.

The frequency of washing the hair during the postpartum confinement period should not be too high; generally washing the hair once or twice a week is sufficient. Moderate cleaning is adequate to meet hygiene needs, as excessive washing may disrupt the scalp's natural oil balance and potentially lead to scalp problems.