Does frequent shampooing cause hair loss?

Mar 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 22 years old this year. I feel that I have been experiencing significant hair loss lately. Recently, I noticed that people around me usually wash their hair every two days, but I generally wash mine every day. Can frequent shampooing cause hair loss?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin

Washing your hair too frequently may lead to hair loss, but there are other factors that can also contribute to this condition. Excessive shampooing can damage hair quality. Chemical ingredients contained in shampoos, such as alkaline substances or surfactants, may remove natural oils from the hair, causing it to become dry, brittle, prone to breakage and split ends. This kind of hair damage, accumulated over time, may indirectly affect the stability of the hair and increase the risk of hair loss. Additionally, if shampooing techniques are improper—for example, using a shampoo unsuitable for your hair type or vigorously scratching the scalp during washing—this can also damage the scalp and hair follicles, thereby increasing the risk of hair loss. Moreover, frequent shampooing without proper hair moisturizing may result in dry and fragile hair, increasing the likelihood of breakage and shedding.

To maintain healthy hair, it is recommended to control the frequency of shampooing appropriately and avoid excessive washing. When washing your hair, choose shampoo and conditioner suitable for your hair type, and gently massage the scalp with the fingertips, avoiding vigorous scratching. At the same time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a balanced diet, regular sleep patterns, and stress reduction—is also beneficial in preventing hair loss.