If you’ve been skipping wash days to “protect” your scalp, you might want to rethink your routine. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mamina Turegano (@dr.mamina), two of the most common habits meant to help with dandruff and shedding can actually make them worse—and even contribute to scalp inflammation and hair loss.
“This one’s for all my girlies who deal with dandruff and hair loss and are washing their hair less,” Dr. Mamina starts in her now-viral TikTok. “I get it. You’re seeing more flakes, you think your scalp is dry. Or you’re seeing hair in the drain and you think the shower is causing it. But it’s actually the opposite.”
@dr.mamina There is a fear of “dry scalp” or hair loss when washing one’s hair, but it’s not washing your hair that makes the problems worse. What other questions to have about your scalp and hair?! #dandruff #dryscalp #dandruffsolution #haircare #dermatologist original sound – Dr. Mamina Turegano, MD
Mistake #1: Washing Your Hair Less Because of Dandruff
Many people assume dandruff is caused by a dry scalp, but according to Dr. Mamina, the real culprit is excess oil and yeast overgrowth.
“When you have more dandruff on your scalp, it’s actually because you have more oil or grease building up,” she explains. “The oil feeds the yeast on your scalp, and the byproduct of that yeast is the flakiness you see.”
In other words, flaking isn’t a sign to skip shampoo—it’s a sign you need to cleanse more consistently. Her tip? Wash more frequently to reduce buildup and yeast growth.
“For people with dandruff, washing your hair more often and more consistently is so important.”
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Mistake #2: Avoiding Shampoo Because You’re Seeing Hair in the Shower
If you’re afraid of seeing strands in the drain, you’re not alone—but avoiding shampoo may actually lead to more hair loss over time.
“When you’re washing your hair less frequently, more oil builds up, and that actually causes more micro inflammation in the scalp that can further hair loss,” says Dr. Mamina.
So how often should you be washing? It depends on your hair type:
- Straight to wavy hair: At least every other day
- Textured or coily hair: Aim for at least once a week
And don’t worry—shower shedding is normal. It’s just the hair that would’ve fallen out gradually, all releasing at once.
“The shower isn’t causing your hair to fall out—it’s just when you're finally rinsing off the shedding that’s already happened.”
Bottom Line
If you’re dealing with flakes and fallout, don’t fear the shampoo bottle. “Cleansing more consistently can actually calm the scalp, reduce inflammation, and help protect your hair,” Dr. Mamina says.
So go ahead—lather up. Your scalp (and hairline) will thank you.
