How often should you wash curly hair?
When it needs it. The American Academy of Dermatology says dry, textured, curly, or thick hair can be shampooed as needed, at least once every 2 to 3 weeks.
Base it on your scalp
AAD says to wash hair based on how often it gets dirty or oily. Straight hair with an oily scalp may need daily shampoo. Curly hair usually needs far less.
If you see flakes
Flakes can mean you are not shampooing often enough, or not using the right conditioner, oil, or scalp moisturizer for your hair type.
When to stop
Stop a product and see a board-certified dermatologist if you get burning, swelling, blistering, hives, or symptoms that get worse. Get urgent help for trouble breathing or swelling of the face or lips.
Source
Reviewed September 23, 2026. General education, not diagnosis or personal medical advice.