The Scoop On Frequent Hair Washing

By Kate Williams

Q: I've heard that you shouldnt wash your hair every day, but I work out a lot and would prefer to shampoo after exercising. Is frequent washing actually bad for my hair?

A: Avoiding everyday shampooing isn't a hard-and-fast rule, says Joel Warren, co-owner of the Warren-Tricomi salons in New York City and Greenwich, Conn. Your hair is very similar to your skin, he says. As long as you're using the right products for your hair type, regular washing can actually help keep hair healthy. Here, tips on finding the right shampoo for your strands:

If you have color-treated hair The key to making your shade last is keeping the cuticle (the outer layer of the hair strand) closed after hair has been colored (dyes work by opening the cuticle and depositing color), Warren says. This locks in your hue. Look for products created for color-treated strands. Editors' picks: Redkens Color Extend line ($9$15; redken.com), which includes shampoo, conditioner, an intensive strengthening treatment and even color-depositing conditioners (conditioners with temporary pigment to perk up color). Or try Warren-Tricomis Pure Strength Three-C System of Hair Care ($75; warren-tricomi.com), which contains an added step beyond shampoo and conditioner: close, as in closing of the cuticle. This helps make the hair stronger and shinier.

If you have dry hair Use shampoos that are extra-gentle and formulated to infuse moisture. Avoid volumizing shampoos (which bring life to fine hair by making it super clean) and anything labeled "clarifying." Editors' pick: Matrix Biolage Ultra-Hydrating Shampoo ($10; matrix.com for salons) with lemongrass extract and wheat-germ lipids.

If you have oily hair Look for shampoos with ingredients that are astringent, such as witch hazel and rosemary, as well as lightweight conditioners. Editors' picks: Clairol Herbal Essences Clarifying Shampoo and Clean-Rinsing Conditioner for Normal to Oily Hair ($3 each; at drugstores), with rosemary and jasmine extracts.