If you have curly or wavy hair, you’ve probably heard everything from “wash daily” to “never wash your hair again.”
But the truth is this:

Curly and wavy hair needs a different washing routine than straight hair.

Because curls are naturally drier, more delicate, and more prone to frizz, the right washing schedule keeps them hydrated, defined, and healthy — without weighing them down.


Here’s your simple, practical guide to how often you should wash your curly or wavy hair (and how to wash it properly so your curls stay gorgeous).


1. The Short Answer: Wash Curly / Wavy Hair 1–3 Times per Week


Most people with curls or waves do best washing their hair:

👉 Every 2–4 days
or
👉 1–3 times per week


This keeps your curls:

  • hydrated

  • defined

  • less frizzy

  • easier to manage


Over‑washing strips your natural oils (curls need these oils!).
Under‑washing can cause buildup that makes curls look flat or dull.


2. Match Your Wash Schedule to Your Curl Pattern


Your curl type plays a huge role in how often you should wash.


Wavy Hair (2A–2C):

✔ Wash 2–3 times per week
Waves get weighed down more easily, so a slightly more frequent wash helps keep volume.


Loose Curls (3A):

✔ Wash 1–2 times per week
Loose curls need more hydration and less shampoo.


Medium–Tight Curls (3B–3C):

✔ Wash once per week (or twice max)
More moisture = better curl shape.


Tighter Curls & Coils (4A–4C):

✔ Wash every 7–10 days
Because curls are naturally very dry, this pattern benefits from as little washing as possible.


We’ll help you identify your curl pattern if you’re not sure where you fall.


3. Use the “Co‑Wash + Shampoo” Method for Healthier Curls


One of the best routines for curly/wavy hair is alternating between:

✔ Co‑washing (washing with conditioner)

and

✔ Shampoo washing

This keeps the scalp clean without stripping curls.

Example weekly routine:

  • Monday: Co‑wash

  • Thursday: Shampoo + conditioner


This is amazing for hydration and curl definition.


4. Always Use Sulphate‑Free Shampoo


Sulphates are harsh detergents that strip your natural oils — not ideal for curls.


Instead, use:

  • sulphate‑free shampoos

  • hydrating formulas

  • curl‑friendly cleansers


This helps your curls stay soft, springy, and moisturised.


5. Condition Every. Single. Time.


Curly and wavy hair thrives on hydration.


No matter how often you wash, always condition:

✔ mid‑lengths and ends
✔ gently detangle with fingers or a wide‑tooth comb
✔ let it sit for 2–3 minutes
✔ rinse with lukewarm water


This boosts curl formation and reduces frizz dramatically.


6. Add a Weekly Hydrating Mask


A weekly mask keeps curls soft, defined, and elastic.


Choose masks that focus on:

  • moisture

  • repair

  • frizz control

  • curl definition


This helps prevent breakage and keeps curls bouncy.


7. Refresh Curls Between Washes (Instead of Rewashing!)


Instead of overwashing, try refreshing your curls:


How to refresh:

  • Lightly mist hair with water

  • Scrunch in curl cream or a leave‑in spray

  • Air‑dry or diffuse

  • Smooth frizz with a tiny bit of serum


Refreshing gives curls a “day 1” look — without needing a full wash day.


8. Adjust Your Routine Based on Activity & Lifestyle


You may need to wash more or less often depending on:

  • gym workouts

  • sweating

  • humidity

  • swimming

  • your hair’s natural oiliness


If you sweat often, simply rinse with water or co‑wash instead of full shampoo washes.


✨ Want help choosing the best curl care routine for your hair?

Book an appointment and we’ll create a personalised wash schedule, product routine, and curl‑friendly cut that makes your curls or waves look fuller, softer, and more defined — every day.

 

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