Pollution and Hair: How Often to Wash and How to Protect It

Dust and smoke cling to oily scalps and hair. If you live in a polluted city, your hair wash habit may need to change.

How often to wash

Two to three times a week works for most people. If you commute through dusty roads, wash when the scalp feels dirty or itchy, with a mild shampoo.

Protect on the go

• Tie hair back or cover with a scarf.
• Avoid leaving heavy oil on while commuting. It traps dust.

When you get home

• Brush out dust.
• If hair feels gritty, wash with Neem & Aloe Vera Shampoo.

Weekly care

Oil and wash once a week. See our oiling guide.

Dust on the scalp

Dust and smoke mix with scalp oil and can make the scalp itchy and the hair dull. If you commute daily, you may need a slightly more frequent wash than someone who stays indoors.

• Wash when the scalp feels dirty or itchy.
• Use a mild shampoo.
• Avoid heavy oil before commuting.
• Cover hair with a scarf.

Weekly care

Do one oil massage and wash a week, and give your scalp a rest from styling products.

Frequently asked questions

Can pollution make my scalp itchy?

Dust can irritate it. Wash with a mild shampoo.

Should I wear a scarf?

A cotton scarf helps in dusty traffic.

Does oil attract dust?

Heavy oil can. Avoid it before long commutes.

Quick takeaway

Wash when the scalp feels dirty, protect hair on the road and rinse dust when you get home.

This article is general information about traditional Ayurvedic hair, skin and bath care. It is not medical advice. If you have sudden or patchy hair loss, a sore, itchy or flaky scalp, or skin that is painful, swollen or not improving, please see a doctor or dermatologist. Always patch-test a new product first.