Beauty

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

Published

10 months ago

8 July 2025

You’ve probably asked yourself this more times than you care to admit—how often should I wash my hair? Maybe you’ve gone down a rabbit hole of YouTube tutorials and haircare threads. Maybe you’ve tried copying your cousin’s routine because her hair always looks good. But the truth is, there’s no single right answer—especially not when you factor in your hair type, your lifestyle, and the climate you live in.

In South Africa, where a short flight can take you from Gauteng’s dry winters to the salt-heavy air of the Cape, washing your hair isn’t just a matter of routine—it’s about knowing what your hair needs where you are, and when.

Natural Hair: Keep It Clean, But Don’t Chase Squeaky

If you’ve got natural hair, you already know it behaves differently depending on how you treat it. “A lot of people think natural hair is strong because it’s thick, but it’s actually quite delicate,” says Dr Nelisiwe Mabuza, a Johannesburg-based dermatologist. “Over-washing can strip the scalp and leave hair feeling brittle.”

She recommends washing every 10 to 14 days, especially in cities like Jo’burg, where the air is dry and dust tends to settle easily. Cape Town residents may find themselves washing a bit more often, especially in summer when humidity and sweat become factors.

Mbali Zulu, a Cape Town stylist who works mostly with afro-textured hair, says knowing when to wash comes down to how your scalp feels. “If it’s itchy or flaky, it probably needs a wash. But if your hair still feels moisturised and your scalp is calm, you can hold off.”

Co-washing (rinsing with conditioner instead of shampoo) can help in between full wash days, especially for those who exercise or live in hot areas. But as Mbali warns, “Don’t fall into the trap of co-washing endlessly. Your scalp still needs a proper cleanse now and then.”

Relaxed Hair: Be Gentle, But Consistent

Relaxed hair needs just as much attention—but for different reasons. “Because the chemical process changes the structure of the hair, it tends to be more fragile,” explains Dr Mabuza. “Once a week is usually fine, but make sure you’re using products that won’t dry the hair out further.”

Towel-drying too roughly or skipping conditioner are common missteps. “Relaxed hair loves moisture,” Mbali says. “Especially the ends—they dry out faster than the roots. If you live in Jo’burg, where the air gets very dry in winter, using a light oil or leave-in cream after washing can go a long way.”

Protective Styles: Out of Sight, Not Out of Mind

Wearing braids, wigs, or weaves doesn’t mean you can forget about your hair underneath. “A lot of people go six weeks or more without washing their hair when it’s in a protective style. That’s too long,” says Mbali.

Whether you’re in Cape Town or Jo’burg, the scalp still builds up oil, sweat and dust—even if your strands are tucked away. Every two weeks, give your scalp a proper clean. A watered-down shampoo applied with a nozzle bottle or cotton pad can do the job. Rinse gently. Don’t flood your style.

Dr Mabuza adds that a dirty scalp can lead to itching, bumps, and in some cases, fungal issues. “Just because you can’t see your hair doesn’t mean you should ignore it. Clean hair grows better. Simple as that.”

Weather Matters More Than You Think

Your city’s climate changes how your hair reacts to washing. Johannesburg’s dry winters can lead to faster moisture loss, making over-washing a problem. In Cape Town, especially during summer, humidity can leave your scalp sweaty and oily, which may mean you’ll need to wash more often.

Mbali puts it plainly: “If you’re sweating more, or your hair feels heavy or sticky, wash it. Don’t wait because someone on Instagram said they wash once a month. You’re not living their life.”

What to Pay Attention To

Forget trying to follow someone else’s exact routine. Instead, learn to pay attention to your own hair. Is your scalp itchy? Are your roots sticky? Do your curls feel stiff or dull? These small signs tell you when it’s time to wash.

And be honest with yourself about product use. “Sometimes it’s not dirt—it’s just too much oil, gel or edge control,” Mbali laughs. “People layer too much, thinking it’s care. But eventually, all that buildup needs to be washed off.”

Final Thoughts

There’s no gold standard. Some people wash once a week. Others can go two or three. What matters is that your scalp stays clean, your hair feels healthy, and you’re not blindly following routines that don’t fit your life.

“It’s not about being perfect,” says Dr Mabuza. “It’s about being consistent in a way that works for you. If your hair is clean, hydrated, and not breaking, you’re probably doing just fine.”

So next time you wonder if it’s wash day—check in with your hair. Not your calendar. Not TikTok. Just you.

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Beauty

5 Morning Rituals to Boost Your Skin’s Metabolic Glow

Published

2 weeks ago

6 April 2026

Tega Ekeri

Photo - Pinterest

Skin follows its own repair cycle overnight. Circulation slows while cell turnover continues. What you do in the morning can either support this process or work against it. These habits focus on how the body functions, not just what is applied to the skin. Small, consistent actions tend to have more impact than occasional intensive routines.

Start with Water Before Anything Else

Photo – Pinterest

Drink water before coffee or breakfast. Overnight dehydration often shows up as dullness or uneven texture. Rehydrating early helps maintain the conditions needed for normal circulation and skin function. If needed, add citrus or a pinch of salt for taste. Consistent hydration also supports overall balance in the body, which reflects gradually on the skin.

Cleanse Based on What Your Skin Needs

Photo – Pinterest

Not everyone needs a full cleanse in the morning. For dry or sensitive skin, rinsing with lukewarm water may be enough. Over-cleansing can strip natural oils and may increase oil production later in the day. If you cleanse, use a mild product and avoid hot water. The focus should be on removing sweat and overnight buildup without weakening the skin barrier or causing irritation.

Use Light Movement to Support Circulation

Photo – Pinterest

A short period of movement in the morning can support blood flow. This can be stretching, walking, or basic mobility exercises. Circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to the skin, and even small increases can improve how the skin looks temporarily. Regular movement also supports overall wellbeing, which contributes to more stable skin over time.

Eat to Support Skin Function

Photo – Pinterest

If you eat in the morning, include protein, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich foods. This helps maintain stable blood sugar and supports skin repair processes. Large fluctuations in blood sugar over time can contribute to oil imbalance and breakouts. Keeping meals simple and consistent makes it easier to maintain this habit daily.

Focus on Protection in the Morning

Photo – Pinterest

Morning skincare should centre on protection. After cleansing, apply a suitable moisturiser, followed by sunscreen. Daily sun exposure affects collagen and pigmentation, even when it is cloudy. Avoid overloading the skin with multiple active products during the day, as this can increase sensitivity. Focus on supporting the skin barrier and reducing exposure to environmental stress.

Why These Habits Matter

These steps align with how the body functions in the morning: hydration, circulation, nutrition, and protection. Both internal habits and topical care influence skin condition. Over time, daily routines support clearer, more balanced skin and help maintain an even tone and texture.

Beauty

5 Things to Know About Plumping Lip Gloss

Published

2 weeks ago

4 April 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

Plumping lip gloss has quickly become one of the most talked about beauty products on social media. Promising a good-looking pout, it has captured the attention of beauty lovers searching for a quick confidence boost. These formulas combine skincare ingredients with cosmetic innovation to enhance appearance and create the illusion of added volume in seconds. Before trying this trending beauty product, here are five important things to know and why it continues to dominate conversations in the beauty world.

Plumping Lip Gloss Creates Temporary Fullness

Plumping gloss does not permanently increase lip size, it has a temporary effect that makes it appear fuller for a short time. When blood vessels expand, they swell slightly, creating a fuller appearance. Hydrating ingredients also smooth fine lines, which makes them look big. The result lasts only a few hours before fading.

The Tingling Sensation Is Science

Lip Plumper: Instagram

If you feel a cooling sensation after applying plumping gloss, it’s normal. Many products contain mild irritants such as menthol, peppermint, cinnamon and ginger. These ingredients trigger increased circulation in the lips, which causes slight swelling. The sensation does not mean the product is better. Experts explain that the feeling is an increase in blood flow.

Hydrating Ingredients Play a Big Role

Not all plumping glosses rely on irritation. Many modern formulas use hydration. When lips are well hydrated, they appear smoother. These hydration based plumpers are gentler and more suited for sensitive lips.

Results Are Visual

Lip Plumper: Instagram

Part of the plumping effect is an optical illusion. Experts note that gloss applied to the center of the lips enhances illusion. The combination of shine, hydration, and slight swelling gives it a fuller look.

They Are Safe

Dermatologists say plumping lip gloss is safe for most people when used properly. However, it’s important to consider the ingredients used. Products with spicy extracts can cause dryness and redness. Because lip skin is sensitive, frequent application weakens the skin barrier.

It offers an easy way to beautify the lips. The fuller appearance comes from hydration and increased blood flow.

Beauty

Thuso Mbedu Knows How to Rock Big Hair, These Two Images Say It All

Published

3 weeks ago

30 March 2026

Tega Ekeri

Thuso Mbedu - Instagram

At the South African Film and Television Awards 2026, Thuso Mbedu wore two distinct hairstyles on the red carpet, each shaping the overall look in a different way. Captured by RTC Studios, the images place a clear focus on how variation in hair design can influence proportion, balance and visual direction.

Thuso Mbedu – Instagram

The first hairstyle focuses on volume. A full, rounded afro extends outward, creating width around the face and shoulders. The density is consistent, with no visible gaps, creating a defined outline. This emphasises natural texture with a controlled finish, making the style appear intentional. The width of the afro creates a broad shape, which becomes the dominant visual element from the front and slightly softens the structure of the outfit beneath.

Thuso Mbedu – Instagram

The second hairstyle is more structured and directional. The hair is shaped upward into a defined loop, reducing width while adding height. Styled by Kevin Takudzwa, the look shifts the balance upward, drawing attention to the face and neckline. The shape is compact and controlled, maintaining form without stiffness. This approach changes how the overall look is read, with the emphasis placed more on height than spread.

Thuso Mbedu – Instagram

Make-up by Nonifemi Makeup remains consistent, keeping focus on the hairstyles. Skin is even-toned with a subtle glow.
Together, the two styles highlight contrast in approach. One relies on outward volume and width, while the other focuses on height and structure. With the emphasis on hair, these looks show how different treatments of natural texture can create clearly distinct results on the same red carpet, while also reflecting Mbedu’s ease with exploring varied styling directions.