Doctor reveals exactly how often you should wash your hair

It’s something that most people do at least once a week without thinking twice about it. 

But it turns out you’ve probably been washing your hair wrong this entire time. 

Dr Pallavi Bradshaw, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at AXA Heath Insurance, claims that you should wash your hair daily during the UK heatwave. 

This might sound excessive to many people – particularly if you have an elaborate shampooing routine. 

However, with pollen levels set to soar across the UK, changing up your hair-washing schedule could be a game-changer.

‘As well as clinging to our clothes, pollen can remain present on our body and hair,’ Dr Bradshaw explained. 

‘Therefore, hay fever sufferers need to shower, wash their hair thoroughly, and change their clothes after being outside.’

According to the Met Office, pollen levels are ‘very high’ across London & South East England, and the East of England today.

And by tomorrow, the whole of England, Wales, and Northern Ireland will have ‘high’ levels. 

Most hayfever sufferers know to stock up on antihistamines and to stay inside during these conditions. 

However, you might not be aware that it’s also best to wash your hair daily during these so-called ‘pollen bombs’.

‘Showering reduces the risk of further irritation and can minimise the severity of hay fever symptoms,’ Dr Bradshaw explained.

‘It is recommended to use warm rather than hot showers to avoid drying out the skin and, where possible, use hypoallergenic soaps or shampoos.’

Dr Bradshaw’s advice comes shortly after Nigel Bearman, home cleaning expert and founder of Daily Poppins, advised Brits not to dry their clothes outside during the heatwave. 

‘Hanging your clothes, bedding or towels outside on high pollen days is a recipe for itchy eyes and a stuffy nose,’ Mr Bearman explained. 

‘The wet laundry acts like a sponge, soaking up all the pollen.

‘It settles into the fibres and clings on as the fabric dries, meaning it’ll end up in your bed, wardrobe and on your skin. 

‘It’s no wonder so many people have allergy flare-ups even in their own homes.

‘On high pollen days, I always recommend drying your clothes indoors, ideally near a window or with decent airflow,’ he added. 

‘If you’re short on space, use a collapsible drying rack in a well-ventilated room.’