Many experts have slightly conflicting advice, which makes this topic even more confusing. But if you want some frame of reference, here’s the advice of Kasey Bertucci, hairstylist and co-founder of Salon 120 West in Boston: Those who like more frequent washes should cleanse their hair every two/three days.

Those with curly hair and a drier scalp can go five or seven days between washes. And according to the American Academy of Dermatology, people with tight curls or textured hair should wash their hair every other week or no more than once a week. Finding the perfect hair routine will take some trial and error, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different frequencies and different products—or none.

More hair tips

• Olive oil has not been proven to help with moisturizing the scalp, according to Dr. Liu. Instead, use coconut oil to condition the hair and reduce damage.

• Don’t use anti-dandruff shampoo daily because it can dry the scalp and make the hair feel frizzy, said Dr. Liu. Rather, use it two or three times a week and leave it in for five minutes before washing it out.

• Colored hair should be washed less often and with moisturizing, sulfate-free products.

• Thin hair should be cleansed more often and not with products containing certain ingredients like dimethicone.

• Styling products can build up, damage, and irritate the scalp and hair. So if you use these products often, you may need to wash your hair more frequently.

• When you shampoo, focus on the scalp since the ends of the hair will be washed during the rinsing.

• You don’t need much shampoo, just a dollop about the size and volume of a raspberry.