The No Poo method: does washing your hair without shampoo actually work?

Heard of the No Poo method? Despite the name, it has nothing to do with your toilet habits. ‘No Poo’ simply means no shampoo. The idea has gained a following among people looking to simplify their haircare routine or use fewer conventional hair products. Some ditch shampoo completely and wash with water, while others use alternative cleansing methods.^1,3

The No Poo method is an approach to haircare that involves reducing or completely cutting out traditional shampoo. There isn't one set way to do it. Some people wash their hair using only water, while others use conditioner or alternative cleansers. The idea is generally to clean the hair and scalp without conventional shampoo. But shampoo does have a purpose. It helps remove dirt and excess oil from your hair and your scalp, so cutting it out won't necessarily suit everyone.¹ How often you need to shampoo can also vary depending on your hair and scalp needs.^2,5

People try the No Poo method for different reasons, from simplifying their routine and using fewer haircare products to cutting down on packaging. Your cleansing needs can also depend on your hair type. For example, curly and coily hair can be more prone to dryness and breakage, so frequent shampooing may contribute to further dryness.⁵

Your hair may feel oilier if you start washing it less frequently. While you may hear that oil production eventually settles as your scalp adjusts, there isn’t currently scientific evidence to prove this.¹ How oily your hair gets can be influenced by factors including washing frequency and your individual hair and scalp characteristics.^2,5 So, while you'll find plenty of No Poo method results and personal experiences online, they shouldn't be treated as proof that going shampoo-free will make your hair healthier, stronger or less oily.^1,3

You can rinse your hair with water, which some people following the No Poo method choose as their main approach. However, water and shampoo don't do quite the same job. Shampoo contains cleansing agents that help remove dirt and excess oil from your hair and scalp.¹

Still curious? There's no single scientifically established way to follow the No Poo method, so it's worth approaching it as a change to your haircare routine rather than a set programme with guaranteed results.^1,3 If you want to experiment with washing your hair less frequently, you could:

If dandruff is the reason you're considering the No Poo method, ditching shampoo may not be the answer. Dandruff isn't caused by poor hygiene, although the flakes may be more noticeable if you don't wash your hair regularly.⁴ The NHS recommends using an anti-dandruff shampoo and looking for ingredients such as ketoconazole, selenium sulphide or coal tar with salicylic acid.⁴ If your dandruff hasn't improved after using an anti-dandruff shampoo for a month or your scalp is very itchy, red or swollen, speak to your GP.⁴ 

Not necessarily. What works for one head of hair won't always work for another. Hair texture, styling practices and scalp health can all affect what kind of haircare routine works best.⁵ For example, curly and coily hair has different structural characteristics and can be particularly prone to dryness and breakage.^1,5 This means cleansing and moisturising routines may need to be adapted to suit the hair type.^1,5 If your lengths are prone to dryness, you could also explore our pick of the best hair oils and how to use them. But that doesn't mean completely avoiding shampoo is automatically better for curls – it's about finding a routine that suits your hair and keeps your scalp healthy.

It might feel oilier than you're used to, particularly if you've changed how often you wash it. But as we’ve mentioned, there currently isn’t any scientific evidence to prove that oil production eventually settles.¹ How oily your hair becomes can be affected by washing frequency and your hair and scalp characteristics.^2,5 So, use how your hair and scalp actually feel as your guide. If you're experiencing persistent oiliness, itching, flakes or build-up, then washing more frequently or using a suitable shampoo may be a better fit.^1,2 

Curious about going No Poo? There's nothing wrong with experimenting with your haircare routine, but ditching shampoo isn't a shortcut to healthier hair – and it won't suit everyone. Instead of following a set of rules, pay attention to what your hair and scalp are telling you. The best routine is ultimately one that keeps your scalp comfortable and your hair feeling its best.

Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.