Can I Wash Hair With Face Wash?

Leah LOVES hair. So much so, she dedicated an entire website to it! One of the founders of Hair Everyday and Chief Editor, Leah enjoys reviewing all the hair products and showcasing the best. She believes her most underrated articles are her hair care tips!

Is it safe to use face wash on your hair? Hair care expert, with 10 years of experience, reveals the truth about using face cleansers for scalp and the consequences you might face.

As a hair care expert and stylist for the past decade, I’ve encountered countless clients with scalp concerns. One question that frequently pops up is whether face wash can be used on the scalp.

While it might seem like a convenient alternative, the answer isn’t so straightforward.

Let’s delve into the reasons why using face wash on your hair might not be the best decision and explore safer alternatives for a healthy scalp.

No, washing your hair with face wash is not recommended. It’s important to use products that are specifically formulated for use on the hair and scalp to ensure that you maintain healthy, nourished hair.

As a hair stylist who has tried various beauty hacks, I have heard of people using face wash to wash their hair. While it may seem like a convenient and time-saving option, it’s important to consider whether it’s actually safe and effective.

Firstly, it’s important to note that face wash and shampoo are designed for different purposes. Face wash is formulated to cleanse the delicate skin on our face, while shampoo is formulated to cleanse the scalp and hair. Using face wash on your hair could potentially strip away natural oils, leaving your hair dry and brittle.

Additionally, face wash may not be able to effectively remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair and scalp. This could lead to scalp irritation, dandruff, and other hair and scalp issues.

According to this study “facial cleanser is gentle and does not damage the skin barrier or result in sebum overcompensation” . (Draelos, Zoe D. “The effect of a daily facial cleanser for normal to oily skin on the skin barrier of subjects with acne.” Cutis vol. 78,1 Suppl (2006): 34-40.) But it is not strong enough to deal with dandruff, dead skin flakes, oil and other dirt/grime accumulated on scalp.

It’s also worth noting that face wash may contain ingredients that are not meant for use on the hair, such as exfoliating beads or acne-fighting ingredients. These ingredients could potentially cause damage to your hair or scalp.

What Happens When You Use Face Wash on Hair

Why You Should Not Use Face Wash To Wash Hair?

As tempting as it may be to use face wash on your hair when you’re in a rush, it’s not a good idea. Face wash is formulated for the delicate skin on your face, and using it on your hair can have some negative consequences.

Face wash is designed to remove excess oil and dirt from your face, which is different from the natural oils that your scalp produces to keep your hair healthy and shiny. Using a harsh face wash on your hair can strip away these natural oils, leaving your hair dry and brittle.
Face wash is not formulated to cleanse the hair and scalp. It may not be able to remove all the dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair, which can lead to scalp irritation and hair damage.
It may contain ingredients that are not suitable for hair. For example, some face washes contain exfoliating beads or acids that can be too harsh for your hair and scalp.

In summary, using face wash on your hair can have negative consequences, including dryness, brittleness, scalp irritation, and hair damage. It’s best to stick to hair care products that are specifically formulated for your hair type and needs.

Potential Risks of Using Face Wash on Hair

Firstly, face wash is designed to cleanse the delicate skin on your face, which is different in texture and composition from the hair on your head. Using face wash on your hair can strip your hair of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends.

Furthermore, many face washes contain harsh chemicals and fragrances that can irritate the scalp and cause dandruff. These chemicals can also damage the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

In addition, face wash is not formulated to remove styling products such as hairspray, gel, and mousse, which can build up on the hair over time. This can lead to a dull, lifeless appearance and make it difficult to style your hair.

Overall, while using face wash on your hair may seem like a quick fix, it is not a recommended practice. It is important to use hair care products that are specifically designed for your hair type and need to maintain healthy, beautiful hair.

Is it safe to use face wash on hair?

No, it is not safe to use face wash on hair. Face wash is specifically formulated for the delicate skin on the face and may contain ingredients that can be harmful to hair. Using face wash on hair can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage to the hair shaft.

Can face wash cause damage to hair?

Yes, face wash can cause damage to hair. The ingredients in face wash are not designed to cleanse hair and can strip the hair of its natural oils. This can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

What are the effects of using face wash on hair?

Using face wash on hair can lead to a number of negative effects. It can cause the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. It can also strip the hair of its natural oils, which can lead to a dry, itchy scalp and dandruff.

Can I use body wash as a substitute for shampoo?

No, it is not recommended to use body wash as a substitute for shampoo. Body wash is formulated for the skin and may contain ingredients that can be harmful to hair. Using body wash on hair can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause damage to the hair shaft.

Can acne cleanser be used on the scalp?

No, acne cleanser should not be used on the scalp. Acne cleanser is designed for the face and may contain ingredients that can be harmful to the scalp. Using acne cleanser on the scalp can strip the scalp of its natural oils and cause dryness, itching, and flaking.

Summary

In conclusion, while it may be tempting to use face wash as a substitute for shampoo, it is not recommended. Face wash and shampoo have different formulations and purposes, and using one for the other may cause damage to your hair or scalp.

It is important to choose the right hair care products for your hair type and needs. If you are experiencing hair or scalp issues, it is best to consult with a dermatologist or hair care professional for personalized advice.

Remember to read the labels and ingredients of your hair care products to ensure they are suitable for your hair type and needs. With proper care and attention, you can achieve healthy and beautiful hair.