I'm not dealing with dandruff or any itchiness in my hair. I wash my hair with shampoo every three days and use good quality hair oil. I also don't wear caps that could trap any odor. Still, I've noticed that after showering, my hair smells a bit sour for around an hour. I'm puzzled about what's causing it. I don't have any allergies or other symptoms either. What could be going on?

Dr Shubham Chauhan

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 4+ Yrs

Consult Now

You may be experiencing a mild case of scalp odor. This can sometimes happen due to a buildup of sweat, oil, or bacteria on the scalp. To help improve the smell of your hair, you can try using an anti-dandruff shampoo containing ketoconazole or selenium sulfide. Use it twice a week, leaving it on for 5 minutes before rinsing off. Additionally, you can use a medicated shampoo containing zinc pyrithione or coal tar once a week to help control any scalp odor. Make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly after shampooing. If the issue persists, you may want to consult a dermatologist for further evaluation.

Answered 04/07/2025