Tips for Healthy Hair

The way you wash, style and tend to your hair along with the products you use go a long way when it comes to maintaining healthy hair. Here are some tips from dermatologists to maintain healthy hair.

Choose the right shampoo as using the wrong shampoo and styling products are known to cause hair damage. Always use products that are catered to your hair type (oily, normal, or dry) and may target any problems you have, such as dandruff or dry scalp. Be sure to wash oily hair more frequently. If you have chemically treated hair, it might be on the drier side, meaning you can wash it less frequently. If you see flakes in your hair, you may not be shampooing enough and this can lead to dandruff and other scalp diseases. When washing your hair, concentrate on cleaning primarily the scalp, rather than washing the entire length of hair. Washing only your hair can create flyaway hair that is dull and coarse.

It's recommended to use conditioner after shampooing unless you're using a “2-in-1” shampoo and conditioner based product. Using a conditioner will drastically improve the appearance of damaged or weathered hair by decreasing static electricity, enhancing strength, promoting shine and often protecting the hair from harmful UV rays. When using conditioner, focus on the tips of the hair and not too much on the scalp or length of the hair.

Avoid using very hot or very cold water while washing and be gentle on your hair when it’s wet, as it’s three times more vulnerable to breakage. When you are towel drying your hair, do not rub wet hair excessively. Always use a wide-tooth comb when you are detangling wet hair, but don’t comb too much or brush wet hair. If you struggle with knots and tangles during or after your wash, now is the time to add a detangling product to avoid unnecessary breakage.

.Allow your hair to air dry whenever possible. This decreases heat damage from blowing drying and prevents drying out your hair and scalp. If you do use a blow dryer be sure to part your hair in sections and start off on the lowest heat setting, gradually increasing heat as needed. Try to keep it on the lowest setting if possible and use a heat protectant to avoid any damage from blow drying if you use high heat settings.

Using hair oil and vitamins is great addition to your hair care regimen as it will provide you with the nutrients needed to maintain healthy, strong hair. When using oil, be sure to focus on your ends and scalp. Vitamin A, Vitamin B7, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Omega-3s, Zinc and Biotin are recommended vitamins which aid in healthy hair, skin and immune support. Be sure you are getting your daily dosage for best results.