Top Hair Care Routines

It’s always better to examine someone’s hair before speaking of the “top hair care routines”.

That’s because, unsurprisingly, what might be a great idea for one type of hair and scalp might be less than ideal for another.

Even so, some good tips apply to most hair and we’ll discuss those below.

 

Moisturise your scalp

One of the commonest conditions that hair care specialists report is that of dry scalp and associated hair loss.

There’s no universal cause of this. Sometimes it can be to do with the conditions where we live and work. In other instances, it’s probably more to do with genetics than anything else.

However, it’s also often related to poor hair (and scalp) cosmetic practices. So:

• try to avoid constantly washing your hair several times a day (e.g., in showers) using stronger shampoos. If you do need to shower frequently, use very soft/gentle shampoos;
• use moisturising shampoos and conditioners. Some of these are better than others – so seek advice if you’re in doubt.

 

Be gentle with your hair and scalp

This is closely related to the above but a much broader subject.

People often treat their hair and scalp harshly. Bleaching, perms, frequent colour changes, intense drying and setting routines, heated tongs and so on – they’re all potentially tough on the hair and scalp.

Try to minimise these where humanly possible. Treat your hair/scalp gently and it might pay dividends by way of being a hair fall solution.

Another top point here is after washing, avoid going at your hair with your towel like you’re sanding down a block of wood. It’s really bad for the hair.

Try patting it dry instead.

Wash once

There’s an old myth that you need to shampoo your hair twice during a typical wash.

Don’t do it!

Generally speaking, shampooing and conditioning put hair under stress. So, once is more than enough and there is seemingly little, if any, evidence that washing twice helps at all.

Don’t ignore ‘symptoms’

It is true that many people will experience the odd bit of dandruff and flaky/itchy scalp from time to time in their lives.

However, it’s not ‘normal’ nor do you have to just put up with it. True, in many cases these things do come and go spontaneously or with some help from basic over-the-counter products but it’s always worth getting a quick specialist opinion.

Some hair conditions can deteriorate quickly and the sooner you get a professional diagnosis and possibly specialist treatment, the sooner your condition can be brought under control, meaning less likelihood of consequences such as serious hair loss.

Incidentally, this applies also to hair loss. Very minor amounts of hair loss and thinning, often as a consequence of advancing age, is perfectly normal. However, at all ages, it might be possible to do something about it if you get examined quickly enough.

Try not to overbrush/comb

An old but still valuable tip this one.

Combing and brushing hair puts stress on the roots. OK, it’s necessary but be as gentle as possible while doing so.

If you have very long and naturally curly and springy hair, then tangles are likely to be a problem. However, try not to see each one as a challenge to your muscles and instead use special non-tangle hair products to reduce the need to address tangles and cots with raw power.

Wear floppy hats/caps

No, not an attempt to re-create the Hippy days but a practical recognition of the fact that snugs caps and hats with elasticated fittings will put a lot of stress on your hair as you move around. That’s bad news.

So, go for loose-fitting hats and caps. You might get the odd look but if it helps protect your hair, it’ll be worth it!