Dr. Corazon Almira T. Mella emphasizes that regardless of your specific hair concerns, achieving healthy tresses boils down to developing good habits. “The state of our hair can reflect our overall health and the extent of damage caused by environmental factors such as sun exposure and pollution,” says Dr. Mella.
Common hair problems like hair fall, dandruff, frizz, and breakage can be managed by adopting dermatologist-approved methods for keeping hair healthy and fabulous.
Healthy Hair Starts with a Healthy Scalp
"A buildup of oil, dirt, and hair products can lead to dryness and dandruff. Applying shampoo to your scalp—not just your strands—is essential to remove impurities. Unless you sweat excessively from exercise, spend all day outdoors, or use multiple styling products, skipping a day or two of shampooing is perfectly fine," shares Dr. Mella.
To give the scalp more TLC, the dermatologist suggests using exfoliators and hydrating serums with scalp-friendly ingredients such as peptides and glycerin.
Nutrition for Hair Health
Hair is composed of keratin, the same type of protein found in human nails and animal feathers, claws, and hooves. “Lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and dairy products are excellent sources of protein,” explains Dr. Mella. "Salmon, herring, and sardines provide Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote hair health."
Dr. Mella also highlights the importance of vitamins and minerals. “Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C help produce collagen, another vital protein for hair health. The antioxidants in vitamins A, C, and E protect the scalp and hair from sun damage, while zinc found in nuts and leafy greens helps prevent hair loss,” she adds.
Managing Stress for Healthier Hair
While the connection between stress and gray hair is still debated, experts agree that stress affects hair health. “Intense, chronic stress can push hair into a 'resting phase,' hindering growth,” explains Dr. Mella. “It can also trigger trichotillomania, the urge to pull out one’s hair, and exacerbate conditions like alopecia, an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss.”
Professional Help for Persistent Hair Concerns
If hair fall or an itchy scalp persists despite best efforts, professional treatments can help. The viral 15-step scalp treatment available at select salons involves a meticulous 90-minute process featuring scalp massages, a galvanic sealing brush, scrubs, shampooing, and a relaxing waterfall spa to promote scalp health.
Ultimately, consulting a board-certified dermatologist is crucial. “Don't dismiss your symptoms as 'just hair problems,'” reminds Dr. Mella. “Your hair concerns may indicate underlying health issues that require professional diagnosis and treatment.”
By adopting these expert-recommended habits and seeking professional care when needed, you can achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful hair all year round.
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