Expert Hair Care Tips from Your Asheville Dermatologist
Healthy, vibrant hair requires more than just good genetics—it needs proper care and attention. At Dermatology of North Asheville, we understand that hair and scalp health is an important part of your overall dermatological wellness. Whether you're dealing with dryness, damage, or simply want to maintain your hair's natural shine, these dermatologist-recommended strategies can help.
Understanding Your Hair's Unique Needs
Just like your skin, your hair has individual requirements that change over time. What worked in your twenties might not be ideal now, and recognizing these shifts is the first step toward healthier hair.
Five Dermatologist-Recommended Hair Care Strategies
1. Match Washing Frequency to Your Scalp Type
Your scalp's oil production should guide your washing schedule. Those with oilier scalps benefit from more frequent shampooing, while drier scalps need less. Here's an important sign many people miss: if you're seeing flakes, you might actually need to wash more often, not less. Insufficient cleansing can lead to buildup that contributes to dandruff and other scalp concerns. Research shows that sebum production decreases with age, which is why you may find yourself needing fewer washes than you did in your younger years.
2. Concentrate Shampoo Where It Matters Most
When shampooing, direct your attention to the scalp rather than the length of your hair. Your scalp is where oil, dead skin cells, and product buildup accumulate. The hair shaft itself gets clean simply from the lather rinsing through it. This targeted approach ensures effective cleansing without stripping your hair of necessary moisture.
3. Apply Conditioner Strategically
After shampooing, apply conditioner primarily to the ends of your hair—the oldest and most damage-prone areas. Skip this step only if you're using a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner formula. Studies indicate that conditioning agents help improve hair manageability and reduce breakage by smoothing the hair cuticle. While conditioning helps repair the appearance of damaged hair, applying too much to fine hair or coating your entire head can leave it looking flat and weighed down.
4. Choose Products for Your Specific Hair Type
The hair care aisle can be overwhelming, but you don't need to spend a fortune for effective products. Price isn't always an indicator of quality—many drugstore brands perform just as well as luxury options. What matters most is selecting formulas designed for your hair's specific needs. If you color your hair, reach for color-safe products. If your hair is fine, look for volumizing formulas. Curly, thick, or chemically treated hair each has specialized products that can make a noticeable difference.
5. Shield Your Hair from Pool Chemicals
Swimming is wonderful exercise, but chlorine and other pool chemicals can be harsh on your hair, causing dryness, discoloration, and brittleness. Research has demonstrated that chlorine exposure can damage the hair cuticle and protein structure. Before diving in, wet your hair thoroughly with clean water and apply conditioner—this creates a protective barrier that limits chemical absorption. After swimming, consider using a deep conditioning treatment to restore lost moisture and repair any chemical damage.
When to Seek Professional Help
While these tips support everyday hair health, persistent issues like excessive shedding, unexplained hair loss, painful scalp conditions, or stubborn dandruff warrant professional evaluation. Board-certified dermatologists like those at Dermatology of North Asheville can diagnose underlying conditions and create personalized treatment plans.
References
Piérard-Franchimont, C., Goffin, V., Henry, F., Uhoda, I., Braham, C., & Piérard, G. E. (2003). Nudging hair shedding by antidandruff shampoos. A comparison of 1% ketoconazole, 1% piroctone olamine and 1% zinc pyrithione formulations. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 25(5), 249-255.
Trüeb, R. M. (2007). Oxidative stress in ageing of hair. International Journal of Trichology, 1(1), 6-14.
Robbins, C. R. (2012). Chemical and Physical Behavior of Human Hair (5th ed.). Springer.
Gavazzoni Dias, M. F. (2015). Hair cosmetics: An overview. International Journal of Trichology, 7(1), 2-15.
Fernández, E., Barba, C., Alonso, C., Martí, M., Parra, J. L., & Coderch, L. (2012). Photodamage determination of human hair. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 106, 101-106.
