How often should you shampoo your hair and other expert tips for gorgeous healthy hair

Who doesn't want gorgeous, healthy hair? 

While we all may think that shampooing our crowning glory every day will lead to gorgeous healthy hair, a dermatologist from Makati Medical Center says that's not true for all.

According to Corazon Almira T. Mella, MD, "skipping a day or two of shampooing is fine, except for those who constantly sweat from exercise, are out in the sun all day, have an itchy scalp, or use lots of hair styling products."

She reminds that shampoo must be applied to your scalp — not on your strands! — which should be enough to clean it from the "buildup of oil, dirt, and hair products that can lead to dryness and dandruff."

For additional scalp care, Mella recommends exfoliators and hydrating serums containing peptides and glycerin to promote a healthier scalp.

Because in achieving healthy hair, it's important to take care of your scalp. 

Nutrition for health care

We've all heard keratin in the salon, splattered across hair care products. But what is it? It's actually a type of protein. Hair is composed of keratin, and it's also present in human nails, animal feathers, claws, and hooves.

According to Mella, “Lean meat, chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and dairy products are excellent sources of protein.”

Fatty fish meanwhile, like salmon, herring, and sardines are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for hair health.

Vitamins and minerals also play a crucial role.

“Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C, which produces collagen, another protein. The antioxidants in vitamins A, C, and E protect the scalp and hair from sun damage. Zinc that is found in nuts and leafy green veggies prevents hair from falling,” she said.

Manage stress

Although the connection between stress and gray hair remains debatable, experts say stress does affect hair health.

“Intense, chronic stress can put hair on a ‘resting phase’ that skips the growth process," Mella said.

Stress can also lead to trichotillomania (the urge to pull out hair) and conditions like alopecia.

Professional treatments

For persistent issues such as falling hair or an itchy scalp, professional treatments like scalp treatments offered in salons may help.

The treatment's process includes massages, galvanic sealing brushes, scrubs, and a waterfall spa, leaving the scalp and hair revitalized.

As a friendly reminder, Mella said, “Do not dismiss your symptoms and say it is ‘just hair.’ For all you know, what you are experiencing may be rooted in an underlying condition that requires serious attention.”

— Carby Basina/LA, GMA Integrated News