Hair Care: Practical Tips for Healthier, Stronger Hair

Want better hair without wasting time or money? Start with the basics: scalp health, a simple routine, and smart product choices. Small changes often give the biggest results—less heat, the right shampoo, and a few targeted nutrients can make hair look thicker and less damaged in weeks.

Simple daily routine that works

Wash frequency depends on your scalp: oily scalps can handle daily or every-other-day washing; dry hair usually needs shampoo 2–3 times a week. Use lukewarm water—hot water strips natural oils. Pick a gentle shampoo and a light conditioner you apply mostly to the mid-lengths and ends, not the scalp. If your hair feels heavy from buildup, use a clarifying shampoo once a week, but don’t overdo it; clarifiers remove oils and can dry hair out if used too often.

Limit heat styling. When you must use a blow dryer or flat iron, use a heat protectant spray and set tools to medium heat. Cut down on tight hairstyles that pull at the roots—braids and ponytails can cause breakage and traction alopecia over time.

Trim split ends every 8–12 weeks. Trimming won’t make hair grow faster, but it prevents splits from traveling up the shaft, so hair looks healthier and retains length better.

Scalp care, ingredients, and supplements

Healthy hair starts at the scalp. Massage your scalp for a few minutes when you shampoo—this boosts blood flow and helps remove flakes and product residue. If you experience persistent itching, redness, or visible flaking, check with a clinician before trying strong treatments.

Read labels: avoid shampoos heavy in sulfates if your hair is dry or color-treated; silicones give shine but can build up; alcohol-heavy formulas can dry hair. For thinning hair, topical minoxidil is one over-the-counter option that many people try—talk to a doctor first to be sure it’s right for you.

Supplements can help when a true deficiency exists. Biotin helps a small group of people with genetic deficiency, and low iron or vitamin D can cause shedding—ask your doctor for blood tests before you start pills. Zinc and protein are also important for hair growth, but too much zinc can cause problems. Use supplements cautiously and under medical advice.

Medications can affect hair. For example, some people taking valproate (Depakote) report thinning hair. If you notice sudden or severe hair loss after starting a drug, speak with the prescriber about alternatives or monitoring.

Final practical checks: sleep enough, manage stress, and eat balanced meals with protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. If you see rapid shedding, bald patches, pain, scaly lesions, or a sudden change in texture, see a dermatologist. Targeted care and a few routine changes usually restore appearance and confidence faster than expensive products or fads.