The health of your scalp and hair plays a big role in how you look and feel! While many prioritize a daily skin care routine, few devote as much attention to their scalp. What a missed opportunity! Scalp health directly supports and maintains healthy hair growth. So here are some helpful tips to get started on a dedicated routine with your dermatology provider’s stamp of approval!

• The right frequency: The correct amount of times per week depends on the individual. If your scalp and hair are oily, you may require more frequent shampoo washes, as often as once a day. On the other hand, if you have chemically treated hair, you may be more on the dry side and require shampooing less frequently. It’s important to note that as we age, the scalp produces less oil, so you may notice that you don’t need to wash your scalp as often as you once did. If you are noticing flaking, you may need to increase the frequency of shampooing, as this can be a sign of dandruff or other flaking scalp conditions.

• The right technique: The way to properly use shampoo is to concentrate on lathering the product directly onto your damp scalp. If you try to shampoo the entire length of your hair, you’ll likely end up with flyaway hair that is coarse in texture and dull in color. After gently massaging the shampoo throughout your scalp with your fingertips, rinse thoroughly.

• The right product: While most brands of shampoo provide similar benefits, it’s important to choose one that will be designed for your hair type and your scalp care needs. If you struggle with a flaking scalp condition (particularly dandruff or psoriasis), consider alternating each hair wash between a couple of anti-dandruff shampoos with the following active ingredients: salicylic acid (such as CLN® shampoo) pyrithione zinc, selenium sulfide, ketoconazole, or coal tar. If you color your hair, use a shampoo specifically formulated for color-treated hair, which will be more gentle than the average shampoo. Damaged or chemically treated hair can benefit from “2-in-1” shampoos that both clean and condition the hair. If you have sensitive skin, look for a cleansing shampoo that is free of parabens, phthalates, dyes, acrylates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, like this one from the Skin Wise skin care line.

• The right frequency: Conditioners improve hair strength, reduce static electricity, and increase lustrous shine. A conditioner should be used after every shampoo wash.

• The right technique: Conditioners should be applied only on the tips of the hair for moisturization. Conditioner should not be applied directly on the scalp or the length of the hair, to prevent limp or oily appearance.

• The right product: Most conditioners, regardless of cost, offer the same benefit. If you have damaged or chemically treated hair, or if you are a swimmer with frequent chlorine exposure, use a deep conditioner to counteract dryness and damage. If you’re looking for a great option for natural skincare (also free of parabens, phthalates, dyes, acrylics, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances), you can never go wrong with the Skin Wise Organics Nourishing Hair Conditioner.

With consistency, these tips for proper shampooing and conditioning can make a big impact on your scalp and hair health! If you are struggling to achieve your scalp and hair goals (itching, flaking, hair thinning or loss), schedule an appointment with one of our dermatology providers for a focused, tailored consultation.