The Ultimate Guide to Scalp and Hair Care

Hello peachies, welcome back to dear peachie! They say the right lipstick completes a makeup look, but we&#39;re firm believers that your look isn&#39;t truly complete without having your best hair day! When your hair isn&#39;t cooperating, something just feels off about your whole appearance. We touched on this in our previous video, where we discussed the glow-up blueprint pyramid, emphasizing the importance of hair condition, nestled right there in the third tier. It&#39;s clear that hair plays a significant role in elevating our overall appearance. Now, let&#39;s be real, everyone deals with hair concerns at some point: split ends, dryness, dullness, dandruff, oily scalp, damaged hair... you name it! We&#39;re constantly striving for that luscious, bouncy, healthy hair we see in shampoo ads. It&#39;s like a never-ending cycle, isn&#39;t it? You see some TikTok influencer raving about shampoo or hair oil, and bam! You impulsively buy it, only to find it does squat for your hair. Or maybe that 7-step hair care routine feels like way too much effort. But have you ever stopped to consider that maybe you&#39;re not tackling the root cause of your hair issues? Pun intended. Many of us think slathering on hair care products religiously is the key to healthy hair. But guess what? A lot of those issues stem from the condition of our scalp! It&#39;s time we realized that hair care starts from the scalp because a healthy scalp equals healthy hair. In today&#39;s video, we&#39;re diving deep into all things scalp and hair. We&#39;ll address every hair concern through the lens of two major factors: the scalp and the hair itself. So, if you&#39;re ready for a master class on taking your hair game to the next level, grab your pen and paper because this video is packed with valuable insights! First, let’s learn a little bit about why a healthy scalp equals healthy hair? Each hair grows through an individual follicle that emerges from your scalp. These follicles are responsible for producing sebum, also known as oil, through the sebaceous gland. The amount of sebum produced can vary from person to person. It&#39;s crucial that these follicles and the scalp at their point of exit remain clean, clear, healthy, and well-maintained. When follicles are clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, dandruff, or infections, it can significantly impact the quality of hair growth. In fact, if follicles become permanently blocked or obstructed, they may eventually stop producing hair altogether. The scalp itself is composed of cells that continually divide and migrate to the surface, where they eventually shed. Therefore, it&#39;s essential to remove dead skin cells through brushing, washing, and regular exfoliation. This ensures that the scalp remains healthy and free from blockages, allowing for optimal hair growth and overall hair health. Do you know that our scalp is an extension of our facial skin? And it&#39;s actually more delicate and fragile! What&#39;s fascinating is that the scalp undergoes renewal and metabolism at a rate roughly twice as fast as the rest of our skin. Think of the scalp like soil and the hair like crops. Just as the fertility of soil affects the growth of crops, the health of our scalp directly impacts our hair condition. So, in many ways, the scalp&#39;s health determines the overall health of our hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, each person has approximately 100,000 hair follicles on their scalp, regardless of ethnicity. And each follicle contains at least one growing hair. These follicles play a vital role in producing sebum or oil, which not only moisturizes the scalp but also protects it from bacterial and fungal infections. You know, we often cringe at the mention of sebum when it comes to our hair, but here&#39;s the thing: the right amount of sebum production is actually key to a healthy scalp. So, how do we help our scalp produce just the right amount of sebum? Well, it all comes down to maintaining the pH of your scalp between 4.5 to 5.5. This mildly acidic environment is super important for keeping bacteria out and your scalp squeaky clean. But, if things get out of whack, you might end up with greasy, tangled hair from too much acidity or your hair natural protection getting stripped from too little. Ideally, your scalp should be free of these problems — no itchiness, dandruff, redness, irritation, scalp pain, acne, cysts, sunburns, or excessive peeling. And if you spot any bumps, crusts, or redness, along with signs of hair loss, well, that&#39;s your scalp waving a red flag, telling you it needs some TLC. ——————- Just like our skin, our scalps come in different types too. Identifying your scalp type can make it easier to develop an effective strategy for nurturing healthy hair. In this section, we&#39;ll discuss the four different scalp types, and you can identify yours based on their characteristics. Let&#39;s start with the oily scalp type. People with this type have overactive sebaceous glands that secrete excess oil, causing sebum to thickly cover the scalp. Within a short period of time, usually 48 hours after washing, the hair starts to clump together or appear visibly oily, especially at the roots, where the first 2-3 cm of hair looks greasy and sticky. The scalp itself appears obviously oily and dirty, and occasional dandruff flakes may also be present, due to oleophilic malassezia bacteria that thrive in oily environments. In contrast, the dry scalp type presents quite differently. Those with dry scalps have underactive sebaceous glands that don&#39;t produce enough oil, resulting in a high, weakly alkaline pH in their scalp. This leads to a dry, itchy scalp condition and the production of powdery dandruff flakes. Generally, it takes 5 days or more without washing for obvious oil to build up on the hair and scalp. But! this doesn&#39;t mean you should only wash your hair every 5 days or longer. The combination scalp type is aptly named, as the sebaceous glands across the head are divided into two zones. Some areas, generally the top of the head, are rich in sebum production, while other areas, normally the sides and back, have relatively low sebum output, similar to combination skin. Overactive sebaceous glands in certain scalp regions, coupled with poor overall scalp condition, result in too much sebum being absorbed by the scalp itself, preventing it from coating the hair strands. This typically leads to dry, frizzy hair paired with an oily scalp, particularly at the roots. It could be considered the most challenging scalp type to manage. The sensitive scalp type often corresponds with sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Those with sensitive scalps tend to experience frequent itchiness, irritation and reactivity. Common issues include an oily scalp, occasional burning sensations, redness, small bumps or folliculitis, and scalp pain or discomfort. New hair growth is usually thin, soft and lacking strength, leading to easy breakage. The sensitive scalp is highly reactive to seasonal changes, environmental factors, switching shampoos and chemical processes like perming, coloring or bleaching. Now, have you noticed any of these scalp characteristics sounding familiar to yours? Make a mental note before we dive into scalp care. ———— Perhaps you&#39;re still figuring out which type of scalp you have, but it&#39;s essential to keep an eye out for common issues that stem from an unbalanced or unhealthy scalp. These issues typically include oily or dry scalp, dandruff, or hair fall problems. If you&#39;re experiencing any of these concerns, it might be time to give your scalp some extra attention. Signs of an oily scalp are pretty hard to miss. You might find yourself reaching for the shampoo bottle daily because your hair gets greasy in the blink of an eye. And that annoying itchiness? It&#39;s probably due to a buildup of dead skin cells. If you happen to skip a hair wash for a few days, the oils can pile up, resulting in a not-so-pleasant odor and oily stains on your pillowcases. Your hair might end up looking flat as a pancake because, well, all that oil is weighing it down. But what causes the scalp oily? Well, it could be a variety of factors. The condition of the scalp can be influenced by various factors like weather, hormones, and hair washing frequency. The dry air of winter can dehydrate the scalp and increase sebum production as a compensatory measure. Conversely, the humid summer days promote sweating on the scalp, which can push sebum down the hair shaft, making the hair feel greasier than usual despite sufficient oil production. Washing too frequently strips away protective oils, while infrequent washing allows oil, dead skin cells, and other debris to accumulate. Maintaining the right balance is key to a healthy scalp environment. Now, let&#39;s talk about the flip side – dry scalp. This pesky condition arises from a lack of moisture in your skin, leaving your scalp irritated and flaky. So, what triggers the dry scalp? It can be the cold, dry air of winter or those harsh ingredients found in your hair products. This can cause contact dermatitis, a reaction to hair products like shampoo or hairspray, can leave your scalp feeling parched and flaky. Next, dandruff. So many of us tend to relate dandruff and dry scalp together, but they&#39;re actually two distinct conditions. Normally, the skin cells on your scalp and body go through a cycle of multiplying, dying, and shedding off. But in people with dandruff issues, their skin cells speed up the process and shed more quickly than usual. The culprit behind dandruff is often seborrheic dermatitis, a condition that leaves your skin oily, red, and scaly. Those white or yellow scales you see in your hair or on your shoulders? That&#39;s the dandruff. You can actually tell the difference between dry scalp and dandruff by taking a closer look at the flakes. Dandruff flakes are usually bigger and have an oily appearance. Dry scalp is often present with smaller and dry flakes, and you also find dry patches on different parts of your skin too. Whether it&#39;s dryness or dandruff, both can make your scalp itch like crazy. Wrapping up, let&#39;s talk about another common issue: hair loss or hair shedding. It&#39;s something that can really throw us for a loop, and it&#39;s caused by a variety of factors that mess with the hair follicle. If you&#39;ve been noticing more hairs on your pillow or hairbrush lately, you might be worried about hair loss. But here&#39;s the thing – you could actually just be shedding more hairs than usual. Yup, there&#39;s a difference. Normally, our bodies shed between 50 to 100 hairs a day. But when that number shoots up significantly, it&#39;s called excessive hair shedding, or telogen effluvium in medical terms. Excessive hair shedding often happens after experiencing a major stressor, like pregnancy, mental stress, high fever, illness, or weight loss. You might start noticing the extra shedding a few months after the stressful event. But don&#39;t fret – this shedding is usually temporary and stops as your body readjusts, typically within six to nine months. However, if the stressor sticks around, so does the excessive shedding. People constantly under a lot of stress can deal with long-term hair shedding. On the other hand, hair loss happens when something puts the brakes on hair growth, and it&#39;s called anagen effluvium in the medical world. The culprits behind hair loss can range from hereditary factors to immune system reactions, certain medications or treatments, hairstyles that tug on your hair, harsh hair-care products, or even compulsively pulling out your own hair. If you&#39;re dealing with hair loss, your hair won&#39;t grow back until the underlying cause is addressed. So, whether it&#39;s shedding or loss, dealing with changes in your hair can be stressful. But remember, you&#39;re not alone, and there are solutions out there to help you navigate through it. Now that we&#39;ve explored the various types of scalps and common scalp conditions, let&#39;s dive into how to care for it. Remember, scalp issues are the root cause of many hair problems, making scalp health a top priority. By keeping our scalp healthy and clean, we create an optimal environment for hair growth and nourish the skin that shields our skull from trauma and infection. While water can rinse away the dust collected in the hair, the most effective way to keep the scalp clean is through shampooing. But Have you ever stopped to wonder what’s inside your shampoo bottle? Many shampoos have an extensive list of ingredients, so it can be hard to figure out what those scientific-sounding names mean and what the ingredients do. Whatever product you use, one thing’s certain — it contains surfactants. Surfactants are chemical compounds that cleanse or condition your hair. So, they’re an essential ingredient in virtually all hair-washing products, making up about 90% of shampoo ingredients. Their main job is to remove oil and dirt. Now, there&#39;s been some chatter lately about SLS and SLES being harmful to the scalp, but here&#39;s the scoop: it would take decades of heavy use or extremely high concentrations to cause any real harm. Almost all shampoos you see in the market usually contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). And here&#39;s the thing, sulfates aren&#39;t necessarily bad. It all depends on your hair and scalp type. If you tend to have greasy or oily scalp and hair, a shampoo with both SLES and SLS might be your best bet. On the other hand, if your scalp and hair are on the dry side, opt for shampoos with only SLES. And remember, you can always use less shampoo to avoid stripping away too much sebum and drying out your scalp and hair. And yes, you&#39;ve probably noticed that there are tons of sulfate-free shampoos on the market nowadays. While sulfate-free formulas can be great for certain hair types, they might not be cleansing enough for others, leading to buildup of oil, dirt, and product residue that can harm hair follicles and even cause hair loss. While scalp type is a primary consideration when choosing a shampoo, there are other factors to keep in mind, such as the condition of your hair, the porosity level and types of curls. We will come to that in the later parts. So, when it comes to choosing the right shampoo, it&#39;s all about finding what works best for your hair and scalp type. Whether you go sulfate-free or opt for a traditional formula, just remember to listen to your hair&#39;s needs and adjust your routine accordingly. Next, it’s time we look into some general tips for washing and caring for your scalp properly. First things first, thoroughly wet your scalp and hair with water. Take your time with this step, a good rinse can eliminate up to 80% of scalp oils, buildup, and dust. Not only does it cleanse your hair, but it also opens up the hair cuticle, priming it for deep cleansing. Next, when applying hair care products like shampoo or conditioner, avoid direct application to the scalp. Instead, lather the product in your hands with some water until it foams up before applying it to your scalp. This ensures even distribution and prevents product buildup, which can clog hair follicles. Remember, conditioners or hair masks should not be applied directly to your scalp too due to the heavy texture of moisturizing agents. It can lead to buildup if not thoroughly cleaned. Avoid using water temperatures higher than 40 degrees Celsius when washing your hair. Excessively hot water can damage the hair cuticle, leading to dry, brittle hair, and can also cause the scalp to overproduce oil in an attempt to compensate for the dryness. Opting for lukewarm water ensures a gentle cleanse without causing harm to your scalp or hair. When washing your hair, be gentle and use small circular motions to massage your scalp. Slide your fingers into your hair as you do so, avoiding scratching or harsh movements that could cause hair breakage, especially since hair is more prone to breakage when wet. Using both hands and your fingertips, but not your nails! Start at the sides of your temple and work your way up to the crown of your head. Then, move from the base of your ears to the top of your head on both sides, and don&#39;t forget the nape of your neck. Spend about three to five minutes massaging your scalp. This gentle massage helps to soften skin cells, exfoliate, remove debris, and stimulate blood flow, promoting a healthy scalp and hair growth. Once you&#39;ve thoroughly cleaned your scalp, bring the foam down to your hair shaft to ensure they&#39;re cleansed as well. Then, rinse your hair with water thoroughly. Make sure to rinse multiple times, back and forth, up and down. Gently ruffle your hair and lift the strands to ensure every part is thoroughly rinsed. This ensures that any remaining shampoo or residue is washed away, leaving your hair clean and refreshed. The wash and care tips we discussed earlier are applicable for everyone, regardless of scalp type. However, here are some specific tips tailored to different scalp types. For those with an oily scalp, it&#39;s best to wash your hair daily or every other day. Opt for gentle shampoos that don&#39;t strip away too much oil, as excessive oil removal can actually lead to dry hair and increased hair loss. In fact, the amount of hair loss over two days without washing can sometimes exceed that of daily washing. So, all the tik toks about training your hair or hair oiling by washing your hair once a week is actually doing more harm than good for you. if you&#39;re regularly exposed to environments filled with dust, grease, or smoke, it&#39;s still important to wash your hair regularly to keep it clean and healthy. Staying clear of any leave-in conditioners or thick formulas that may weigh the hair down and contribute to a greasy, oily scalp. Instead, opt for lightweight conditioners made for your scalp type. If you experience dandruff, opt for a zinc-based shampoo and wash at the same frequency as you would with an oily scalp. Healing a dry scalp is all about making sure this area receives enough hydration and isn&#39;t overwashed. For those with a dry scalp, opt for a mildly acidic shampoo containing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or gluco-peptides. These ingredients help gently remove buildup, minimize irritation, and protect the scalp&#39;s natural sebum. Since scalp sebum has a protective effect, it&#39;s best not to use super-cleansing scrubs on a daily basis, especially if you&#39;re washing your hair daily. Instead, go for a deep cleanse once a week to maintain scalp health without stripping away too much natural moisture. If you&#39;re experiencing flakes along with dryness, consider using a medicated over-the-counter shampoo containing zinc, salicylic acid, or magnesium. For those with a sensitive scalp, paying attention to the ingredients in hair products is crucial. Many shampoos and hair products contain allergenic preservatives, such as Methylchlorothiazolinone, DMDM, Glycolactone, and Imidazolidinyl Urea, which can trigger sensitivities and reactions. If a shampoo doesn&#39;t list its ingredients, you can use apps or websites to search for the ingredient list, which are often sorted by ingredient ratio. Opt for shampoos specifically formulated for sensitive skin, as they are designed to be gentle and less likely to cause irritation. Additionally, finding the best washing routine that suits your scalp is essential for maintaining scalp health. Combination scalp, as the name suggests, experiences both oiliness and dryness, requiring a balanced approach to care. To achieve this balance, use a gentle shampoo on the scalp and avoid over-drying by adjusting your washing frequency. Spot treat specific areas with a balancing scalp treatment or moisturizing hair serum/oil to address any dryness or oiliness. For those with an oily scalp and dry ends, opt for a light shampoo and hydrating conditioner applied only to the lengths and ends of the hair. Conversely, if dealing with a dry scalp and balanced ends, use a hydrating shampoo on the scalp and a lightweight conditioner on the lengths and ends. Be cautious with clarifying shampoos, as they may be effective for oily scalps but could be too drying for combination scalps. When selecting scalp products, prioritize gentle cleansing formulas. Look for shampoos designed to decongest and soothe the scalp while also removing buildup from the hair strands. ~~~~~ Now that we&#39;ve covered the ins and outs of hair washing steps and the best products for our scalp, let&#39;s discuss some good habits that everyone should practice to maintain optimal scalp health. In addition to proper cleansing, remember that your scalp needs UV protection just like your skin does! Sun exposure can lead to sunburn on the scalp, causing cell damage that may result in hair fall. Moreover, UV radiation can leave your hair looking discolored, dull, and coarse, robbing it of its shine. To protect your scalp and hair from the sun&#39;s harmful rays, consider using hair sunscreen products in mist or powder form, which you can apply directly to your hair and scalp. Another excellent option for protecting your hair from the sun is to look for leave-in conditioners that contain zinc oxide. Zinc oxide offers effective UV protection, shielding your hair from the harmful effects of the sun&#39;s rays. Alternatively, wearing a wide-brimmed hat or carrying an umbrella when out in the sun can also provide effective protection against sun damage. Dry shampoo is a convenient solution for those days when washing your hair feels like a chore. Essentially, it&#39;s a powder mist that absorbs grease from your hair, reviving your roots and giving them a fresh, fluffy appearance. While it&#39;s handy for emergencies, it&#39;s not ideal to leave dry shampoo in your hair overnight. Doing so can potentially clog up your hair follicles, leading to scalp issues. It&#39;s important to practice thorough cleaning to remove any remaining product buildup from your hair. So, while dry shampoo can be a lifesaver in a pinch, it&#39;s best to use it sparingly and wash your hair regularly for optimal scalp and hair health. For hijab-wearing girls, ensuring that your hair and scalp are completely dry before putting on your hijab is crucial. Wet hair or scalp covered by a hijab can create a humid environment, leading to increased sebum production and promoting bacteria growth. This can result in an unpleasant scalp odor if left unchecked. In addition to external factors, such as hair care products, your diet plays a significant role in scalp and hair health. Dieting for weight loss, for instance, can sometimes lead to malnutrition, due to inadequate intake of essential micronutrients, protein, and dietary fiber. This deficiency can increase the likelihood of experiencing hair loss and shedding. Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and lack of sleep have also been linked to an increased risk of hair loss, as supported by research findings. Therefore, maintaining a balanced diet and adopting healthy lifestyle habits are essential for promoting scalp and hair health. —------- In this segment, we&#39;re delving into solutions for both hair loss and hair shedding, building upon our understanding of their differences and causes. To encourage hair regrowth, adopting a structured approach is key. Enter the &quot;Hair Regrowth Pyramid,&quot; comprising three crucial layers aimed at reducing hair loss, regulating the scalp environment, and ultimately promoting hair regrowth. Starting with the foundation of this pyramid is to reduce hair loss. As we all know, hair follicles that are congested with dirt and sebum lead to hair fall. So It&#39;s all about keeping that scalp squeaky clean with the appropriate products. Remember, you can refer back to our previous section to find the perfect match for your scalp type. But if you notice your hair feeling greasy and sticking together after using a particular product, that&#39;s a big red flag waving at you – it might not be the best fit for your scalp! It&#39;s essential to be mindful of habits that could lead to excess hair loss, like wearing your hairstyle or hijab too tightly. The constant pulling and tugging can cause your hairline to recede over time. Instead, opt for hairstyles that allow for a looser fit, minimizing stress on your hair follicles. Your scalp will thank you for it in the long run! Moving up to the second layer of our pyramid, we&#39;re talking about regulating the condition of your scalp. So, beyond just keeping it clean, sometimes you need to give those problem areas some extra TLC. Take, for instance, an oily scalp – it might benefit from a deep cleanse using a scalp scrub to clear out all that accumulated gunk and dirt. Do this once a week. Now, for those dealing with a dry scalp, a nourishing scalp mask is your go-to. This helps replenish moisture and can be a real lifesaver against the drying effects of hard water or harsh hair products. Again, weekly use is ideal to help soothe and hydrate. And don&#39;t forget, targeted scalp oils or serums can also work wonders for those specific trouble spots. In the final phase of promoting hair growth, it&#39;s crucial to first establish a solid foundation by following the practices outlined in the bottom two layers. Once you&#39;ve done that, you can explore various methods to stimulate hair growth. One popular option is using hair serums or tonics, which often contain ingredients like caffeine, biotin, peptides, collagen, keratin, or vitamins known to strengthen hair roots. Keep in mind that there&#39;s no one-size-fits-all solution, so choose a formula that suits your hair and scalp type, as well as any skin sensitivities you may have. Alternatively, you might prefer natural ingredients such as herbal or root extracts, castor oil, rosemary oil, or jojoba oil. Some studies suggest that essential oils like rosemary oil can be as effective as medicated topical products for regrowing hair in certain cases. Additionally, nutrient-rich oils like coconut oil, argan oil, and olive oil can provide essential fatty acids to nourish the scalp. Whichever option you choose, remember to apply these hair tonics, serums, and oils with a gentle massage using fingers or a scalp massager. Massaging the scalp improves blood circulation, which can further support hair growth. For those seeking more effective and faster results, an over-the-counter (OTC) medicated topical treatment containing minoxidil (also known as Rogaine) is often recommended by healthcare providers to promote hair growth and enhance hair thickness and density. When applied to the scalp, minoxidil is believed to widen blood vessels, thereby promoting blood flow to hair follicles. This improved circulation is thought to stimulate hair growth. However, it&#39;s important to consult your pharmacist or doctor before using this product, as pregnant or breastfeeding mothers are advised against its use. Additionally, it&#39;s essential to note that initial hair loss may occur after starting minoxidil treatment, and visible results may only be seen after this shedding phase. Furthermore, discontinuing the use of minoxidil can halt its hair growth-promoting effects, so consistent use is necessary to maintain hair growth. Certain types of light therapy have shown promise in encouraging hair growth and reducing hair thinning. Utilizing low-level light therapy (LLLT) devices at home has been found to stimulate scalp cells, improve blood supply, reduce inflammation, and promote hair regeneration. Studies have indicated that light therapy can significantly increase hair density after several weeks of consistent use. If you have the budget and are open to trying something new, it may be worth giving light therapy a try. Just remember, consistency is key to achieving the best results. Finally, consider incorporating oral supplements into your routine to enhance your overall well-being and support scalp health from the inside out. Multivitamins, biotin, collagen, and zinc are among the supplements that have been associated with promoting healthy hair growth and scalp condition. Adding these supplements to your daily regimen may provide additional support in your journey towards healthier hair and scalp. Now, coming to Part 2. Let&#39;s shift our focus to hair. You&#39;ve probably come across countless hair hacks promising smooth, shiny locks, but the truth is, none of them will work unless you truly understand your hair. In this section, we&#39;ve prepared a short quiz to help you assess the health status of your hair, determine its porosity, and identify your specific curl type. Armed with this knowledge, caring for your hair becomes less of a guessing game and more like a strategic approach to achieving your hair goals. Let&#39;s dive into the quiz! Before we proceed with the quiz, it&#39;s important to note that each question is advised to be tested at a specific time frame. You can refer to the bottom of the slide to know when you should carry out the test. Remember to note down the number of As and Bs you get for each question. Now, for question number 1: Take a strand of hair from the outer layer and another from the inner region. Do you notice a difference in color between these two strands? Mark A for yes and B for no. Question 2: When the weather gets wet or humid, does your hair tend to become frizzy, messy, or flat? A for yes, B for no. Question 3: Take a strand of hair and wrap it around your fingers. Do you observe a shine to your hair under the light? Question 4: Divide your hair into two halves and run your fingers from the midsection of your head towards the end. Are there any tangles that stop your fingers from smoothing along? Question 5: Comb through your hair a few times. Do you notice any breakage or white dots along the hair shaft when combing? Question 6: Wet your hair thoroughly and try to make a knot. Does it loosen out when you release it? So, based on the number of A’s you tallied, you can determine the current status of your hair. If you didn&#39;t get any A&#39;s, congrats! Your hair is in perfect condition – smooth, shiny, and free from discoloration. If you got only 1 A, your hair might be mildly damaged. You might notice some frizz, split ends, and discoloration between the inner and outer hair. For 2 to 3 A&#39;s, your hair suffers from medium damage. It may feel coarse to the touch, appear dull with a lack of shine, and tangle easily. With more than 3 A&#39;s, your hair might be severely damaged. It could be dry, frizzy, and prone to split ends and tangling. Additionally, your hair may break easily when you comb through it. Now, let&#39;s delve into the next test: the hair porosity test. Porosity measures how well your hair can absorb and retain moisture, indicating how easily moisture can penetrate the hair shaft. While largely determined by genetics, external factors like heat and chemical treatments can also influence hair porosity. To determine your hair porosity at home, there are a few quick tests you can try. One popular method is the Float Test. Simply gather some clean strands of hair from your brush or comb. Cut them to about 3 inches and drop them into a glass of water. After a few minutes, observe the results. If the hair strands float on the top, you likely have low porosity hair; if they sink all the way to the bottom, your hair is likely high porosity. And if they remain in the middle, your hair is probably of medium porosity. Keep in mind that while these tests provide helpful insights, they may not yield precise results. Low porosity hair is characterized by its resistance to moisture due to closed hair cuticles, making it challenging to penetrate with water or products. However, once moisture is absorbed, it tends to stay locked in, reducing the risk of dryness. Medium porosity hair, on the other hand, has a more relaxed cuticle layer, facilitating a balanced flow of moisture in and out. This type of hair easily absorbs and retains moisture, typically maintaining good health with minimal damage from environmental factors. High porosity hair features gaps and openings in the cuticle layer, allowing moisture to enter and exit rapidly. This can result in frizz and tangling in humid conditions, as well as excessive dryness in arid climates. Additionally, high porosity hair struggles to retain moisture and is prone to damage from UV exposure, heat styling, and chemical treatments. Coming to the last test, we identify what your curly hair type is! In the realm of hair classification, scientists have explored categorizing curliness by assessing various parameters of the hair fiber. This endeavour has resulted in a system that assigns a numerical value to hair types ranging from 1 to 4. In this system, higher numbers denote curlier hair with tighter coils, while lower numbers indicate straighter hair with looser curls. To find out, you may want to sacrifice a few hair strands by plucking them out off your head while your hair is still wet. Lay them flat against a white surface and watch them take their natural shape while they air-dry. You may identify with a few different patterns, as all hair doesn&#39;t necessarily contain the same type of curl consistently throughout. Hair curl types are categorized using a system that combines a number and a letter. The number indicates the level of curliness, ranging from 1 to 4, with higher numbers representing tighter curls. The letter indicates the overall pattern or texture of the hair within each curl category. For example, Type 2 hair has some waves and is labeled as A, B, or C based on the texture of those waves. Hair Type 2A has loose waves, 2B has more defined waves, and 2C has waves that verge on being curly. Similarly, Type 3 hair has loose curls (as 3A), medium curls (as 3B), or tight curls (as 3C), and Type 4 hair has tightly coiled patterns ranging from 4A to 4C, with 4A being looser coils and 4C being tightly coiled or kinky. This system helps individuals identify their unique hair texture and choose appropriate styling and care methods. So, by conducting these 3 tests, you can identify the health status, porosity, and curl type of your hair. This information will guide you in choosing the right steps and products to effectively care for your hair. Now take down your results and we will proceed to the next section. Healthy hair is measured by five dimensions: shine, softness, smoothness, strength, and bounciness. To understand how to achieve these qualities, it&#39;s important to know the structure of the hair strand, which corresponds to these different dimensions and hair porosity. The hair shaft consists of three layers: the cuticle, the cortex, and the medulla. The cuticle, also known as the capillary cortex, is the outermost layer. When the cuticle is moderately damaged, hair looks less smooth and shiny (impacting shine and smoothness), becoming frizzy and rough to the touch (affecting softness). The second layer, the cortex, determines the shape, thickness, and elasticity of the hair. Damage to the cortex affects the overall health of the hair, impacting its elasticity and resilience (which corresponds to the other two dimensions, bounciness and strength). First of all, we need to address bad habits that negatively impact the five dimensions of healthy hair. As you go through the following habits, see if any of them sound familiar—they might be why your hair isn&#39;t looking its best. Number 1: Not combing your hair before washing it. Ensure your hair is tangle-free before washing. This helps your shampoo foam up better and reduces friction between your hair strands, which can decrease hair falling and breakage. Number 2: Towel-drying your hair by rubbing it vigorously. When your hair is wet, the cuticles are open, making the hair more susceptible to damage from friction. Rubbing your hair with a towel can harm the cuticles, causing your hair to lose its shine and become coarse to the touch. The correct way should be either patting your hair dry, or gently wrap the towel around your hair and squeeze it to absorb the water. Number 3: Holding your blow dryer too close to your scalp is another common mistake. The high heat can accelerate moisture loss, causing damage to the ends of your hair, increasing porosity, and leading to dry, split ends. The correct distance from your scalp should be 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) away. Number 4: Not using heat protectant on your hair can cause it to become dry, frizzy, and discolored. The high heat from styling tools damages the cuticles and the natural moisture barrier of your hair, leading to significant deterioration in hair quality. Number 5: Not drying your hair thoroughly before going to sleep is also problematic. As mentioned, hair cuticles are more open when wet, making them more susceptible to breakage and loss of shine due to friction from tossing and turning on your pillow. Besides that, the moist environment of wet hair creates a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, which is harmful to your hair&#39;s health.So, remember to dry your hair completely before you go to get your beauty sleep! Lastly, the same principle applies when you go out with wet hair. Wet hair and scalp receive double the UV exposure compared to your face. Harsh sunlight can thin the cuticle, making your hair more prone to breakage and discoloration. So, make sure your hair is completely dry before heading out! To properly care for your hair, it&#39;s essential to have a solid hair care routine. This ensures that every strand of your hair is well taken care of. Now, let’s walk through the correct step-by-step hair care routine, starting from washing and conditioning to applying hair oil, drying, and styling. First, always begin your washing routine by combing through your hair to detangle all the knots. Remember to comb from the bottom up. This makes the washing process smoother and more effective. Wet your hair thoroughly for a few minutes. Next, lather the shampoo in your hands until it foams up, then massage it into your scalp. You can refer to the hair washing techniques we discussed earlier for more details. Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with water. Once you&#39;ve rinsed out the shampoo, don&#39;t go applying conditioner or mask right after when your hair is still dripping wet. That&#39;ll just rinse it right out before it can penetrate! Instead, gently press out the excess water - no vigorous rubbing or twisting since that&#39;ll just rough up your cuticles even more when they&#39;re open like that. You can lightly towel press too if that&#39;s easier. Now, grab your hair conditioner or mask, and use an appropriate amount for your hair length and volume. For short hair, about one pump is enough; for mid-length hair, use one and a half pumps; and for long hair, use two pumps. Rub the conditioner in your palms to distribute it evenly. Apply it to the ends of your hair first, since they are drier and more prone to damage, then work your way up to the mid-shaft, avoiding the scalp. Press the conditioner along your hair to ensure better absorption. Wait about five minutes for the conditioner to work its magic, then rinse it out thoroughly with running water. Next, dry your hair with a towel. As mentioned earlier, avoid rubbing your hair vigorously with the towel as it can easily cause damage. Instead, pat your hair dry, or gently wrap the towel around your hair and squeeze it to absorb the water. Once your hair is towel-dried using the proper technique, you&#39;re ready for oils and serums. But did you know the application technique and timing are everything when it comes to getting the most out of these? The technique depends on the health status of your hair. If your hair is severely damaged—dry, frizzy, and lifeless from over-bleaching or processing—apply hair serum twice in your routine. First, before drying your hair to reduce heat damage. This locks in moisture by smoothing the cuticle layer, so the dryer won&#39;t strip away the remaining moisture. The second application is after blow-drying to smooth out frizz and add shine. For medium-damaged hair, which tangles easily, lacks shine, and breaks easily, also apply hair oil twice. First, when your hair is 50% dry, and second, when it’s 80-90% dry. The second application is optional, depending on how frizzy your hair is. For healthy or mildly damaged hair, apply hair oil once when your hair is 80-90% dry. So there’s no one-size-fits-all approach! It all depends on your hair condition. As for the application method itself, rub the oil between your palms first, and then distribute it evenly over your palms and fingers. Then use your hands like a comb, smoothing and raking the oil through from roots to ends. This ensures every strand is coated without that greasy buildup you get from just plopping oil on top. Proper timing and technique can make all the difference - ingredients only make up about 30% of the results you see! The other 70% is making sure you&#39;re setting your hair up for maximum absorption and sealing in those benefits. A little extra care goes a long way! It&#39;s important to know the correct way to dry your hair when using a hairdryer. Drying your hair improperly can result in stripping excess moisture, tangling and hair fall. You may blow-dry your hair in 2 ways. The first method is blow drying from the top of your head. Ensure the airflow is directed towards the ends of your hair. This way, you dry the scalp and roots first for quicker overall drying. If you start from the ends, water will keep dripping down from the top, making the process longer. Then, gradually work your way down to the ends until your hair is 80 to 90 percent dry. You can also use hair oil or serum during the blow-drying process, based on the timing suggested in the earlier section. Continue to blow dry in the same manner until your hair is completely dry. The second method is blow-drying with your hair forward.This method is suitable for beauties with thin, flat hair as it helps your hair look more voluminous and fluffy. Start by flipping your hair forward and blow-drying the back of your head. Use warmer air to remove excess water from your scalp. Move to the next section once the current area feels dry. Switch to cooler air, and flip your hair to each side to blow dry the scalp. Blow dry in the opposite direction of your hair&#39;s natural growth to make your roots stand taller and appear poofier. Continue dividing and flipping your hair to the opposite side to dry each section thoroughly. You can apply another coat of hair oil to finish off. Finally, comb through your hair, and you&#39;re good to go! Now for all my curly-haired beauties out there, we&#39;ve got some extra tips when it comes to drying those luscious ringlets. Those of you with looser waves or curls in the type 3 range as well as my 4C curl queens with tight coils and zig-zags - the first rule is the same. Aggressive towel drying is a major no-no as it will just create a frizzy mess and disrupt your gorgeous curl pattern. Instead, gently blot or press the towel to remove excess moisture without rubbing or twisting your strands. For beauties with type 3 curls, you have a couple drying options. Either let your hair air dry to allow those pretty curls to form naturally, or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer if you&#39;re in a hurry. Before drying, apply a styler like a mousse or curl cream to help encourage and set the curl pattern. Gently cup and scrunch sections as you diffuse to enhance definition, avoiding too much friction from the diffuser itself. And for those tiny, delicate type 4 coils, air drying really is ideal to allow each one to form without disturbance. If you must blow dry, use a diffuser on the coolest setting possible, constantly moving it in a cupping motion around your head. Applying a rich leave-in conditioner or curl cream beforehand is key to locking in moisture and maintaining definition. Take your time and avoid excessive manipulation - those tight coils are fragile! Along with using the right techniques for your hair type, there are some other simple habits you can adopt to really take your hair health to the next level. First up, UV protection. We have mentioned about it in the previous section, so we are pretty sure you know the importance of doing so! Second, no matter the condition of your hair, using a heat protectant is a must before applying any hot styling tools. Heat protectants act as a barrier between your hair and the heat, protecting it from burning, drying out, and becoming dull. You can use any heat protectant, whether it&#39;s a hair oil, mist, or leave-in conditioner, to prevent high temperatures from stripping moisture from your hair. Next, let&#39;s talk about protecting your hair overnight. If you toss and turn a lot, all that friction against a cotton pillowcase can cause major breakage and frizz by morning. Do your hair a favor and swap out for a satin or silk pillowcase or bonnet. This sleek material allows your hair to glide smoothly without snagging or pulling. It also helps hair retain moisture instead of getting soaked up by cotton. A simple switch that makes a big difference! Speaking of less friction and protecting your strands, have you tried embracing some heatless curl styling methods? Putting down those hot tools even a couple days a week gives your hair a well-deserved break from high heat damage. Some cute options are using rollers, using curl formers or rods for ringlets, braiding for texture, or my personal favorite - the viral sock or heatless curler set on tiktok for that natural wavy look. You can look for tutorials online to achieve it! Last but not least, get regular hair trims. Regular hair trims may seem like an unnecessary expense or inconvenience, but they are essential for maintaining healthy and beautiful hair. Trimming your hair helps it grow longer and healthier. By cutting off split ends and damaged hair, you stimulate new growth and prevent breakage. Hair experts suggest scheduling a trim every 8 to 12 weeks, though the intervals may vary depending on your hair&#39;s health and length. Shorter hair may need a haircut every three to four weeks. Damaged hair should be trimmed more frequently, about every six weeks. If a monthly haircut isn’t in your budget or you’re aiming to keep your hair long, enhance your at-home hair care routine with products that target damaged strands. Ultimately, find a balance that works for you. The choices are just limitless when it comes to exploring different ways to care for your hair! You can mix and match to find the routine that best suits your lifestyle, preferences, and unique hair type. One of the most important things to get right in your hair care routine is using products that are properly matched to your hair&#39;s porosity level. Getting this wrong can lead to moisture issues, damage, and disappointing results. If you have low porosity hair with cuticles that resist moisture, look for lightweight, water-based products that won&#39;t weigh down or coat the hair. Key ingredients to look for include humectants like glycerin, aloe vera, and honey that help attract and retain hydration. Lightweight oils like argan and grapeseed can also draw moisture into those tight cuticles. Use clarifying shampoos or low-poo cleanser occasionally to prevent buildup on low porosity strands. A &quot;low poo&quot; cleanser is a type of shampoo that is formulated with fewer harsh chemicals and sulfates compared to traditional shampoos. The term &quot;low poo&quot; stands for &quot;low shampoo,&quot; indicating that it is a gentler alternative designed to cleanse the hair without stripping it of its natural oils. And stick to lightweight, protein-free rinse-out conditioners as heavy creams can&#39;t penetrate low porosity hair. As product build-up happens more likely in low porosity hair, when deep conditioning, apply heat like a steamer or hood dryer - this helps briefly raise and open the cuticle so the moisturizing ingredients can penetrate better. For those with medium porosity levels, gentle, sulfate-free shampoos will cleanse without stripping moisture. Incorporate periodic use of richer, deep conditioning treatments every week or two to replenish hydration. Hydrating leave-in milks and creams are great for day-to-day moisture maintenance. A wide range of balanced, moisturizing shampoos and conditioners are great options. When it comes to key ingredients, look for a mix of humectants like honey, shea butter, and oils such as coconut, jojoba, or avocado oil to help attract and seal in hydration. Now for high porosity hair where moisture easily escapes those raised, porous cuticles, look for anti-humectant stylers like gels that help control frizz. Rich, creamy, emollient-rich conditioners are best to seal in hydration. Leave-in conditioners can also help maintain moisture throughout the day. When it comes to key ingredients for high porosity hair, products with proteins like hydrolyzed wheat, silk or keratin can help strengthen and rebuild damaged areas. Heavier oils and butters (like castor oil, olive oil or shea butter) create an occlusive layer to smooth and seal the cuticle, reducing frizz and moisture loss. Be sure to regularly use deep conditioning treatments packed with these reconstructing proteins to repair porous strands from the inside out. And apply hair oils, butters or heavy creams as the last step to seal the deal. No matter if you&#39;re low, medium or high porosity, the key is using products designed to help moisture properly absorb into the hair strand or create a protective sealant layer to prevent dehydration. Match your routine to your porosity needs for stronger, smoother, longer-lasting hydration. In the end, it&#39;s crucial to identify the root cause behind your scalp and hair issues. Once you understand your scalp type and its unique needs, you can tackle the problems with the right products and techniques tailored specifically for you. Establishing a solid cleansing routine is paramount to ensure your scalp stays clean and healthy. Don&#39;t neglect basic hair care fundamentals like protection from environmental stressors too. While results may not be immediate, consistency is key. Stay dedicated to your hair regimen, and your luscious locks will thank you in time. Share us your best hair tip in the comments! Thank you so much for watching! We will see you in the next video. Goodbye!

Hello peachies, welcome back to dear peachie! They say the right lipstick completes 
a makeup look, but we&amp;#39;re firm believers   that your look isn&amp;#39;t truly complete 
without having your best hair day!   When your hair isn&amp;#39;t cooperating, something 
just feels off about your whole appearance. We touched on this in our previous video, where 
we discussed the glow-up blueprint pyramid,   emphasizing the importance of hair condition, 
nestled right there in the third tier. It&amp;#39;s   clear that hair plays a significant role 
in elevating our overall appearance. Now, let&amp;#39;s be real, everyone deals 
with hair concerns at some point:   split ends, dryness, dullness, dandruff, 
oily scalp, damaged hair... you name it! We&amp;#39;re constantly striving for that luscious, 
bouncy, healthy hair we see in shampoo ads.   It&amp;#39;s like a never-ending cycle, isn&amp;#39;t it? You see 
some TikTok influencer raving about shampoo or   hair oil, and bam! You impulsively buy 
it, only to find it does squat for your   hair. Or maybe that 7-step hair care 
routine feels like way too much effort. But have you ever stopped to consider that maybe 
you&amp;#39;re not tackling the root cause of your hair   issues? Pun intended. Many of us think slathering 
on hair care products religiously is the key   to healthy hair. But guess what? A lot of those 
issues stem from the condition of our scalp! It&amp;#39;s   time we realized that hair care starts from the 
scalp because a healthy scalp equals healthy hair. In today&amp;#39;s video, we&amp;#39;re diving deep into 
all things scalp and hair. We&amp;#39;ll address   every hair concern through the lens of two 
major factors: the scalp and the hair itself. So, if you&amp;#39;re ready for a master class on 
taking your hair game to the next level,   grab your pen and paper because this 
video is packed with valuable insights! First, let’s learn a little bit about 
why a healthy scalp equals healthy hair? Each hair grows through an individual 
follicle that emerges from your scalp.   These follicles are responsible for 
producing sebum, also known as oil,   through the sebaceous gland. The amount of sebum 
produced can vary from person to person. It&amp;#39;s   crucial that these follicles and the scalp 
at their point of exit remain clean, clear,   healthy, and well-maintained. When follicles are 
clogged with sebum, dead skin cells, dandruff,   or infections, it can significantly impact the 
quality of hair growth. In fact, if follicles   become permanently blocked or obstructed, they 
may eventually stop producing hair altogether. The scalp itself is composed of cells that 
continually divide and migrate to the surface,   where they eventually shed. Therefore, it&amp;#39;s 
essential to remove dead skin cells through   brushing, washing, and regular exfoliation. This 
ensures that the scalp remains healthy and free   from blockages, allowing for optimal 
hair growth and overall hair health. Do you know that our scalp is an extension 
of our facial skin? And it&amp;#39;s actually more   delicate and fragile! What&amp;#39;s fascinating 
is that the scalp undergoes renewal and   metabolism at a rate roughly twice 
as fast as the rest of our skin. Think of the scalp like soil and the hair 
like crops. Just as the fertility of soil   affects the growth of crops, the health of our 
scalp directly impacts our hair condition. So,   in many ways, the scalp&amp;#39;s health 
determines the overall health of our hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 
each person has approximately 100,000 hair   follicles on their scalp, regardless of 
ethnicity. And each follicle contains   at least one growing hair. These follicles 
play a vital role in producing sebum or oil,   which not only moisturizes the scalp but also 
protects it from bacterial and fungal infections. You know, we often cringe at the mention of sebum 
when it comes to our hair, but here&amp;#39;s the thing:   the right amount of sebum production 
is actually key to a healthy scalp. So, how do we help our scalp produce 
just the right amount of sebum? Well,   it all comes down to maintaining the pH of 
your scalp between 4.5 to 5.5. This mildly   acidic environment is super important for keeping 
bacteria out and your scalp squeaky clean. But,   if things get out of whack, you might end up 
with greasy, tangled hair from too much acidity   or your hair natural protection 
getting stripped from too little. Ideally, your scalp should be free of these 
problems — no itchiness, dandruff, redness,   irritation, scalp pain, acne, cysts, sunburns, 
or excessive peeling. And if you spot any bumps,   crusts, or redness, along with signs of hair loss,   well, that&amp;#39;s your scalp waving a red 
flag, telling you it needs some TLC. ——————-  Just like our skin, our scalps come in different 
types too. Identifying your scalp type can make   it easier to develop an effective strategy for 
nurturing healthy hair. In this section, we&amp;#39;ll   discuss the four different scalp types, and you 
can identify yours based on their characteristics. Let&amp;#39;s start with the oily scalp type. People 
with this type have overactive sebaceous glands   that secrete excess oil, causing sebum to thickly 
cover the scalp. Within a short period of time,   usually 48 hours after washing, the hair starts 
to clump together or appear visibly oily,   especially at the roots, where the first 2-3 
cm of hair looks greasy and sticky. The scalp   itself appears obviously oily and dirty, and 
occasional dandruff flakes may also be present,   due to oleophilic malassezia bacteria 
that thrive in oily environments. In contrast, the dry scalp type presents 
quite differently. Those with dry scalps have   underactive sebaceous glands that don&amp;#39;t produce 
enough oil, resulting in a high, weakly alkaline   pH in their scalp. This leads to a dry, itchy 
scalp condition and the production of powdery   dandruff flakes. Generally, it takes 5 days or 
more without washing for obvious oil to build up   on the hair and scalp. But! this doesn&amp;#39;t mean you 
should only wash your hair every 5 days or longer. The combination scalp type is aptly named, 
as the sebaceous glands across the head are   divided into two zones. Some areas, generally the 
top of the head, are rich in sebum production,   while other areas, normally the sides and back, 
have relatively low sebum output, similar to   combination skin. Overactive sebaceous glands in 
certain scalp regions, coupled with poor overall   scalp condition, result in too much sebum being 
absorbed by the scalp itself, preventing it from   coating the hair strands. This typically leads 
to dry, frizzy hair paired with an oily scalp,   particularly at the roots. It could be considered 
the most challenging scalp type to manage. The sensitive scalp type often corresponds with 
sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Those with   sensitive scalps tend to experience frequent 
itchiness, irritation and reactivity. Common   issues include an oily scalp, occasional burning 
sensations, redness, small bumps or folliculitis,   and scalp pain or discomfort. New hair growth 
is usually thin, soft and lacking strength,   leading to easy breakage. The sensitive scalp is 
highly reactive to seasonal changes, environmental   factors, switching shampoos and chemical 
processes like perming, coloring or bleaching. Now, have you noticed any of these scalp 
characteristics sounding familiar to yours?   Make a mental note before we dive into scalp care. ———— Perhaps you&amp;#39;re still figuring out which type of 
scalp you have, but it&amp;#39;s essential to keep an   eye out for common issues that stem from an 
unbalanced or unhealthy scalp. These issues   typically include oily or dry scalp, dandruff, 
or hair fall problems. If you&amp;#39;re experiencing   any of these concerns, it might be time 
to give your scalp some extra attention. Signs of an oily scalp are pretty hard to 
miss. You might find yourself reaching for   the shampoo bottle daily because your hair 
gets greasy in the blink of an eye. And   that annoying itchiness? It&amp;#39;s probably 
due to a buildup of dead skin cells. If you happen to skip a hair wash 
for a few days, the oils can pile up,   resulting in a not-so-pleasant odor and oily 
stains on your pillowcases. Your hair might   end up looking flat as a pancake because, 
well, all that oil is weighing it down. But what causes the scalp oily? Well, 
it could be a variety of factors. The condition of the scalp can be influenced 
by various factors like weather, hormones,   and hair washing frequency. 
The dry air of winter can   dehydrate the scalp and increase sebum 
production as a compensatory measure. Conversely, the humid summer days 
promote sweating on the scalp,   which can push sebum down the hair shaft, 
making the hair feel greasier than usual   despite sufficient oil production. Washing 
too frequently strips away protective oils,   while infrequent washing allows oil, 
dead skin cells, and other debris to   accumulate. Maintaining the right balance 
is key to a healthy scalp environment. Now, let&amp;#39;s talk about the flip side – 
dry scalp. This pesky condition arises   from a lack of moisture in your skin, 
leaving your scalp irritated and flaky. So, what triggers the dry scalp? It can be 
the cold, dry air of winter or those harsh   ingredients found in your hair products. This 
can cause contact dermatitis, a reaction to   hair products like shampoo or hairspray, can 
leave your scalp feeling parched and flaky. Next, dandruff. So many of us tend to 
relate dandruff and dry scalp together,   but they&amp;#39;re actually two distinct conditions. Normally, the skin cells on your scalp and 
body go through a cycle of multiplying,   dying, and shedding off. But 
in people with dandruff issues,   their skin cells speed up the process 
and shed more quickly than usual. The culprit behind dandruff is 
often seborrheic dermatitis,   a condition that leaves your skin 
oily, red, and scaly. Those white   or yellow scales you see in your hair or 
on your shoulders? That&amp;#39;s the dandruff. You can actually tell the difference 
between dry scalp and dandruff by taking   a closer look at the flakes. Dandruff 
flakes are usually bigger and have an   oily appearance. Dry scalp is often 
present with smaller and dry flakes,   and you also find dry patches on 
different parts of your skin too. Whether it&amp;#39;s dryness or dandruff, both 
can make your scalp itch like crazy. Wrapping up, let&amp;#39;s talk 
about another common issue:   hair loss or hair shedding. It&amp;#39;s something 
that can really throw us for a loop,   and it&amp;#39;s caused by a variety of factors 
that mess with the hair follicle. If you&amp;#39;ve been noticing more hairs 
on your pillow or hairbrush lately,   you might be worried about hair 
loss. But here&amp;#39;s the thing – you   could actually just be shedding more hairs 
than usual. Yup, there&amp;#39;s a difference. Normally, our bodies shed between 50 to 100 
hairs a day. But when that number shoots   up significantly, it&amp;#39;s called excessive hair 
shedding, or telogen effluvium in medical terms. Excessive hair shedding often happens 
after experiencing a major stressor,   like pregnancy, mental stress, high fever, 
illness, or weight loss. You might start   noticing the extra shedding a few months after the 
stressful event. But don&amp;#39;t fret – this shedding   is usually temporary and stops as your body 
readjusts, typically within six to nine months. However, if the stressor sticks around, 
so does the excessive shedding. People   constantly under a lot of stress can 
deal with long-term hair shedding. On the other hand, hair loss happens 
when something puts the brakes on hair   growth, and it&amp;#39;s called anagen 
effluvium in the medical world. The culprits behind hair loss can range from 
hereditary factors to immune system reactions,   certain medications or treatments, 
hairstyles that tug on your hair,   harsh hair-care products, or even 
compulsively pulling out your own hair. If you&amp;#39;re dealing with hair loss, your hair won&amp;#39;t 
grow back until the underlying cause is addressed. So, whether it&amp;#39;s shedding or loss,   dealing with changes in your hair 
can be stressful. But remember,   you&amp;#39;re not alone, and there are solutions 
out there to help you navigate through it. Now that we&amp;#39;ve explored the various types 
of scalps and common scalp conditions, let&amp;#39;s   dive into how to care for it. Remember, scalp 
issues are the root cause of many hair problems,   making scalp health a top priority. By keeping 
our scalp healthy and clean, we create an optimal   environment for hair growth and nourish the skin 
that shields our skull from trauma and infection. While water can rinse away the 
dust collected in the hair,   the most effective way to keep the 
scalp clean is through shampooing. But Have you ever stopped to wonder what’s 
inside your shampoo bottle? Many shampoos   have an extensive list of ingredients, so 
it can be hard to figure out what those   scientific-sounding names mean and what the 
ingredients do. Whatever product you use,   one thing’s certain — it contains surfactants. 
Surfactants are chemical compounds that cleanse   or condition your hair. So, they’re an essential 
ingredient in virtually all hair-washing products,   making up about 90% of shampoo ingredients. 
Their main job is to remove oil and dirt. Now, there&amp;#39;s been some chatter lately about 
SLS and SLES being harmful to the scalp,   but here&amp;#39;s the scoop: it would take 
decades of heavy use or extremely   high concentrations to cause any real harm. 
Almost all shampoos you see in the market   usually contain Sodium Laureth Sulfate 
(SLES) and Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). And here&amp;#39;s the thing, sulfates aren&amp;#39;t 
necessarily bad. It all depends on your   hair and scalp type. If you tend to 
have greasy or oily scalp and hair,   a shampoo with both SLES and SLS might 
be your best bet. On the other hand,   if your scalp and hair are on the dry side, opt 
for shampoos with only SLES. And remember, you can   always use less shampoo to avoid stripping away 
too much sebum and drying out your scalp and hair. And yes, you&amp;#39;ve probably noticed that 
there are tons of sulfate-free shampoos   on the market nowadays. While sulfate-free 
formulas can be great for certain hair types,   they might not be cleansing enough 
for others, leading to buildup of oil,   dirt, and product residue that can harm 
hair follicles and even cause hair loss. While scalp type is a primary 
consideration when choosing a shampoo,   there are other factors to keep in mind, 
such as the condition of your hair,   the porosity level and types of curls. 
We will come to that in the later parts. So, when it comes to choosing the right 
shampoo, it&amp;#39;s all about finding what works   best for your hair and scalp type. Whether you 
go sulfate-free or opt for a traditional formula,   just remember to listen to your hair&amp;#39;s 
needs and adjust your routine accordingly. Next, it’s time we look into some general tips 
for washing and caring for your scalp properly. First things first, thoroughly wet your scalp and 
hair with water. Take your time with this step,   a good rinse can eliminate up to 80% of 
scalp oils, buildup, and dust. Not only   does it cleanse your hair, but it also opens up 
the hair cuticle, priming it for deep cleansing. Next, when applying hair care 
products like shampoo or conditioner,   avoid direct application to the scalp. 
Instead, lather the product in your hands   with some water until it foams up before 
applying it to your scalp. This ensures   even distribution and prevents product 
buildup, which can clog hair follicles. Remember, conditioners or hair masks should 
not be applied directly to your scalp too due   to the heavy texture of moisturizing agents. It 
can lead to buildup if not thoroughly cleaned. Avoid using water temperatures higher than 
40 degrees Celsius when washing your hair.   Excessively hot water can damage the hair 
cuticle, leading to dry, brittle hair,   and can also cause the scalp to overproduce oil in 
an attempt to compensate for the dryness. Opting   for lukewarm water ensures a gentle cleanse 
without causing harm to your scalp or hair. When washing your hair, be gentle and use small 
circular motions to massage your scalp. Slide   your fingers into your hair as you do so, 
avoiding scratching or harsh movements that   could cause hair breakage, especially since 
hair is more prone to breakage when wet. Using both hands and your fingertips, but not 
your nails! Start at the sides of your temple   and work your way up to the crown of your head. 
Then, move from the base of your ears to the top   of your head on both sides, and don&amp;#39;t forget 
the nape of your neck. Spend about three to   five minutes massaging your scalp. This gentle 
massage helps to soften skin cells, exfoliate,   remove debris, and stimulate blood flow, 
promoting a healthy scalp and hair growth. Once you&amp;#39;ve thoroughly cleaned your scalp,   bring the foam down to your hair shaft 
to ensure they&amp;#39;re cleansed as well. Then, rinse your hair with water thoroughly. Make 
sure to rinse multiple times, back and forth,   up and down. Gently ruffle your hair and 
lift the strands to ensure every part   is thoroughly rinsed. This ensures that any 
remaining shampoo or residue is washed away,   leaving your hair clean and refreshed. The wash and care tips we discussed 
earlier are applicable for everyone,   regardless of scalp type. However, here are some 
specific tips tailored to different scalp types. For those with an oily scalp, it&amp;#39;s best to 
wash your hair daily or every other day.   Opt for gentle shampoos that 
don&amp;#39;t strip away too much oil,   as excessive oil removal can actually 
lead to dry hair and increased hair loss. In fact, the amount of hair loss over 
two days without washing can sometimes   exceed that of daily washing. So, all the 
tik toks about training your hair or hair   oiling by washing your hair once a week is 
actually doing more harm than good for you. if you&amp;#39;re regularly exposed to environments 
filled with dust, grease, or smoke,   it&amp;#39;s still important to wash your hair 
regularly to keep it clean and healthy. Staying clear of any leave-in conditioners or 
thick formulas that may weigh the hair down   and contribute to a greasy, oily scalp. Instead,   opt for lightweight conditioners made for 
your scalp type. If you experience dandruff,   opt for a zinc-based shampoo and wash at the 
same frequency as you would with an oily scalp. Healing a dry scalp is all about making 
sure this area receives enough hydration   and isn&amp;#39;t overwashed. For those with a dry scalp, opt for a mildly 
acidic shampoo containing ingredients like   hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or gluco-peptides. 
These ingredients help gently remove buildup,   minimize irritation, and protect the 
scalp&amp;#39;s natural sebum. Since scalp   sebum has a protective effect, it&amp;#39;s best not 
to use super-cleansing scrubs on a daily basis,   especially if you&amp;#39;re washing your hair 
daily. Instead, go for a deep cleanse   once a week to maintain scalp health without 
stripping away too much natural moisture. If you&amp;#39;re experiencing flakes along 
with dryness, consider using a medicated   over-the-counter shampoo containing 
zinc, salicylic acid, or magnesium. For those with a sensitive scalp, paying 
attention to the ingredients in hair   products is crucial. Many shampoos and hair 
products contain allergenic preservatives,   such as Methylchlorothiazolinone, DMDM, 
Glycolactone, and Imidazolidinyl Urea,   which can trigger sensitivities and reactions. If 
a shampoo doesn&amp;#39;t list its ingredients, you can   use apps or websites to search for the ingredient 
list, which are often sorted by ingredient ratio. Opt for shampoos specifically 
formulated for sensitive skin,   as they are designed to be gentle and less 
likely to cause irritation. Additionally,   finding the best washing routine that suits your 
scalp is essential for maintaining scalp health. Combination scalp, as the name suggests, 
experiences both oiliness and dryness,   requiring a balanced approach to care. To achieve 
this balance, use a gentle shampoo on the scalp   and avoid over-drying by adjusting your washing 
frequency. Spot treat specific areas with a   balancing scalp treatment or moisturizing hair 
serum/oil to address any dryness or oiliness. For those with an oily scalp and dry 
ends, opt for a light shampoo and   hydrating conditioner applied only to the 
lengths and ends of the hair. Conversely,   if dealing with a dry scalp and balanced 
ends, use a hydrating shampoo on the scalp   and a lightweight conditioner on the lengths 
and ends. Be cautious with clarifying shampoos,   as they may be effective for oily scalps but 
could be too drying for combination scalps. When selecting scalp products, prioritize gentle 
cleansing formulas. Look for shampoos designed to   decongest and soothe the scalp while also 
removing buildup from the hair strands. ~~~~~
Now that we&amp;#39;ve   covered the ins and outs of hair washing 
steps and the best products for our scalp,   let&amp;#39;s discuss some good habits that everyone 
should practice to maintain optimal scalp health. In addition to proper cleansing, remember 
that your scalp needs UV protection just   like your skin does! Sun exposure 
can lead to sunburn on the scalp,   causing cell damage that may result 
in hair fall. Moreover, UV radiation   can leave your hair looking discolored, 
dull, and coarse, robbing it of its shine. To protect your scalp and hair 
from the sun&amp;#39;s harmful rays,   consider using hair sunscreen 
products in mist or powder form,   which you can apply directly to your hair and 
scalp. Another excellent option for protecting   your hair from the sun is to look for leave-in 
conditioners that contain zinc oxide. Zinc oxide   offers effective UV protection, shielding your 
hair from the harmful effects of the sun&amp;#39;s rays. Alternatively, wearing a wide-brimmed hat 
or carrying an umbrella when out in the   sun can also provide effective 
protection against sun damage. Dry shampoo is a convenient solution for those 
days when washing your hair feels like a chore.   Essentially, it&amp;#39;s a powder mist that absorbs 
grease from your hair, reviving your roots and   giving them a fresh, fluffy appearance. While 
it&amp;#39;s handy for emergencies, it&amp;#39;s not ideal to   leave dry shampoo in your hair overnight. Doing 
so can potentially clog up your hair follicles,   leading to scalp issues. It&amp;#39;s important 
to practice thorough cleaning to remove   any remaining product buildup from your hair. So, 
while dry shampoo can be a lifesaver in a pinch,   it&amp;#39;s best to use it sparingly and wash your hair 
regularly for optimal scalp and hair health. For hijab-wearing girls, ensuring that 
your hair and scalp are completely dry   before putting on your hijab is crucial. 
Wet hair or scalp covered by a hijab can   create a humid environment, leading to 
increased sebum production and promoting   bacteria growth. This can result in an 
unpleasant scalp odor if left unchecked. In addition to external factors, such as hair care 
products, your diet plays a significant role in   scalp and hair health. Dieting for weight loss, 
for instance, can sometimes lead to malnutrition,   due to inadequate intake of essential 
micronutrients, protein, and dietary fiber.   This deficiency can increase the likelihood 
of experiencing hair loss and shedding. Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as 
smoking, excessive alcohol consumption,   stress, and lack of sleep have also been 
linked to an increased risk of hair loss,   as supported by research findings. 
Therefore, maintaining a balanced   diet and adopting healthy lifestyle habits are 
essential for promoting scalp and hair health. —------- In this segment, we&amp;#39;re delving into solutions 
for both hair loss and hair shedding,   building upon our understanding 
of their differences and causes. To encourage hair regrowth, adopting a 
structured approach is key. Enter the   &amp;quot;Hair Regrowth Pyramid,&amp;quot; comprising three 
crucial layers aimed at reducing hair loss,   regulating the scalp environment, and 
ultimately promoting hair regrowth. Starting with the foundation of this pyramid 
is to reduce hair loss. As we all know,   hair follicles that are congested with 
dirt and sebum lead to hair fall. So It&amp;#39;s   all about keeping that scalp squeaky clean 
with the appropriate products. Remember,   you can refer back to our previous section to find 
the perfect match for your scalp type. But if you   notice your hair feeling greasy and sticking 
together after using a particular product,   that&amp;#39;s a big red flag waving at you – it 
might not be the best fit for your scalp!
  It&amp;#39;s essential to be mindful of habits 
that could lead to excess hair loss,   like wearing your hairstyle or hijab too tightly. 
The constant pulling and tugging can cause your   hairline to recede over time. Instead, opt 
for hairstyles that allow for a looser fit,   minimizing stress on your hair follicles. Your 
scalp will thank you for it in the long run! Moving up to the second layer of our pyramid, 
we&amp;#39;re talking about regulating the condition of   your scalp. So, beyond just keeping it clean, 
sometimes you need to give those problem areas   some extra TLC. Take, for instance, an oily scalp 
– it might benefit from a deep cleanse using a   scalp scrub to clear out all that accumulated 
gunk and dirt. Do this once a week. Now,   for those dealing with a dry scalp, a nourishing 
scalp mask is your go-to. This helps replenish   moisture and can be a real lifesaver against 
the drying effects of hard water or harsh   hair products. Again, weekly use is ideal to 
help soothe and hydrate. And don&amp;#39;t forget,   targeted scalp oils or serums can also work 
wonders for those specific trouble spots. In the final phase of promoting hair growth, it&amp;#39;s 
crucial to first establish a solid foundation by   following the practices outlined in the bottom 
two layers. Once you&amp;#39;ve done that, you can explore   various methods to stimulate hair growth. One 
popular option is using hair serums or tonics,   which often contain ingredients like caffeine, 
biotin, peptides, collagen, keratin, or vitamins   known to strengthen hair roots. Keep in mind that 
there&amp;#39;s no one-size-fits-all solution, so choose   a formula that suits your hair and scalp type, 
as well as any skin sensitivities you may have. Alternatively, you might prefer natural 
ingredients such as herbal or root extracts,   castor oil, rosemary oil, or jojoba oil. 
Some studies suggest that essential oils   like rosemary oil can be as effective as 
medicated topical products for regrowing   hair in certain cases. Additionally, 
nutrient-rich oils like coconut oil,   argan oil, and olive oil can provide 
essential fatty acids to nourish the scalp. Whichever option you choose, remember 
to apply these hair tonics, serums,   and oils with a gentle massage using 
fingers or a scalp massager. Massaging   the scalp improves blood circulation, 
which can further support hair growth. For those seeking more effective and faster 
results, an over-the-counter (OTC) medicated   topical treatment containing minoxidil (also known 
as Rogaine) is often recommended by healthcare   providers to promote hair growth and enhance hair 
thickness and density. When applied to the scalp,   minoxidil is believed to widen blood 
vessels, thereby promoting blood flow to   hair follicles. This improved circulation 
is thought to stimulate hair growth. However, it&amp;#39;s important to consult your pharmacist 
or doctor before using this product, as pregnant   or breastfeeding mothers are advised against 
its use. Additionally, it&amp;#39;s essential to note   that initial hair loss may occur after starting 
minoxidil treatment, and visible results may only   be seen after this shedding phase. Furthermore, 
discontinuing the use of minoxidil can halt its   hair growth-promoting effects, so consistent 
use is necessary to maintain hair growth. Certain types of light therapy have shown promise   in encouraging hair growth 
and reducing hair thinning. Utilizing low-level light therapy (LLLT) devices 
at home has been found to stimulate scalp cells,   improve blood supply, reduce inflammation, 
and promote hair regeneration. Studies have   indicated that light therapy can significantly 
increase hair density after several weeks of   consistent use. If you have the budget and 
are open to trying something new, it may be   worth giving light therapy a try. Just remember, 
consistency is key to achieving the best results. Finally, consider incorporating oral 
supplements into your routine to enhance   your overall well-being and support scalp health 
from the inside out. Multivitamins, biotin,   collagen, and zinc are among the supplements 
that have been associated with promoting healthy   hair growth and scalp condition. Adding 
these supplements to your daily regimen   may provide additional support in your 
journey towards healthier hair and scalp. Now, coming to Part 2. Let&amp;#39;s 
shift our focus to hair.   You&amp;#39;ve probably come across countless hair hacks 
promising smooth, shiny locks, but the truth is,   none of them will work unless you truly 
understand your hair. In this section,   we&amp;#39;ve prepared a short quiz to help you assess 
the health status of your hair, determine its   porosity, and identify your specific curl type. 
Armed with this knowledge, caring for your hair   becomes less of a guessing game and more like a 
strategic approach to achieving your hair goals. Let&amp;#39;s dive into the quiz! Before we 
proceed with the quiz, it&amp;#39;s important   to note that each question is advised to 
be tested at a specific time frame. You   can refer to the bottom of the slide to 
know when you should carry out the test. Remember to note down the number of As and Bs you 
get for each question. Now, for question number 1:   Take a strand of hair from the outer layer 
and another from the inner region. Do you   notice a difference in color between these 
two strands? Mark A for yes and B for no. Question 2: When the weather gets wet or humid,   does your hair tend to become frizzy, 
messy, or flat? A for yes, B for no. Question 3: Take a strand of hair 
and wrap it around your fingers. Do   you observe a shine to your hair under the light? Question 4: Divide your hair into two halves 
and run your fingers from the midsection of   your head towards the end. Are there any tangles 
that stop your fingers from smoothing along? Question 5: Comb through your hair a 
few times. Do you notice any breakage   or white dots along the hair shaft when combing? Question 6: Wet your hair 
thoroughly and try to make   a knot. Does it loosen out when you release it? So, based on the number of A’s you tallied,   you can determine the current status of 
your hair. If you didn&amp;#39;t get any A&amp;#39;s,   congrats! Your hair is in perfect condition 
– smooth, shiny, and free from discoloration. If you got only 1 A, your hair might be 
mildly damaged. You might notice some frizz,   split ends, and discoloration 
between the inner and outer hair. For 2 to 3 A&amp;#39;s, your hair suffers from medium 
damage. It may feel coarse to the touch,   appear dull with a lack of 
shine, and tangle easily. With more than 3 A&amp;#39;s, your hair might be severely 
damaged. It could be dry, frizzy, and prone to   split ends and tangling. Additionally, your 
hair may break easily when you comb through it. Now, let&amp;#39;s delve into the next test: the hair 
porosity test. Porosity measures how well your   hair can absorb and retain moisture, indicating 
how easily moisture can penetrate the hair shaft.   While largely determined by genetics,   external factors like heat and chemical 
treatments can also influence hair porosity. To determine your hair porosity at home, there 
are a few quick tests you can try. One popular   method is the Float Test. Simply gather some 
clean strands of hair from your brush or comb.   Cut them to about 3 inches and drop them 
into a glass of water. After a few minutes,   observe the results. If the hair strands float 
on the top, you likely have low porosity hair;   if they sink all the way to the bottom, 
your hair is likely high porosity. And   if they remain in the middle, your hair 
is probably of medium porosity. Keep in   mind that while these tests provide helpful 
insights, they may not yield precise results. Low porosity hair is characterized 
by its resistance to moisture due to   closed hair cuticles, making it challenging 
to penetrate with water or products. However,   once moisture is absorbed, it tends to stay 
locked in, reducing the risk of dryness. Medium porosity hair, on the other hand, has 
a more relaxed cuticle layer, facilitating a   balanced flow of moisture in and out. This type 
of hair easily absorbs and retains moisture,   typically maintaining good health with 
minimal damage from environmental factors. High porosity hair features gaps and openings 
in the cuticle layer, allowing moisture to   enter and exit rapidly. This can result 
in frizz and tangling in humid conditions,   as well as excessive dryness in arid climates. 
Additionally, high porosity hair struggles to   retain moisture and is prone to damage from UV 
exposure, heat styling, and chemical treatments. Coming to the last test, we identify what 
your curly hair type is! In the realm of   hair classification, scientists have explored 
categorizing curliness by assessing various   parameters of the hair fiber. This endeavour has 
resulted in a system that assigns a numerical   value to hair types ranging from 1 to 4. In 
this system, higher numbers denote curlier   hair with tighter coils, while lower numbers 
indicate straighter hair with looser curls. To find out, you may want to sacrifice a few 
hair strands by plucking them out off your head   while your hair is still wet. Lay them flat 
against a white surface and watch them take   their natural shape while they air-dry. You 
may identify with a few different patterns,   as all hair doesn&amp;#39;t necessarily contain the 
same type of curl consistently throughout. Hair curl types are categorized using a system 
that combines a number and a letter. The number   indicates the level of curliness, ranging from 
1 to 4, with higher numbers representing tighter   curls. The letter indicates the overall pattern 
or texture of the hair within each curl category.   For example, Type 2 hair has some waves and is 
labeled as A, B, or C based on the texture of   those waves. Hair Type 2A has loose waves, 2B has 
more defined waves, and 2C has waves that verge on   being curly. Similarly, Type 3 hair has loose 
curls (as 3A), medium curls (as 3B), or tight   curls (as 3C), and Type 4 hair has tightly 
coiled patterns ranging from 4A to 4C,   with 4A being looser coils and 4C being 
tightly coiled or kinky. This system helps   individuals identify their unique hair texture 
and choose appropriate styling and care methods. So, by conducting these 3 tests, 
you can identify the health status,   porosity, and curl type of your hair. 
This information will guide you in   choosing the right steps and products 
to effectively care for your hair. Now take down your results and we 
will proceed to the next section. Healthy hair is measured by five dimensions: 
shine, softness, smoothness, strength,   and bounciness. To understand how to achieve 
these qualities, it&amp;#39;s important to know the   structure of the hair strand, which corresponds 
to these different dimensions and hair porosity. The hair shaft consists of three layers: the 
cuticle, the cortex, and the medulla. The cuticle,   also known as the capillary cortex, is 
the outermost layer. When the cuticle is   moderately damaged, hair looks less smooth 
and shiny (impacting shine and smoothness),   becoming frizzy and rough to the touch 
(affecting softness). The second layer,   the cortex, determines the shape, thickness, 
and elasticity of the hair. Damage to the   cortex affects the overall health of 
the hair, impacting its elasticity and   resilience (which corresponds to the other 
two dimensions, bounciness and strength). First of all, we need to address bad 
habits that negatively impact the five   dimensions of healthy hair. As you 
go through the following habits,   see if any of them sound familiar—they might 
be why your hair isn&amp;#39;t looking its best. Number 1: Not combing your hair before washing 
it. Ensure your hair is tangle-free before   washing. This helps your shampoo foam up better 
and reduces friction between your hair strands,   which can decrease hair falling and breakage. Number 2: Towel-drying your hair by rubbing it 
vigorously. When your hair is wet, the cuticles   are open, making the hair more susceptible to 
damage from friction. Rubbing your hair with   a towel can harm the cuticles, causing your hair 
to lose its shine and become coarse to the touch. The correct way should be 
either patting your hair dry,   or gently wrap the towel around your 
hair and squeeze it to absorb the water. Number 3: Holding your blow dryer too close 
to your scalp is another common mistake. The   high heat can accelerate moisture loss, 
causing damage to the ends of your hair,   increasing porosity, and leading 
to dry, split ends. The correct   distance from your scalp should be 
15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) away. Number 4: Not using heat protectant on 
your hair can cause it to become dry,   frizzy, and discolored. The high heat from 
styling tools damages the cuticles and the   natural moisture barrier of your hair, leading 
to significant deterioration in hair quality. Number 5: Not drying your hair thoroughly before 
going to sleep is also problematic. As mentioned,   hair cuticles are more open when wet, making them 
more susceptible to breakage and loss of shine   due to friction from tossing and turning on your 
pillow. Besides that, the moist environment of wet   hair creates a breeding ground for bacteria and 
fungi, which is harmful to your hair&amp;#39;s health.So,   remember to dry your hair completely 
before you go to get your beauty sleep! Lastly, the same principle applies when you 
go out with wet hair. Wet hair and scalp   receive double the UV exposure compared to 
your face. Harsh sunlight can thin the cuticle,   making your hair more prone to 
breakage and discoloration. So,   make sure your hair is completely 
dry before heading out! To properly care for your hair, it&amp;#39;s 
essential to have a solid hair care   routine. This ensures that every 
strand of your hair is well taken   care of. Now, let’s walk through the 
correct step-by-step hair care routine,   starting from washing and conditioning to 
applying hair oil, drying, and styling. First, always begin your washing routine 
by combing through your hair to detangle   all the knots. Remember to comb 
from the bottom up. This makes   the washing process smoother and more effective. Wet your hair thoroughly for a few minutes. 
Next, lather the shampoo in your hands   until it foams up, then massage 
it into your scalp. You can refer   to the hair washing techniques we 
discussed earlier for more details. Rinse your hair and scalp thoroughly with 
water. Once you&amp;#39;ve rinsed out the shampoo,   don&amp;#39;t go applying conditioner or mask right 
after when your hair is still dripping wet.   That&amp;#39;ll just rinse it right out before it 
can penetrate! Instead, gently press out the   excess water - no vigorous rubbing or twisting 
since that&amp;#39;ll just rough up your cuticles even   more when they&amp;#39;re open like that. You can 
lightly towel press too if that&amp;#39;s easier. Now, grab your hair conditioner or mask, 
and use an appropriate amount for your hair   length and volume. For short hair, about 
one pump is enough; for mid-length hair,   use one and a half pumps; and for long 
hair, use two pumps. Rub the conditioner   in your palms to distribute it evenly. 
Apply it to the ends of your hair first,   since they are drier and more prone to damage, 
then work your way up to the mid-shaft,   avoiding the scalp. Press the conditioner 
along your hair to ensure better absorption. Wait about five minutes for the 
conditioner to work its magic,   then rinse it out thoroughly with running water. Next, dry your hair with a 
towel. As mentioned earlier,   avoid rubbing your hair vigorously with the 
towel as it can easily cause damage. Instead,   pat your hair dry, or gently wrap the towel around 
your hair and squeeze it to absorb the water. Once your hair is towel-dried 
using the proper technique,   you&amp;#39;re ready for oils and serums. 
But did you know the application   technique and timing are everything when 
it comes to getting the most out of these? The technique depends on the 
health status of your hair. If your hair is severely damaged—dry, frizzy, and 
lifeless from over-bleaching or processing—apply   hair serum twice in your routine. First, before 
drying your hair to reduce heat damage. This locks   in moisture by smoothing the cuticle layer, 
so the dryer won&amp;#39;t strip away the remaining   moisture. The second application is after 
blow-drying to smooth out frizz and add shine. For medium-damaged hair, which tangles 
easily, lacks shine, and breaks easily,   also apply hair oil twice. First, 
when your hair is 50% dry, and second,   when it’s 80-90% dry. The second application is 
optional, depending on how frizzy your hair is. For healthy or mildly damaged hair, apply 
hair oil once when your hair is 80-90% dry. So there’s no one-size-fits-all approach! 
It all depends on your hair condition. As for the application method itself, 
rub the oil between your palms first,   and then distribute it evenly over your palms 
and fingers. Then use your hands like a comb,   smoothing and raking the oil through from 
roots to ends. This ensures every strand   is coated without that greasy buildup 
you get from just plopping oil on top. Proper timing and technique can make all 
the difference - ingredients only make up   about 30% of the results you see! The other 
70% is making sure you&amp;#39;re setting your hair   up for maximum absorption and sealing in those 
benefits. A little extra care goes a long way! It&amp;#39;s important to know the correct way to dry 
your hair when using a hairdryer. Drying your   hair improperly can result in stripping 
excess moisture, tangling and hair fall. You may blow-dry your hair in 2 ways. The first method is blow drying from the top of 
your head. Ensure the airflow is directed towards   the ends of your hair. This way, you dry the scalp 
and roots first for quicker overall drying. If you   start from the ends, water will keep dripping down 
from the top, making the process longer. Then,   gradually work your way down to the ends until 
your hair is 80 to 90 percent dry. You can also   use hair oil or serum during the blow-drying 
process, based on the timing suggested in the   earlier section. Continue to blow dry in the 
same manner until your hair is completely dry. The second method is blow-drying with your 
hair forward.This method is suitable for   beauties with thin, flat hair as it helps 
your hair look more voluminous and fluffy.  Start by flipping your hair forward and 
blow-drying the back of your head. Use warmer air   to remove excess water from your scalp. Move to 
the next section once the current area feels dry. Switch to cooler air, and flip 
your hair to each side to blow   dry the scalp. Blow dry in the opposite 
direction of your hair&amp;#39;s natural growth   to make your roots stand taller and 
appear poofier. Continue dividing and   flipping your hair to the opposite 
side to dry each section thoroughly. You can apply another coat of 
hair oil to finish off. Finally,   comb through your hair, and you&amp;#39;re good to go! Now for all my curly-haired beauties out there,   we&amp;#39;ve got some extra tips when it comes 
to drying those luscious ringlets. Those of you with looser waves or curls in the 
type 3 range as well as my 4C curl queens with   tight coils and zig-zags - the first rule is 
the same. Aggressive towel drying is a major   no-no as it will just create a frizzy mess and 
disrupt your gorgeous curl pattern. Instead,   gently blot or press the towel to remove excess 
moisture without rubbing or twisting your strands. For beauties with type 3 curls, 
you have a couple drying options.   Either let your hair air dry to allow those 
pretty curls to form naturally, or use a   diffuser attachment on your blow dryer if you&amp;#39;re 
in a hurry. Before drying, apply a styler like a   mousse or curl cream to help encourage and set the 
curl pattern. Gently cup and scrunch sections as   you diffuse to enhance definition, avoiding 
too much friction from the diffuser itself. And for those tiny, delicate type 4 coils, air 
drying really is ideal to allow each one to   form without disturbance. If you must blow dry, 
use a diffuser on the coolest setting possible,   constantly moving it in a cupping motion 
around your head. Applying a rich leave-in   conditioner or curl cream beforehand is 
key to locking in moisture and maintaining   definition. Take your time and avoid excessive 
manipulation - those tight coils are fragile! Along with using the right techniques for 
your hair type, there are some other simple   habits you can adopt to really take 
your hair health to the next level. First up, UV protection. We have 
mentioned about it in the previous   section, so we are pretty sure you 
know the importance of doing so! Second, no matter the condition of your hair, 
using a heat protectant is a must before applying   any hot styling tools. Heat protectants act 
as a barrier between your hair and the heat,   protecting it from burning, drying 
out, and becoming dull. You can   use any heat protectant, whether it&amp;#39;s a 
hair oil, mist, or leave-in conditioner,   to prevent high temperatures from 
stripping moisture from your hair. Next, let&amp;#39;s talk about protecting your 
hair overnight. If you toss and turn a lot,   all that friction against a cotton 
pillowcase can cause major breakage   and frizz by morning. Do your hair a favor 
and swap out for a satin or silk pillowcase   or bonnet. This sleek material allows your 
hair to glide smoothly without snagging or   pulling. It also helps hair retain moisture 
instead of getting soaked up by cotton. A simple switch that makes a big difference! Speaking of less friction and protecting your 
strands, have you tried embracing some heatless   curl styling methods? Putting down those hot 
tools even a couple days a week gives your hair   a well-deserved break from high heat damage. Some 
cute options are using rollers, using curl formers   or rods for ringlets, braiding for texture, or 
my personal favorite - the viral sock or heatless   curler set on tiktok for that natural wavy look. 
You can look for tutorials online to achieve it! Last but not least, get regular hair trims. Regular hair trims may seem like an 
unnecessary expense or inconvenience,   but they are essential for maintaining 
healthy and beautiful hair. Trimming your hair helps it grow longer 
and healthier. By cutting off split ends   and damaged hair, you stimulate 
new growth and prevent breakage. Hair experts suggest scheduling 
a trim every 8 to 12 weeks,   though the intervals may vary depending 
on your hair&amp;#39;s health and length. Shorter hair may need a haircut every three 
to four weeks. Damaged hair should be trimmed   more frequently, about every six weeks.
If a monthly haircut isn’t in your budget   or you’re aiming to keep your hair long, 
enhance your at-home hair care routine   with products that target damaged strands. 
Ultimately, find a balance that works for you. The choices are just limitless when it comes 
to exploring different ways to care for your   hair! You can mix and match to find the 
routine that best suits your lifestyle,   preferences, and unique hair type. One of the most important things to get right in 
your hair care routine is using products that are   properly matched to your hair&amp;#39;s porosity level. 
Getting this wrong can lead to moisture issues,   damage, and disappointing results.
If you have low porosity hair with cuticles   that resist moisture, look for lightweight, 
water-based products that won&amp;#39;t weigh down   or coat the hair. Key ingredients to look for 
include humectants like glycerin, aloe vera,   and honey that help attract and retain hydration. 
Lightweight oils like argan and grapeseed can also   draw moisture into those tight cuticles.
Use clarifying shampoos or low-poo   cleanser occasionally to prevent 
buildup on low porosity strands.   A &amp;quot;low poo&amp;quot; cleanser is a type of shampoo that 
is formulated with fewer harsh chemicals and   sulfates compared to traditional shampoos. 
The term &amp;quot;low poo&amp;quot; stands for &amp;quot;low shampoo,&amp;quot;   indicating that it is a gentler alternative 
designed to cleanse the hair without stripping   it of its natural oils.
And stick to lightweight,   protein-free rinse-out conditioners as heavy 
creams can&amp;#39;t penetrate low porosity hair.  As product build-up happens more likely in 
low porosity hair, when deep conditioning,   apply heat like a steamer or hood dryer - this 
helps briefly raise and open the cuticle so the   moisturizing ingredients can penetrate better.
For those with medium porosity levels, gentle,   sulfate-free shampoos will cleanse without 
stripping moisture. Incorporate periodic   use of richer, deep conditioning treatments 
every week or two to replenish hydration.   Hydrating leave-in milks and creams are 
great for day-to-day moisture maintenance.  A wide range of balanced, moisturizing shampoos 
and conditioners are great options. When it   comes to key ingredients, look for a mix 
of humectants like honey, shea butter,   and oils such as coconut, jojoba, or avocado 
oil to help attract and seal in hydration.  Now for high porosity hair where moisture 
easily escapes those raised, porous cuticles,   look for anti-humectant stylers like 
gels that help control frizz. Rich,   creamy, emollient-rich conditioners are best 
to seal in hydration. Leave-in conditioners can   also help maintain moisture throughout the day.
When it comes to key ingredients for high porosity   hair, products with proteins like hydrolyzed 
wheat, silk or keratin can help strengthen and   rebuild damaged areas. Heavier oils and butters 
(like castor oil, olive oil or shea butter)   create an occlusive layer to smooth and seal 
the cuticle, reducing frizz and moisture loss.  Be sure to regularly use deep conditioning 
treatments packed with these reconstructing   proteins to repair porous strands from the 
inside out. And apply hair oils, butters or   heavy creams as the last step to seal the deal.
No matter if you&amp;#39;re low, medium or high porosity,   the key is using products designed to help 
moisture properly absorb into the hair strand   or create a protective sealant layer to 
prevent dehydration. Match your routine   to your porosity needs for stronger, 
smoother, longer-lasting hydration. In the end, it&amp;#39;s crucial to identify the 
root cause behind your scalp and hair issues.  Once you understand your scalp 
type and its unique needs, you   can tackle the problems with the right products 
and techniques tailored specifically for you.  Establishing a solid cleansing 
routine is paramount to ensure   your scalp stays clean and healthy.
Don&amp;#39;t neglect basic hair care fundamentals like   protection from environmental stressors too.
While results may not be immediate,   consistency is key.
Stay dedicated to your hair regimen,   and your luscious locks will thank you in time.
Share us your best hair tip in the comments!  Thank you so much for watching!
We will see you in the next video. Goodbye!

Transcript for:The Ultimate Guide to Scalp and Hair Care

Transcript for:
The Ultimate Guide to Scalp and Hair Care