Traditional hair care methods are no longer enough.
Dr. Charles Puza, a New York-based, Harvard-educated, board-certified dermatologist, reveals his secret trinity for healthy hair.
In a TikTok last month, she recommended changing shampoos, drying hair with cold air and using hair masks.
1. Stop using the same shampoo every day
As Puza explained, just as your skincare needs change, your haircare needs change too.
He recommended a process known as hair cycling, which involves rotating products based on your scalp’s needs.
For example, ketoconazole shampoos can combat Malassezia, a major cause of dandruff, while selenium and salicylic acid shampoos can reduce visible and invisible dandruff.
“Hidden dandruff is also bad for your hair,” asserted Puza.
Hair cycling is also recommended by Dr. Meredith Goodwin, clinical advisor for Healthline Media.
She told the Post earlier this year: “Different shampoo and conditioner combinations leave a different coating (or lack of) on the hair shaft that often builds up with continued use, so many people find that switching up their shampoo and conditioner combinations makes their hair feel better.”
2. Don’t let your hair air dry
Air drying is also a no-no, Puza explained: “Avoid letting your hair air dry and don’t leave it wet for long periods of time,” he advised.
He argued that using a cold air dryer is the healthiest way to dry wet hair.
Brushing wet hair is also not recommended as it can damage your hair.
Bronwen Robinson, senior hairstylist and educator at Sweet Caroline in Soho, recently told The Post that wet hair resembles “wet spaghetti” and stretches and breaks easily. She recommended using a natural-fiber brush (never a hard plastic one) to work out knots before wetting your hair.
3. Use a leave-in conditioner
Just as your skin benefits from peeling and exfoliation, your hair will also benefit from some intensive care.
Ms Pooza endorsed the once-weekly routine of using a leave-in conditioner: “This hair mask is a game changer.”
The Post recommends Living Proof No Frizz Leave-In Conditioner as an all-around remedy.
Chris Appleton + Colour Wow Money Mask is one of Post’s favourite hair masks.
