How to Get Healthy Hair

For many people, hair is a defining characteristic with significance that extends beyond their physical appearance. It can be a point of pride, a cultural signifier, or a means of expression, meaning that taking care of your hair means more than just having a good or bad hair day. Well-defined curls, well-hydrated texture, or a smooth, silky appearance require diligent maintenance and a commitment to a healthy hair care routine. However, while very important, maintaining healthy hair does not have to be a complicated process. In fact, the steps to healthy hair are relatively simple and can be accomplished without breaking the bank. The first step to achieving healthy hair is to determine the hair care routine that will be most effective for you by consulting with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green.

To create an effective hair care routine, it is essential to determine your hair type, as different hair types require specific products and maintenance tailored to their unique needs. At Dr. Green’s Upper East Side, New York City dermatology office, she will examine your hair and scalp to recommend products and practices for your specific hair type. Patients with straight hair may need to wash more regularly, but should avoid shampoos with harsh ingredients and overwashing. Patients with curly and coily hair may find that their hair is naturally drier, meaning they will need to condition more frequently. They may also benefit from using butters, creams, and gels to maintain hydration between washes. Whether you are looking to improve your hair care routine, change your habits, or are experiencing brittle, dry, frizzy hair, Dr. Green has recommendations to help you meet your aesthetic goals.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options. Dr. Green takes a holistic approach, embracing a less-is-more philosophy, and creates customized skincare routines and treatment plans that cater to the unique concerns and aesthetic goals of her patients. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise.

What healthy hair looks like

Healthy hair can look different for each individual, depending on their hair type; however, generally speaking, healthy hair is characterized by a smooth texture, shine, and minimal to no breakage:

1. Smoothness

Hair smoothness is characterized by the texture of the individual strands of hair rather than your overall hair texture. When you rub a strand between your fingers, you can feel whether the hair strand is rough or smooth. If the strand is rough or bumpy, it demonstrates that the cuticle layer of the hair has been damaged.

2. Shiny Hair

Shiny hair occurs when the hair strands have enough moisture, though straight hair types tend to show shine more obviously than curly hair types. Keeping the hair moisturized is essential for strengthening the hair shaft and preventing breakage, frizz, and split ends.

3. No Breakage

Hair without breakage means that there are no split ends at the bottom of the strand of hair, and a limited number of “flyaways” or “baby hairs.” Split ends and breakage occur when there is repeated tension on the hair from tight hairstyles or from excessive heat use from blow dryers, perms, straighteners, or relaxers. The appearance of split ends is often an indicator that it’s time for a haircut or a regular trim.

How to make your hair healthy

The key to healthy hair is recognizing your natural hair type and creating a hair care routine accordingly. Different hair types require different hair care products to keep the hair and scalp clean and moisturized. While straight hair may be naturally more oily and require more frequent hair washing, curly hair is naturally drier, meaning it requires deep conditioner and, depending on how tight the curls are, hair oils, masks, and leave-in conditioner.

While the specific hair care routine may vary, some general healthy hair tips are as follows:

• When washing your hair, apply shampoo to your scalp rather than the ends of your hair to clear the scalp of buildup without drying out the rest of your hair.
• Be sure always to use conditioner after shampooing to moisturize and prevent dry hair. While the conditioner is in your hair, gently work out the tangles with a wide-toothed comb or your fingers.
• Be gentle with your hair when it is wet. Wet hair is more fragile, so to avoid damaging the hair follicles, comb the hair with a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush and wrap your hair in a towel or t-shirt rather than rubbing it dry.
• Avoid heat styling whenever possible. Excess heat from blow drying, straightening, and curling can cause damage to the hair over time, resulting in breakage, split ends, and brittle hair. Let your hair air dry whenever possible. If you must use heat styling tools, use the lowest setting.

What is the best hair care routine by hair type?

The best hair care routine and hair care products depend on your hair type. While each person’s hair is unique, hair stylists and hair care product companies have broadly divided hair types into four categories used to describe curl pattern and hair texture. Each hair type (and sub-type) requires different hair care, and one way to ensure that you are treating your hair correctly is to consult with an expert dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green, who can recommend the best products for your specific hair needs.

Type 1: Straight Hair

Type 1 hair hangs straight from the scalp down to the end of the hair with no natural curl. Straight hair is more prone to the buildup of natural oils, which, without the proper hair care, can result in an oily appearance. As such, patients with type 1 hair will need to wash their hair more frequently. Be cautious not to wash the hair too much, as overwashing can trigger the overproduction of natural oils, leading to flaking and irritation on the scalp. Patients can turn to dry shampoo to keep their hair looking fresh without washing it too much with shampoo.

Type 2: Wavy Hair

Type 2 hair has a natural wave, ranging from type 2A, which has loose, undefined waves, to type 2C, which has more well-defined, S-shaped curls. Patients with wavy hair who want their natural hair to shine should avoid heavy creams that can weigh down the gentle curls. Instead, patients with wavy hair can turn to a light-weight gel or mousse. Type 2 hair is often prone to frizz, so Dr. Green also recommends products with anti-humidity ingredients.

Type 3: Curly Hair

Type 3 hair is characterized by curls that form loose loops. Hydration and moisturizing are essential for patients with type 3 hair, as curly hair is prone to dryness and frizz, so patients should turn to a shampoo without silicone or sulfates and a deep conditioner. Patients with curly hair should avoid brushing their hair, as it can ruin the curl definition and cause the hair to poof out. Ponytails and tight hairstyles where curly hair is pulled back can also cause damage over time, resulting in thinning hair and breakage along the hairline. Friction during sleep can also damage curly hair, so Dr. Green recommends a silk pillowcase or bonnet.

Type 4: Coily Hair

Tight coils characterize type 4 hair and are prone to dryness, necessitating the use of hydrating creams, masks, and conditioners. Patients with coily hair can also consider co-washing, which involves washing their hair with conditioner instead of shampoo to help avoid drying out the hair. One popular method for caring for coily hair and enhancing the curl pattern is shingling. The process begins with wet hair and the application of a leave-in conditioner. Once the conditioner is in place, gently detangle your hair using your fingers, rather than a comb. Then, separate the hair into four sections before working in gel or curl cream from the top of the hair down to the ends. As you work the cream into your hair, twist the strands around your finger.

What is the best conditioner for hair health and wellness?

Conditioning the hair after washing is essential for keeping the hair hydrated, preventing frizz, and strengthening the hair follicles. The best type of conditioner depends on your hair type: patients with straight hair may require a lighter conditioner, while those with curly or coily hair may want something more hydrating for hair that is prone to dryness. Patients with straight hair may want to apply conditioner most heavily on the ends of the hair, while those with more curly hair should work the conditioner through from the scalp. The best way to apply conditioner in the shower is to comb it through your hair with your fingers to distribute it evenly, and leave it in for up to three minutes while you detangle.

When to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for a hair loss consultation

Some individuals may be able to improve their hair health and reduce breakage by adjusting their hair care routines and using products suited to their specific hair type. Unfortunately, many face compromised hair and scalp health due to hair loss. Hair loss, or alopecia, involves excessive shedding or thinning of hair from the scalp. These conditions are very common, affecting up to 50 million men and 30 million women. Various factors, including genetics, age, hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, medical conditions, stress, and diet, can contribute to hair loss.

If you are experiencing hair thinning or hair loss, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in New York. Dr. Green will start her examination by taking your complete medical and family history and evaluating your hair and scalp. Based on the type of hair loss observed, a comprehensive blood panel, including hormonal, autoimmune, and metabolic tests, may be ordered to help confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan to promote strong, healthy hair.

What are the most effective treatment options for preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth?

Many treatment options are available to prevent hair loss and promote regrowth. The most effective treatment, however, is the one that addresses your specific cause of hair loss. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will evaluate your hair loss and develop a personalized treatment plan that could include a tailored combination of in-office procedures, oral medications, topical products, vitamins or supplements, and lifestyle changes to help stop your hair loss.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) and Hair Growth

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an innovative hair restoration treatment that uses a patient’s own blood to stop thinning and promote hair growth. The PRP procedure involves drawing blood, which is then centrifuged to separate red blood cells from the plasma. PRP is rich in growth factors and proteins that promote blood vessel formation around hair follicles, boost cell growth, and improve tissue regeneration and healing. When injected into the scalp, PRP can rejuvenate weakened hair follicles to produce thicker, fuller, and healthier hair. Most patients need a series of four treatment sessions, each spaced one month apart, to begin hair regrowth. Patients typically start to see hair growth after the final PRP session, and Dr. Green usually recommends a follow-up three months after the last treatment in the initial series to evaluate the results. After completing their initial series of treatments, many patients choose semi-annual maintenance sessions to sustain optimal results.

HydraFacial Keravive for Improving Scalp Health

The Keravive treatment by HydraFacial is a non-invasive, medical-grade facial for the scalp. Excess buildup of oil, debris, and dead skin cells on the scalp can cause inflammation and irritation around the hair follicles, which can hinder hair growth and lead to hair loss. The Keravive scalp treatment uses patented vortex technology to cleanse and exfoliate the scalp, removing excess oil and impurities. Afterwards, the Keravive peptide complex solution, containing growth factors and proteins, is applied to nourish and hydrate the hair follicles. Following the procedure, patients use a take-home Keravive peptide complex spray for three to four weeks to preserve and enhance the results. Most patients receive three Keravive treatments spaced one month apart to support scalp health and reduce hair loss.

Topical Minoxidil to Regrow Hair

Minoxidil is the only FDA-approved over-the-counter topical treatment for hair loss. It boosts blood flow to the scalp, helping dormant hairs enter the growth phase to promote new hair growth. Minoxidil is commonly known by its brand name, Rogaine, and comes as a foam or liquid. Dr. Green’s proprietary line of products, MGSKINLABs, offers two minoxidil-based solutions for hair loss. The Hair Serum for Men contains 7% minoxidil and 0.1% finasteride, while the Hair Serum for Women contains 7% minoxidil and 0.1% progesterone. Dr. Green recommends the appropriate serum for each patient based on their age, gender, and her assessment of their hair loss. Combining minoxidil with finasteride or progesterone enhances the treatment’s effectiveness and provides the best results for hair restoration. With regular use of the topical serum, you can expect to see less shedding and hair that appears thicker and fuller.

Oral Medications to Treat Hair Loss

Oral minoxidil was initially prescribed to treat high blood pressure; however, it was later discovered that one of its side effects was new hair growth. Since then, low-dose oral minoxidil has been shown to be a safe and effective option for hair loss. It works by strengthening hair follicles, which improves retention and promotes regrowth. For many people, the oral form of minoxidil provides a convenient alternative to the topical version because it does not leave residue on the scalp and is easier to use than applying a solution twice daily.

Finasteride, known by the brand name Propecia, works by blocking the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in the body, resulting in lower DHT levels. DHT is an androgen hormone that can cause hair follicle miniaturization. Propecia has been proven to reduce hair thinning and promote hair growth. Although Propecia is only FDA-approved for men, it is commonly prescribed off-label for post-menopausal women experiencing hair loss.

Dutasteride, like finasteride, treats hair thinning and loss by blocking DHT action. Although Dutasteride has not yet received FDA approval, recent clinical studies have demonstrated its benefits as a hair loss treatment, and many healthcare professionals prescribe it off-label for male pattern baldness.

Spironolactone is an anti-androgen medication and the most commonly prescribed oral treatment for women with adult acne and hair loss. It helps regulate hormones and is especially beneficial for female patients with PCOS-related hair loss. Spironolactone is FDA-approved and works as a hair loss treatment by reducing the production of male androgen hormones.

Vitamins and Supplements for Hair Loss

Insufficient levels of certain vitamins and nutrients can contribute to hair loss, but supplementing with them may help support the scalp and slow down hair loss. Clinical studies have shown that supplements containing vitamins like biotin, vitamin C, and vitamin B can enhance the appearance of thinning hair by promoting new hair growth. A popular vitamin supplement is Nutrafol, rich in biotin and vitamins B and C, which helps promote new hair growth. Nutrafol also helps balance hormones, reduce stress, and increase nutrient levels, addressing the underlying causes of hair loss. While research is still ongoing, vitamin supplements are already proving effective in promoting hair growth.

What is the best hair mask for shiny hair?

Shiny hair occurs when the hair is adequately moisturized, resulting in a smooth texture. Some patients may experience hair dryness and frizz, resulting in a dull, sometimes straw-like appearance to the hair. Patients who use bleach or hair dye may experience dryness at a higher rate. For those experiencing hair dryness, a hair mask may be the best option for adding moisture back into the hair. A hair mask can be applied to prevent frizz, repair split ends, or rebuild the outer layer of the hair for increased moisture retention.

Can hair styling affect hair health?

Traction Alopecia is a type of hair loss that occurs when the hair is pulled consistently by tight hairstyles or headwear. In the affected area, patients may notice broken hairs or missing hair, as well as pimples or sores. Most commonly, Traction Alopecia occurs around the temples, at the front of the hairline, or along the sides of the scalp. Wearing a hat every once in a while does not typically lead to hair loss. But repeated, daily use of tight or constricting headwear may contribute to thinning or damaged hair.

Can heat styling affect hair health?

Yes, heat styling can damage hair and affect its health. Excessive heat strips moisture from strands, harms the protective cuticles, and weakens keratin proteins that give hair its structure and elasticity. Heat damage may lead to brittleness, dryness, dullness, and breakage. To keep hair healthy, it’s best to minimize heat styling. If you do use heat, apply a heat protectant beforehand and choose the lowest temperature setting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Healthy Hair

How to make your scalp healthy

Patients often wonder, “How can I keep a healthy scalp?” Maintaining a healthy scalp is crucial for overall hair health, as damage to the hair follicles can lead to thinning, breakage, and an overall unhealthy look. One natural way to boost blood flow is to do regular scalp massages. Some patients may notice flaking and oiliness on the scalp, which can occur when hair is washed too frequently. Using harsh shampoos or washing too frequently can cause your scalp to produce excess natural oils.

How to make your hair strong

One important step in maintaining strong hair is to eat a diet rich in protein, essential fatty acids, and zinc. Since your hair shaft is made of protein, consuming enough protein is crucial for healthy hair. Good sources include chicken, fish, beans, low-fat dairy, lean meats, and eggs. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, yogurt, salads, cereal, and flaxseed, can also help promote hair growth and strength. Additionally, zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding and thinning; therefore, consuming zinc-rich foods or taking supplements may help improve hair health. Dr. Green recommends eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens.

How to get shiny, healthy hair

To achieve shiny hair, your hair needs to be well-hydrated. Using deep conditioners, creams, and butters to moisturize the hair can help keep the hair fibers strong and healthy. When the hair is hydrated, light reflects off the hair shafts, creating a shiny appearance. Because of hair texture, straight hair will usually have more shine than curly hair, but this does not mean that curly hair is unhealthy.

How to get silky, healthy hair

Silky smooth hair indicates good hair health and shows that the outer layer is intact and retains moisture. To check if your hair is smooth, gently rub a strand or two between your fingers. If it feels rough, there may be damage to the outer layer. You can minimize damage to the hair cuticle by avoiding harsh shampoos with ingredients that dry out the hair, such as ammonium lauryl sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate.

How to make your hair look healthy and shiny

Finding the right hair care routine and products for your specific hair type is the most important step in making your hair look healthy. However, there are small lifestyle changes you can make to improve the appearance of your hair every day:

• Always use conditioner after shampooing.
• Wrap your hair in a cotton t-shirt to absorb excess moisture instead of rubbing it with a towel.
• Let your hair air dry whenever possible.
• If you need to use heat to dry or style your hair, apply a heat protectant.
• Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails, buns, or cornrows.

How to make bleached hair healthy

If you’re planning to change your hair color, consider starting with a bleaching process. However, it’s important to remember that bleaching can increase the risk of damage by drying out your hair. To minimize damage, try to extend the time between touch-up appointments to at least 8-10 weeks, especially during winter. Since bleached hair can become very dry, be sure to use conditioner after every wash. When in the sun, protect your hair by wearing a wide-brimmed hat or applying a leave-in conditioner with zinc oxide as a key ingredient.

Does healthy hair grow faster?

Hair grows at a rate that varies for each person, influenced by factors like age, gender, and genetics. On average, hair grows about six inches per year, although naturally curly and textured hair tends to grow more slowly. Environmental factors such as the season, stress levels, and scalp health can also impact how quickly hair grows.

How to make your hair grow faster and healthier

Patients often want to know, “How can I make my hair grow healthier?” Since hair grows at a fixed rate, it is generally not possible to make your hair grow any faster. However, you can strengthen the hair follicles by taking care to moisturize during your hair care routine with a deep conditioner, reducing stress levels, and eating a balanced diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc. With stronger, healthier hair follicles, your hair may not grow faster, but it will likely look smoother, silkier, and longer.

How to make your hair thicker and healthier

Thick, smooth, healthy hair can be achieved through a consistent hair care routine, a balanced diet, and healthy hair habits. To strengthen the hair follicle for a fuller appearance, individuals should ensure they keep their hair well-hydrated by using enough conditioner formulated specifically for their hair type. Conditioning after every wash helps preserve moisture and protect the hair’s outer layer. Hair is most vulnerable when it’s wet and more likely to break. Therefore, it is best to detangle the hair while the conditioner is still in, gently working out tangles with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb.

How to make dead hair healthy

Hair on your head grows from follicles in your scalp. While inside the follicle, the hair cells are alive. However, once they emerge, they are mainly made of dead keratin cells, water, lipids, and proteins. Even though the visible hair on your head isn’t technically “alive,” you can make it look smooth, full, and healthy by using deep conditioner. Keeping your hair hydrated helps maintain its outer barrier, which reduces the risk of breakage and damage. Always use conditioner after washing your hair to replenish hydration.

How to get healthy and strong hair

Poor hair health can arise due to a number of factors, including the type of hair care products you are using, your hair washing routine, diet, stress levels, and whether or not you are taking prescription medications. To maintain healthy, strong hair, some practices to avoid include:

• The use of harsh shampoos, particularly those with ammonium lauryl sulfate or sodium lauryl sulfate
• The use of heat styling, such as blow drying, perms, or relaxers
• Brushing your hair
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Low-calorie diets
• Regularly taking blood thinners
• Excessive stress

How to make your hair healthy and long

Maintaining hair health involves practicing good hair care habits. While you can’t make your hair grow faster, keeping it hydrated and preventing breakage can help it look longer, thicker, and fuller. To prevent damage, it’s essential to moisturize with a hydrating conditioner after each wash, steer clear of heat styling, and minimize friction by keeping your hair loose around your face. Tight hairstyles can pull at the hair along the hairline, leading to hair breakage, “flyaways,” and short “baby hairs.”

How to keep hair healthy naturally

In addition to using gentle shampoos and always following up a hair wash with conditioner, a few simple lifestyle changes can naturally help keep your hair healthy. Diet plays a key role in supporting hair health, and eating foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc can help strengthen hair follicles for thicker, healthier-looking hair. Protein-rich foods that promote hair health include lean meats, dairy products, beans, eggs, fish, and poultry. Zinc-rich foods include leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits. Additionally, stress can interfere with the hair growth cycle, causing your hair to grow more slowly. Reducing stress can help improve your hair health.

How to improve scalp health naturally

Good scalp health plays a key role in the appearance of healthy hair. If there’s a buildup of oil, dead skin, or dandruff on the scalp, it can hinder hair growth and make hair look greasy. To naturally improve scalp health, patients should cleanse and hydrate the scalp regularly, but avoid overwashing, as washing too often can cause the scalp to produce excess oils. Once a week, patients can exfoliate the scalp to remove buildup and clear away excess oil and debris. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can boost scalp health; good sources include yogurt, flaxseeds, cottage cheese, and cereal.

How to make your hair healthy again at home

Hair health begins with lifestyle changes, and patients can maintain hair health at home with these healthy hair tips:

• Determine your hair type and find hair care products that address your specific hair type needs.
• Shampoo your hair only as regularly as needed for your hair type. Straight hair may require more washing, while curly hair does not need to be washed as regularly.
• Always use conditioner after shampooing your hair.
• Wrap your hair in a cotton t-shirt to absorb moisture after a shower rather than rubbing it dry with a towel.
• Avoid heat styling whenever possible, and allow your hair to air dry.
• Avoid repeated use of tight hairstyles (ponytails, buns, cornrows), as they can pull on the hair, causing damage and thinning along the hairline.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc.
• Decrease stress whenever possible.

How to keep your hair healthy for men

Hair health is important for people of all genders, and many of the steps to maintain healthy hair are the same for both genders. The first step in maintaining healthy hair for men is understanding your hair type, which will help determine how often you should wash your hair, the best type of conditioner for you, and the kind of product to use after showering. While it might seem easier to use a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner, these products may contain harsh ingredients that can damage your hair or lack sufficient hydrating properties. If you’re unsure where to start in keeping your hair healthy, schedule a consultation with expert, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, who can discuss your aesthetic goals and identify the hair care routine that best suits your needs.

Why healthy hair is important

For many people, hair is a defining characteristic of who they are. It is often one of the first things people notice and can significantly influence how they feel about their appearance. Practicing good hair health is essential to prevent breakage and damage to the hair follicles. With sufficient damage, hair thinning can occur, which can be distressing. Healthy hair care doesn’t have to be expensive or overly complicated. Instead, a good hair care routine starts with small changes in habits, such as always conditioning after washing, avoiding heat styling when possible, wrapping the hair to absorb excess moisture instead of rubbing it dry, and maintaining a balanced diet.

How to promote healthy hair growth today

Healthy, vibrant hair begins with consistency. Choosing the right products for your hair type, reducing heat styling, conditioning regularly, and protecting your scalp are essential for maintaining long-term hair health. For many, small changes to their daily routine—such as conditioning after every wash, avoiding tight hairstyles, and eating a balanced diet—can help prevent breakage and boost overall strength and shine. However, for those dealing with dryness, thinning, or hair loss, seeking professional advice can make a significant difference.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience helping her patients achieve healthy hair and radiant skin. At her private dermatology practice on the Upper East Side of NYC, Dr. Green adopts a holistic, less-is-more approach, offering personalized hair care routines and advanced non-invasive treatments for hair restoration, such as PRP treatments, HydraFacial Keravive, and topical or oral medications when needed. Recognized by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, and New York Magazine as one of New York’s top dermatologists, Dr. Green works closely with each patient to develop a customized plan that encourages strong, healthy, and beautiful hair. To learn more about achieving and maintaining healthy hair, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green by calling 212-535-3088 or contacting us online today.