Hair Care
Evidence-based hair health information from dermatologists and the American Academy of Dermatology.
Hair Loss
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
- It is normal to lose 50-100 hairs per day according to the AAD
- Hair loss in women can be caused by heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or aging
- Female pattern hair loss affects approximately 30 million women in the United States
- Postpartum hair loss typically occurs 2-4 months after giving birth and is temporary
- Thyroid disorders are a common medical cause of hair loss and are treatable
- A dermatologist can help determine the cause of hair loss and appropriate treatments
Damage Prevention
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Heat styling tools should be used on the lowest effective setting
Limiting chemical services (coloring, perming, relaxing) can reduce damage
Wet hair is more vulnerable to damage; gentle handling is recommended
The AAD recommends using a conditioner after every shampoo
Tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia, a form of hair loss
Protecting hair from the sun can prevent dryness and color fading
Hair Types
Understanding your hair type can help guide product and care choices.
Straight Hair
No natural curl pattern, can appear flat or oily quickly
May need more frequent washing; lightweight products prevent weighing down
Wavy Hair
S-shaped pattern, between straight and curly
Can be prone to frizz; may benefit from humidity protection
Curly Hair
Defined curl pattern, can be prone to dryness
Often benefits from moisture-rich products and less frequent washing
Coily/Kinky Hair
Tight curl pattern, most fragile hair type
The AAD notes this hair type often needs deep conditioning and gentle handling
Scalp Health
Source: American Academy of Dermatology
Dandruff is a common condition that can usually be controlled with medicated shampoos
Seborrheic dermatitis is a more severe form that may require prescription treatment
Scalp psoriasis affects about 50% of people with psoriasis
A dermatologist can distinguish between various scalp conditions
Washing frequency depends on hair type and how oily the scalp gets
The AAD notes that African American women may benefit from less frequent washing
Color-Treated Hair
Source: Cleveland Clinic
Hair color works by opening the hair cuticle to deposit or remove pigment
Color-treated hair is more porous and may need extra conditioning
Waiting 48-72 hours after coloring before washing can help color last longer
UV exposure can cause color to fade; protective products are available
Swimming in chlorinated water can affect hair color
At-home color contains the same basic ingredients as salon color at different concentrations
Nutrition and Hair Health
Source: American Academy of Dermatology / Cleveland Clinic
- •Protein is essential for hair growth as hair is primarily made of protein (keratin)
- •Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, particularly in women
- •Biotin deficiency can cause hair loss, though true deficiency is rare
- •The AAD states that biotin supplements only help if there is an actual deficiency
- •A balanced diet generally provides nutrients needed for healthy hair
- •Extreme dieting or rapid weight loss can trigger temporary hair shedding
Note: Hair loss can have many causes. If you're experiencing significant hair loss, a dermatologist can help identify the cause and discuss appropriate treatments. This information is educational and not a substitute for professional evaluation.