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Healthy, strong hair doesn’t just come from good genetics—it also comes from consistent, scientifically sound haircare habits. But many people follow advice from social media or hearsay, which sometimes includes harmful steps. In this blog, we’ll walk you through dermatologist-approved green flags (good habits you should follow) and red flags (practices to avoid). Use this as your reference to build a haircare routine that supports scalp health and hair growth.
Why Haircare Habits Matter
Your scalp is skin too, and hair follicles depend on a balanced environment—adequate hydration, minimal inflammation, good blood circulation, and proper nutrition. Poor habits (overwashing, harsh chemicals, tight hairstyles) can cause damage, breakage, hair fall, or scalp issues like irritation or dandruff.
As specialists in dermatology and trichology, at Dr. Hanan Dermatology Speciality and Trichology Clinic, we see many patients whose hair loss or scalp problems are worsened by bad habits. The good news: small changes—making more green flag habits—can make a big difference.
Green Flag Haircare Habits (What Dermatologists Approve)
These are safe, beneficial habits that support hair health for most people
Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo
Harsh sulfates strip natural oils, making the scalp dry and triggering overcompensation by sebaceous glands. Use mild cleansers or shampoos with gentle surfactants. For example, shampoos containing cocamidopropyl betaine or sodium lauryl sulfoacetate are milder.
Wash frequency suited to scalp type
Not everyone needs daily shampooing. For those with oily scalps, washing more often is okay; for dry or color-treated hair, washing 2–3 times per week may suffice. Let your scalp’s oil balance guide you.
Condition the mid-lengths to ends
Apply conditioner only from the mid-shaft downward—not on the scalp—so that the scalp isn’t weighed down or clogged. Use ingredients like panthenol, hydrolyzed keratin, and natural oils in conditioners.
Pat dry, don’t rub
Vigorous towel rubbing causes mechanical damage. Instead, gently pat or squeeze excess water, or use a microfiber towel or soft cotton T-shirt.
Use wide-tooth combs or detangling brushes
Especially when hair is wet, use a wide-tooth comb or specially designed detangler to minimize breakage.
Protect hair from heat & UV damage
- Use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying, straightening, or curling.
- Keep styling tools at moderate temperature (below ~180 °C).
- During sun exposure, protect hair with hats or use hair sunscreen or UV-protectant sprays.
Learn more about protection in our blog on Hair Fall While Combing: Best Ways to Minimize It
Scalp massage & circulation support
Gently massaging the scalp for a few minutes daily improves blood flow. Some dermatologists recommend low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or microneedling (under clinical supervision) to boost follicle health.
Scalp massages improve circulation. Some clinical solutions like PRP therapy also stimulate hair regrowth (read more about PRP Treatment for Hair Loss in Chennai
Balanced diet and hydration
Hair follicles need nutrients. Ensure adequate protein, iron, zinc, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, D. Drink enough water. Poor nutrition often shows up as weak, dull hair.
Regular trimming
Trimming split ends every few months prevents further splitting that can travel up the hair shaft. This doesn’t grow hair faster, but helps hair look healthier.
Consistent scalp care routine
If you have dandruff, sensitivity, or scalp conditions, use medicated shampoos or treatments as prescribed. Follow dermatologist advice rather than random over-the-counter aggressive treatments.
Red Flag Haircare Habits (What Dermatologists Warn Against)
These are common but harmful practices that many people do—often without realizing the damage they cause.
Daily use of harsh chemical treatments
Bleaches, strong perms, repeated coloring can damage hair structure and scalp barrier. Doing these frequently weakens hair and increases breakage or permanent hair loss.
Over-washing or frequent shampooing with harsh surfactants
This strips natural oils and damages the scalp barrier, causing compensatory oiliness, dryness, or irritation.
Applying conditioner or heavy product directly to the scalp
This can block follicle openings, trap debris, and lead to clogged pores or milia, especially in sensitive scalps.
Tight hairstyles & constant traction
Styles like braids, tight ponytails or buns, weaves, or extensions create strain on hair follicles, causing traction alopecia over time.
Sleeping without hair protection
Sleeping on rough cotton pillowcases or without wrapping/covering your hair can cause friction, leading to breakage.
Heat styling at very high temperatures
Using flat irons or curling wands at extreme heat repeatedly damages keratin bonds and leads to brittle, broken hair.
Ignoring scalp symptoms
Itchiness, flaking, pain, or tender spots might indicate scalp disease—ignoring them or self-medicating can worsen the condition.
Use of generic or aggressive products without guidance
Random use of strong acids, bleaching agents, or unknown serums can lead to chemical burns, pigmentation, or hair loss.
Skipping sun protection for hair
UV radiation damages hair protein, fades color, and weakens structure. Scalp and hair UV protection is needed.
Poor diet, dehydration, over-stress
Chronic stress, nutrient deficiency, dehydration, smoking all negatively influence hair health.
Tips for Building a Dermatologist-Approved Haircare Routine
- Identify your scalp type (oily, dry, normal, combination)
- Choose gentle products with fewer irritants
- Start with the green flag habits above and gradually eliminate red flag ones
- Monitor your hair over 2–3 months and adjust
- If persistent hair fall, thinning or scalp changes occur, consult a dermatologist or trichologist
At Dr. Hanan Dermatology Speciality and Trichology Clinic, we evaluate scalp condition, hair density, and history before recommending a personalized regime.
Why Dr. Hanan Clinic Is Trusted for Haircare
When patients look for the best dermatologist in Chennai or the top hair transplant clinic in Chennai, they often find us. Our reputation comes from:
- Expert dermatologists and trichologists who diagnose and treat scalp/hair issues scientifically
- Ethical, evidence-based treatments that protect scalp health
- Genuine patient reviews (our clients often share how adopting green flag habits after their treatments improved results)
- Seamless integration between dermatology (skin) and trichology (hair) care
Final Thoughts
Building a haircare routine based on dermatologist-approved habits strengthens your hair, protects your scalp, and enhances the results of any medical treatment you may undergo. Always look for green flag habits and be aware of the red flags.
If you’re noticing persistent hair fall, thinning, or scalp issues, your best step is to consult a specialist. At Dr. Hanan Dermatology Speciality and Trichology Clinic, we combine medical expertise with patient education – helping you care for your hair every day.
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