NEW YORK, July 9 – Dr. Charles Puza, a Harvard-educated dermatologist based in New York City, has shared his top recommendations for maintaining healthy hair. In a recent TikTok video, Puza highlighted the importance of rotating shampoos, using a blow-dryer on a cold setting, and incorporating hair masks into your routine.
Rotate Your Shampoos
Dr. Puza advises against using the same shampoo daily. Hair care needs can change, requiring different products for optimal health. He suggests a technique called hair cycling, which involves rotating shampoos to address various scalp conditions. For example, a ketoconazole shampoo can target Malassezia fungus, a primary cause of dandruff, while a selenium and salicylic acid shampoo can reduce both visible and invisible dandruff. “Even background dandruff is bad for your hair,” Puza noted. Healthline Media’s clinical adviser, Dr. Meredith Goodwin, supports this method, explaining that changing shampoo and conditioner combinations can improve the feel of hair by preventing buildup on the hair shaft.
Avoid Air-Drying Your Hair
Contrary to popular belief, Puza does not recommend air-drying hair. He explains that allowing hair to remain wet for too long can be damaging. Instead, he advocates using a blow-dryer on the cold setting, which he considers the healthiest way to dry damp hair. Additionally, Puza advises against brushing wet hair, as it can cause strands to stretch and break. Bronwen Robinson, a senior hair stylist from Suite Caroline in Soho, compared wet hair to “wet spaghetti,” recommending the use of a natural fiber brush to detangle hair before it gets wet.
Incorporate Leave-In Conditioner
For the best hair care, Puza suggests a weekly ritual of using leave-in conditioner. He compares this to giving skin a peel and exfoliation, highlighting the benefits of concentrated TLC for hair. “These hair masks are a game-changer,” Puza stated.
By following these tips, you can improve the health and appearance of your hair, ensuring it remains strong and vibrant.
