Hair care can be tricky to stay on top of, especially with lots of contradictory advice out there.
One confusing issue is how often you should actually wash your hair, with some saying it is healthier to leave longer period between washes.
A leading UK hair transplant specialist is helping to clear things up. Dr Matee Rajput suggests that there is actually a correct answer when it comes to the magic number of times your barnet should be washed each week. Surgeon to a host of stars, such as Love Island winner Jack Fincham, Geordie Shore original Gaz Beadle and Joe Swash, Dr Rajput shared his expertise on some common hair care dilemmas.
The doctor explained that despite some shampoos advising daily use for the best results, this is not always the best thing to do.
He said: "You shouldn't be washing your hair too frequently. I'd recommend no more than three to four times a week, so essentially every other day. You need your own body and hair to secrete oils and fluids which lubricate the hair, and if you keep washing with soapy shampoos, it can prevent that. In the long run, it can lead to damage in your hair and scalp."
This is because washing your hair too often can strip your locks of natural oils, with Dr Matee recommending that you give your hair a little something extra.
He said: "If you're using shampoo often, I'd recommend using a natural moisturiser such as argan or coconut oil."
The doctor went on to discuss the best way to dry your hair after washing, touching on whether or not air-drying naturally is the best way to prevent damage.
According to the hair expert, it is best to stay away from heated tools as much as possible in order to keep hair as healthy and full.
He explained: "You should let your hair naturally dry. My own hair regimen is, after I wash my hair, I just let the water fall off itself rather than using a towel straight away.
"Then I just gently dab with a towel, and the result is that less hair follicles fall out."
Grey hair is a common sign of ageing. However, the change in colour has also been linked to stress. Dr Matee has seen this happen, including in himself: "Stress can affect your hormone levels, which can in turn affect skin cells and hair cells.
"It's happened to me over the last couple of years, through Covid and a personally stressful time for me. I’ve got hair at the top of my head that’s all gone grey."
After using your favourite shampoo for a while, you may have noticed the results becoming a little less satisfying. However, you are not alone. The doctor says this is actually pretty common - Dr Rajput has found certain brands that he used to love would start making his scalp flaky and itchy again after just three or four months of use.
To help tackle this problem, he urges that mindfulness is important when picking a shampoo.
He said: "What I realised works really effectively for me now is using shampoos that are ammonia, sulfate and paraben free as they’re easier on your scalp.
"I treat skin conditions as hair transplant surgeon and also as a GP. Scalp health is one of the most important things - if your scalp is healthy, you can have healthy hair."
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Many of us are in the habit of tying our hair up into a ponytail or a bun to get it out of the way while working or exercising, as well as helping to hide the grease before hair wash day.
Dr Matee says that while your tying your hair up does not necessarily lead to damage, there are some things that may result in breakage or even hair loss.
He said: "Putting stress on your hair can cause damage. For example, people who have extensions, that can affect it.
He also explained that braiding can cause damage, as well as wearing headwear and turbans for religious reasons as they can stress and pull the hair.
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