Science-Backed Hair and Nail Care Advice
Stop using internet hacks that damage your body. From proper shampooing techniques to real foot care, here is how you manage your hair and nails using medical facts, not viral trends.
Your nails are an extension of your skin and require proper care. I share healthy nail grooming habits, such as cutting nails straight across, not cutting your cuticles, and moisturizing them. If you see any discoloration, consult a dermatologist as it could be a sign of a fungal infection.
This graphic provides simple do's and don'ts for managing and preventing fungal infections. Maintaining good hygiene, keeping the area dry, and avoiding sharing personal items are key steps to keep your skin healthy.
If you're too lazy for complicated foot care routines for cracked heels, I have a simple tip. Scrub your feet daily while showering and switch from open slippers to wearing shoes for regular use. This simple change can make a big difference.
How should you shampoo your hair for the best results? I explain the correct technique, including using lukewarm water, focusing the shampoo on your scalp, and how frequently you should wash based on your hair type. Proper shampooing is the first step to healthy hair.
How do you choose the right shampoo for your hair type? I break down the different types of detergents found in shampoos, from strong ones like SLS for oily hair to milder options for dry or color-treated hair. Check your ingredient list to see if your shampoo is right for you.
Do you ever read the ingredient list on your shampoo bottle? In this video, I introduce my series on hair care, starting with how to select the right shampoo. Understanding the ingredients is the first step to addressing your hair concerns effectively.
About Hair, Nail & Body Care
Stop scrubbing your hair strands with shampoo. Focus the product only on your scalp; the lather is enough to clean the lengths. Also, swap that boiling water for lukewarm—your hair strands are fragile, and high heat just strips your hair of essential moisture, leading to unnecessary breakage.
Shampoo Selection and Usage
Many people pick products based on marketing. I look at the detergent. If you have oily hair or use styling products like gel and hair spray, you need stronger detergents like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS). However, for normal-to-dry hair, SLS is often too harsh.
Common culprits to avoid:
- SLS: Dries out hair.
- Mineral Oil: Sounds fancy, does nothing for hair.
- Formaldehyde (often listed as Quaternium-15): A preservative you do not want.
- Short-chain alcohols (e.g., Isopropyl alcohol): These strip moisture instantly.
Always check your ingredient list. If your shampoo contains these, it might be the reason your hair feels brittle.
Nail Grooming Facts
Your nails are an extension of your skin. Stop cutting your cuticles—they are there to prevent pathogens from entering your body. Cut your nails straight across to prevent ingrown nails, and avoid filing the surface, which thins the nail plate. If you notice discoloration, do not wait for it to fade; it could be a fungal infection that requires specific treatment.
Simple Foot Care
Don't waste time on expensive, ineffective foot creams if you aren't doing the basics. Scrub your feet daily in the shower and switch from open slippers to shoes. This simple mechanical change often does more to heal cracked heels than any fancy cream ever will.
Vandhana Manoharan
I'm Dr. Vandhana. I see too many patients coming to my clinic with hair and skin damage because they followed a viral YouTube hack. My approach is simple: we look at the science, audit your current products, and build a routine that actually works for your body, not the internet.
Need specific advice for your concern?
Search for dermatological solutions below.
More from Dermatology Consultation by Vandhana Manoharan