Hair Care Facts & Myths: Expert Advice by Dr. Soni Nanda
Stop trusting every reel you see. Here, I break down the real science behind hair fall, scalp health, and why your kitchen might have better solutions than that expensive serum.
Are anti-dandruff shampoos useful? In this video, I explain their pros and cons, how often to shampoo, and the right way to use oil to soothe an itchy, dry scalp without making it greasy.
A common myth in India is that washing hair daily is bad for it. I debunk this and explain why modern lifestyles, pollution, and workouts actually make frequent washing with a mild shampoo necessary for a healthy scalp.
Biotin is often seen as a magic cure for hair fall, but it is not. I share three important facts about biotin, including the correct dosage and why a combination of vitamins is needed for healthy hair.
Should you take biotin supplements or get a hair spa for hair fall? I discuss the truth about biotin, which is easily available in our diet, and explain how treatments like "Hair Botox" can actually damage your hair in the long run.
If you are getting blood tests for hair fall, be careful. I explain how taking biotin supplements can give falsely raised thyroid levels. It is important to stop all supplements a week before your tests for accurate results.
Monsoon is a time when hair care becomes crucial. The most important rule is to keep your scalp clean. I recommend using a mild, sulfate-free shampoo daily, especially after a workout, to maintain healthy and full hair.
Many people worry that frequent shampooing will cause their hair dye to fade. I clarify that permanent dyes are not affected by shampoo. The color only changes as your hair regrows from the root.
A common myth is that dandruff is caused by dryness and needs oiling. I explain that dandruff is actually linked to excess oil production, which is why it is more common in younger people with oily skin.
For those with an oily scalp but dry hair, managing dandruff can be tricky. I recommend using a mild shampoo, conditioners, and adding Omega-3 to your diet to balance oil production and hydrate your hair.
Myth: Sleeping with open hair makes it grow faster. Fact: It actually leads to tangling and breakage. I advise tying your hair loosely before bed to protect it from hair fall.
About Dr. Nanda's Corner: Hair Care Facts & Myths
Many of you think frequent washing causes hair fall, but in our humid, polluted environment, a dirty scalp is a bigger culprit. If you work out or sweat, shampooing three to five times a week is actually necessary, not optional. The key isn't just the shampoo, but ensuring you aren't stripping your roots while keeping the scalp clean.
Forget Google, Let’s Talk Reality
I see it all the time—patients coming in with widespread thinning because they followed a 'viral hack' instead of treating the underlying cause. Hair fall is rarely just bad luck; it is usually a signal of stress, nutritional gaps, or hormonal imbalances like PCOS.
Common Myths I Hear Every Day
- The Biotin Trap: Biotin is portrayed as a miracle cure. It is not. Most over-the-counter doses (like 10mg) are far higher than what you actually need. Hair health requires a complex mix of vitamins, not just one supplement, and taking excessive biotin can even mess up your thyroid blood test results.
- Oiling vs. Dandruff: If you have an oily scalp, oiling it to 'remove dryness' is counterproductive. Dandruff is often linked to excess oil production, not a lack of it. You need a mild, scalp-balancing wash, not more oil.
- The 'Daily Wash' Fear: Washing your hair doesn't weaken the roots, provided you use a mild, sulfate-free cleanser. If you are active, you must wash the sweat away to prevent clogging the follicles.
- Minoxidil Maintenance: Please do not stop Minoxidil abruptly. You have to taper off slowly, or you risk a sudden, heavy shed that negates all your hard work.
My Approach
My job is to stop you from wasting time on fads. Whether it is an itchy scalp, premature greying, or significant shedding, we start with a dermoscopic analysis. We look at your diet, your sleep, and your lifestyle first. You don't always need an injection or a treatment; sometimes, you just need a better habit. Let's get to the root of your concern properly.
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