Top tips for smooth and shiny hair

Washington, July 15 (ANI): Dermatologists have revealed that how you wash your hair and the products you use could go a long way in maintaining smooth and shiny hair.

Board-certified dermatologist Zoe D. Draelos, MD, FAAD, has also given tips on how to keep your crowing glory healthy and beautiful.

"When shampooing, concentrate on cleaning primarily the scalp, rather than the entire length of the hair, as washing only your hair can create flyaway hair that is dull and coarse," Draelos said.

"When using a conditioner, the recommendation is different. Conditioners should only be used on the tips of the hair and not on the scalp or length of the hair since conditioners can make fine hair look limp," Draelos said.

To maintain healthy hair, firstly Dr. Draelos recommends people to wash oily hair more frequently. How often you wash your hair should be based on how much oil your scalp produces.

Secondly, use conditioner after every shampoo unless you use a "2-in-1" shampoo, which cleans and conditions hair. Using a conditioner can significantly improve the look of damaged or weathered hair by increasing shine, decreasing static electricity, improving strength and offering some protection from harmful UV rays.

Thirdly, choose a shampoo and conditioner formulated specifically for your hair type. For example, if you colour your hair, use a shampoo designed for color-treated hair. If your hair is damaged or chemically treated, consider a "2-in-1" shampoo.

Regardless of cost, many shampoo and conditioner brands provide the same benefits.

Lastly, protect hair when swimming. Protect your hair from the damaging effects of chlorine by wetting and conditioning your hair before swimming. Wear a tight-fitting swim cap and use a specially formulated swimmers shampoo and deep conditioner after swimming to replace lost moisture.

"A dermatologist can address any questions or concerns that you have about caring for your hair," Dr. Draelos.

"Be sure to see a dermatologist if you are experiencing unexplained hair loss as this may be a sign of a serious medical condition," Draelos added.

These steps have been demonstrated in 'Tips for Healthy Hair', a video posted to the Academy website and the Academy's YouTube channel. (ANI)