Guys, let’s talk about hair. It might not be the first topic on your mind, but a healthy head of hair can do wonders for your confidence.
The British Association of Dermatologists found that 50% of men over the age of 50 experience some degree of hair loss.
The good news? You don’t need a complicated routine or a shelf full of expensive products to keep your hair in good nick.
With a few simple tweaks to your habits, you can keep your hair strong, manageable, and looking its best. So, ditch the confusion and dive into this guide – it’ll equip you with the knowledge to achieve that healthy mane you deserve.
Less is more when it comes to washing
Did you know that over-washing can actually damage your hair? Frequent shampooing strips your scalp of its natural oils, which are essential for keeping hair hydrated and healthy. Aim to wash your hair every other day – or adjust based on your hair type. If you have particularly oily hair, you might need to wash more frequently. Conversely, dry hair benefits from less frequent washing.
When you do shampoo, choose a gentle, sulphate-free formula. Sulphates are cleansing agents that can be harsh on the scalp and hair, leading to dryness and irritation. Look for shampoos that are specifically designed for men’s hair – they often address concerns like dandruff and oiliness.
Conditioning is key
Conditioner isn’t just for women! It’s an essential part of any hair care routine. Conditioner replenishes moisture lost during shampooing, making your hair softer, smoother, and easier to manage. This is especially important for those with thicker or curly hair, which tends to be drier.
Here’s the key: apply conditioner to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair, focusing on areas prone to dryness. Avoid the roots, as this can make your hair look greasy. Let the conditioner sit for a minute or two before rinsing thoroughly with cool water.
Style with care
Styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons might be required to achieve the perfect look. However, the high heat can harm your hair, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Here are some tips to limit the damage:
- Minimise heat usage: Air drying is always the healthiest option for your hair. If you must use heat styling tools, only do so on dry hair.
- Apply a heat protectant spray: This creates a barrier between your hair and the heat. Look for a spray that offers UV protection as well, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
- Use the right heat settings: Don’t crank the heat up to the max setting. Use the lowest setting that will achieve the desired results.
Schedule regular trims
Split ends are the enemy of healthy hair. They travel up the hair shaft, making your hair look frizzy and unhealthy.
The solution? Regular haircuts! Aim to visit your barber every 4-6 weeks, depending on your hairstyle and hair growth rate. This will keep split ends in check and help maintain your desired style.
Addressing baldness
For many men, baldness is a significant concern that can affect self-esteem and personal image. Understanding the underlying causes of hair loss, which can include genetics and hormonal changes, is crucial for effective management. While hair loss is often inevitable, there are ways to manage and treat it.
Hair thickening sprays are a popular choice for those seeking immediate improvements in appearance. These sprays add volume and density to the hair, providing a fuller look within seconds, although not treating any causes of baldness.
For longer-term solutions, medications such as minoxidil and finasteride have been proven effective in slowing hair loss and promoting regrowth. These should be used under medical guidance to ensure safety and effectiveness.
