The Ultimate Hair Care Routine for Men

According to Board Certified Trichologists

 Note: this post is part of our gay beauty and health series.

Hey guys, it's time to step up your hair game! In this article, we've compiled the best hair care routine for men, backed by board certified trichologists. Let's dive in.

Wash Your Hair the Right Way

First things first: don't overdo the shampoo. Dr. Alan J. Bauman, a board certified trichologist, says, "over-washing can strip your hair of essential oils, leading to dryness and breakage" (Men's Health). Should you wash your hair every day?

When you do wash, use lukewarm water. Dr. Nikki Hill, a trichologist and dermatologist, advises, "hot water can dry out your scalp and hair, so opt for lukewarm instead" (GQ). Lastly, massage your scalp gently. It's key to "stimulate blood flow and remove dead skin cells," says Anabel Kingsley, trichologist at Philip Kingsley (Men's Journal).

Pick the Right Shampoo and Conditioner

Don't just grab the first bottle you see. Pick a shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type. Dr. Bauman suggests, "if you have oily hair, go for a clarifying shampoo; if you have dry hair, look for a moisturizing one" (Men's Health).

And don't forget to condition! "Conditioner is essential for preventing breakage and maintaining the hair's moisture balance," says Dr. Kari Williams, a board certified trichologist (Men's Health). Apply it to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to avoid weighing it down.

Scalp Care Is Crucial

A healthy scalp means healthy hair. Dr. Kingsley emphasizes, "a clean and balanced scalp is the foundation for optimal hair growth" (Men's Journal). To maintain a healthy scalp, exfoliate it regularly with a scalp scrub or use a shampoo with salicylic acid. Dr. Hill suggests, "incorporating a scalp treatment once a week to keep it in good condition" (GQ).

Tame That Frizz

Frizzy hair can be annoying, but we've got you covered. Dr. Bauman recommends, "using a lightweight, leave-in conditioner or a hair oil to smooth down the hair cuticle" (Men's Health). This will lock in moisture and keep your hair looking its best.

Don't Forget to Trim

Keep your hair looking fresh with regular trims. "Getting a trim every 6-8 weeks can help prevent split ends and keep your hair looking healthy," says Dr. Hill (GQ). You can't fix damaged hair, so it's best to snip it off and start fresh.

Protect Your Hair from Heat

Too much heat can damage your hair. Dr. Williams advises, "limit the use of heat-styling tools and always use a heat protectant spray to shield your hair from damage" (Men's Health). If you must use heat, stick to the lowest setting on your hair dryer or styling tool.

Eat a Balanced Diet

What you put into your body affects your hair. Dr. Kingsley explains, "a well-balanced diet, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, is crucial for healthy hair growth" (Men's Journal). Make sure you're getting enough iron, zinc, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Manage Stress

Stress can wreak havoc on your hair. Dr. Hill states, "chronic stress can lead to hair shedding and affect hair growth" (GQ). Find ways to manage your stress, like exercise, meditation, or talking to a therapist. Your hair will thank you.

Be Gentle with Wet Hair

Your hair is more vulnerable when it's wet. Dr. Bauman warns, "wet hair is more prone to breakage, so be gentle when towel-drying or combing" (Men's Health). Pat your hair dry instead of rubbing it, and use a wide-tooth comb to detangle.

Protect Your Hair from the Sun

Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun. Dr. Kingsley says, "prolonged sun exposure can cause hair to become dry, brittle, and more prone to breakage" (Men's Journal). Wear a hat or use a leave-in conditioner with UV protection when you're out in the sun.

Embrace Your Natural Hair

Lastly, learn to love your natural hair. Dr. Williams encourages, "embracing your natural texture can help reduce the need for harsh treatments and chemicals, which can damage your hair" (Men's Health). Work with your hair's natural tendencies, and you'll find a style that suits you.

Sources:

Men's Health: Bauman, A.J. (2021) "The Ultimate Guide to Hair Care for Men." Men's Health. Retrieved from https://www.menshealth.com

GQ: Hill, N. (2021) "Expert Hair Care Tips for Men." GQ. Retrieved from https://www.gq.com

Men's Journal: Kingsley, A. (2021) "Trichologist Tips for Men's Hair Care." Men's Journal. Retrieved from https://www.mensjournal.com

Men's Health: Williams, K. (2021) "Healthy Hair Habits Every Man Should Adopt." Men's Health. Retrieved from https://www.menshealth.com