Healthy Hair Skin and Nails
Healthy habits create healthy results.
Throughout my career I think the number one question I get asked is about my recommendations/thoughts on supplements for growing hair faster or thicker. Before I give my opinion on this subject, I would like to make it clear that this is just my opinion, and I am not a medical professional. I am a hairstylist with years of hands-on experience seeing all sorts of hair/scalp conditions.
Now let's get into it!
Based on my personal experience with having tried a few beauty (hair, skin, nails, biotin, collagen powders, ect.) supplements consistently; I feel that most of the time it's a waste of money. While there are a few products that may help some people, it may not help others due to other underlying issues. Which is why I do believe talking to your doctor before starting to take different supplements is the best approach. Personally, I do believe healthy choices make a big difference on what your hair, skin, and nails look like. If you have been concerned about hair loss, breakage, or scalp conditions feel free to schedule a consultation. I am happy to look at your hair and scalp to see if it is something that you can make a few lifestyle changes for or if you should consider consulting with a dermatologist or your doctor.
What to expect during the consultation:
I will have some questions for us to discuss that will lead us to figuring out the best approach to plan for these improvements. I may take a photo so you can share it with your doctor or monitor changes.
Questions you can expect:
What do you feel could be improved with your hair?
Do you want to grow your hair longer?
Are you wanting to strengthen your hair prior to making a color change to avoid damage?
Do you want your hair to be fuller?
Is your hair breaking?
Do you have excessive split ends?
Are you excessively shedding?
Is the shedding concentrated in any specific areas?
Are your nails brittle, peeling, discolored, or weak?
Has your skin changed? Is it drier or oily?
Has your scalp been flaky, dry, or irritated?
Have you been under excessive stress?
Have you had any dietary changes?
Have you changed or added medications (including birth control)?
Are you experiencing any stages of menopause?
Have you had surgery?
Depending on what your needs are, my suggestions are going to be the following:
A.) Treating the physical damage by cutting the damage off and doing treatments to restore moisture or aid in strengthening the bond of the hair. Using heat protectants for styling, soft satin/silk scrunchies, sleeping with hair wrapped or sleeping on a satin/silk pillowcase.
B.) Make an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist. It is peace of mind to have bloodwork done to see if there is anything going on such as a vitamin deficiency, hormonal imbalances, or thyroid issues. It is not always the case but it is best to have a medical professional rule things out and help you decide the best approach if you do want to try a supplement.
C.) Try incorporating healthy lifestyle habits into your daily routine.
You are what you eat. Eat more unprocessed veggies, fruits, healthy proteins, and whole grains. They are filled with minerals, vitamins, and healthy fats.
Hydrate! Drink more water or eat water-rich food like cucumbers, lettuce, or watermelon.
Breathwork is great for reducing stress and oxygenating your blood. It can be as simple as taking time in your day to focus on taking a few deep breaths.
Stretching, walking, running, dancing, or any other type of activity that helps with your blood circulation will aid in getting nutrients and oxygen-rich blood to your scalp, skin and so on.
I hope this helps give you some insight on what can be done to have a healthier beauty routine. The next post will elaborate on what I do to keep active and reduce stress on my body and mind.