How often do you use those hair gels that come with lots of promises of styling your hair? The beauty market is flooded with products that make tall claims but dermatologists have often pointed out adverse side effects of using hair gels. So how should we use these gels – should we completely stop using them in our hair or should we reduce the use? Is there a special way to use hair gel? Dr. Manasi Shirolikar, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder of online consulting brand drmanasiskin.com spoke to us about this hair styling product.
Hair Gel: To Use It Or Not To Use It
“Hair gels are notorious and have the worst reputation as a contributing factor and cause of hair loss. However, this is both true and false. Hair gels, especially those with alcohol content, can dry out the scalp and hair. Also, product build-up that causes hair gel can block and clog hair follicles on the scalp. Both of these lead to hair breakage and hair loss. Also, a blocked and clogged hair The follicle will also leave no room for new hair to grow,” says Dr. Manasi Shirolikar.
Do’s and Don’ts for Using Hair Gels
Simply put, hair gels can definitely contribute to hair loss. Does this mean that we should stop using hair gel completely? The answer is really no, says Dr. Shirolikar. She further explains how you can continue using hair gels without losing hair:
– Use hair gels with moisturizing ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, olive oil, castor oil, or even shea butter, so your hair doesn’t feel dry
Try using a water-based hair gel or an alcohol-free gel.
– Avoid using gel on your scalp, and instead, use it to style your hair away from your roots, so that there is no product (and thus, product build-up) on your scalp
– Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove any product build-up, and to open up your hair follicles.
– Avoid overuse and layering of your hair gel, especially if you have already used it the previous day. The build-up that it causes will not only lead to hair breakage and hair loss, but also dandruff and flakes.
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Fashion Fads: Don’t Follow Them Blindly
Moreover, as experts point out, genetics, diet and nutrition are also contributing to hair loss and hair loss. If you are experiencing severe hair loss, despite not using hair gels, a visit to a dermatologist, who can investigate the cause in-depth, may be recommended, says Dr. Shirolikar and can suggest better and more effective treatments. She adds, “And, if you’re still using hair gels to style your hair or following the Curly Girl Method, make sure you choose the right one for your hair structure, type, and needs.” Use friendly hair gel, instead of blindly following trends and fads.”