# Hair care and scalp health expert recommendations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/hair-care-and-scalp-health-expert-recommendations
> Updated: 2026-09-09T03:12:50.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

Experts and dermatologists have provided guidance on hair and scalp maintenance to optimize hair health and prevent damage.

Initial insights suggest that using hair dryers may be safer than air-drying, as wet hair is more fragile and prone to absorbing environmental pollutants. Additionally, experts noted that daily shampooing can be counterproductive by irritating the scalp and increasing sebum production, leading to the popularity of the ‘low-poo’ trend.

To prevent hair from becoming dull, brittle, or excessively dry, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) advises concentrating shampoo on the scalp rather than the hair length. Because the scalp is where sebum, sweat, dead skin cells, and product residue accumulate, professionals suggest massaging the area with fingertips—avoiding nails—to achieve hygiene without damaging fragile strands. During rinsing, the foam flowing from the scalp is considered sufficient to clean the mid-lengths and ends without the mechanical friction that causes cuticle damage and split ends.

Further techniques to combat dryness include ‘reverse washing,’ a method where a hair mask or conditioner is applied at the beginning of the washing process before using shampoo. Pharmacist Helena Rodero recommends using a mask once or twice a week, or prior to shampooing if hair feels particularly dry. Stylist Wilma Sortino notes this routine is ideal for frequent washers and those prone to split ends. Meanwhile, stylist Luciano Cañete warns that oils should be applied sparingly to the lengths of the hair, as overusing them can weigh hair down and complicate the washing process.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Hair experts recommend reverse washing to prevent dryness

Hair experts recommend reverse washing—applying conditioner or masks before shampoo—to improve hydration and prevent breakage in dry or brittle hair.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hair-experts-recommend-reverse-washing-to-prevent-dryness

### 2026-09-05: Dermatologists recommend scalp-focused shampooing to prevent hair dryness

To prevent hair dryness, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends concentrating shampoo on the scalp and allowing the rinse to clean the lengths, avoiding excessive friction on fragile ends.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dermatologists-recommend-scalp-focused-shampooing-to-prevent-hair-dryness

### 2026-08-25: Hair care experts discuss drying techniques and washing frequency

Experts suggest using hair dryers to protect fragile wet hair and advise against daily shampooing to prevent scalp irritation and excessive sebum production.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/hair-care-experts-discuss-drying-techniques-and-washing-frequency

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Cite as: Hair care and scalp health expert recommendations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/hair-care-and-scalp-health-expert-recommendations