When it comes to hair care, it seems everyone has advice to offer—whether it’s applying oils, avoiding daily shampooing, or trimming hair for faster growth. But how much of this advice is actually true?
The world of hair health is filled with myths that can lead to confusion and misguided practices. To clear the air, we turned to Dr. Kalyani Deshmukh, Consultant Dermatologist at Traya, who has seen it all when it comes to hair concerns. From hair loss to dandruff, Dr. Deshmukh shares her expert insights to help separate fact from fiction and guide you toward evidence-based care for healthier hair.
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Dr. Deshmukh explains, “As a dermatologist, I encounter countless patients with concerns about their hair—be it hair loss, thinning, or breakage. However, what often surprises me is the prevalence of misconceptions surrounding hair health. These myths not only cause unnecessary anxiety but can also lead to ineffective treatments or even damage.”
Myth 1: Hair oils can cure hair loss
Coconut oil, castor oil, and other natural remedies are often believed to be miracle cures for hair loss. While these oils can improve hair’s appearance by providing hydration and reducing breakage, they cannot address hair loss caused by underlying medical conditions like hormonal imbalances or genetics. The expert adds, “For effective treatment, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist who may recommend therapies such as minoxidil, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, or other advanced treatments, as per your hair concern.”
Myth 2: Dandruff is caused by a dry scalp
Contrary to popular belief, dandruff is not caused by dryness but is often linked to an overgrowth of a yeast-like fungus called Malassezia. “This condition can cause flaking, itching, and inflammation,” explains Dr. Deshmukh. “Using moisturising products on a dandruff-prone scalp can exacerbate the problem. Instead, opt for anti-dandruff shampoos containing ingredients like ketoconazole, selenium sulphide, or zinc pyrithione to control the condition effectively.”
Myth 3: Frequent haircuts promote faster hair growth
Many people believe that regular trims make hair grow faster, but this isn’t true. “Hair grows from the scalp, not the ends,’ says the dermat. Trimming removes split ends and keeps your hair looking healthy, but it doesn’t influence the rate of growth. Hair growth is largely determined by genetics, diet, and overall scalp health. The expert suggests, “Maintaining a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals is far more impactful than scheduling frequent haircuts.”
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Myth 4: Shampooing daily causes hair loss
It’s a common worry that washing hair daily leads to hair loss. Explaning if it’s a myth or fact, Dr. Deshmukh says, “While excessive shampooing can strip your scalp of natural oils, making your hair dry and brittle, it does not cause hair loss from the roots. The strands you see in the shower are often part of the natural shedding cycle, where losing 50–100 hairs a day is entirely normal. The key is to choose a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo suitable for your hair type and avoid overwashing if your scalp doesn’t produce excess oil.”
Myth 5: Stress causes permanent hair loss
Stress is frequently blamed for hair loss, but it usually triggers temporary conditions like telogen effluvium. The expert adds, “In telogen effluvium, hair enters the resting phase prematurely, leading to shedding that may last for a few months. Once the stressor is resolved, hair growth typically resumes. However, chronic stress can worsen conditions like androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness), which has a genetic basis.”
Myth 6: Wearing hats causes baldness
This persistent myth has no scientific basis. “Hair follicles receive nutrients and oxygen through blood vessels, not from external air. However, wearing tight hats that cause friction or trap excessive sweat might irritate the scalp, so it’s wise to ensure your headwear fits comfortably and is cleaned regularly,” comments Dr. Deshmukh.
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Myth 7: Hair products can repair split ends
Many products claim to repair split ends, but they only offer a temporary fix. The expert says once a strand is split, it cannot be ‘repaired.’ “These products can temporarily seal the split ends to improve the appearance of your hair, but trimming them is the only permanent solution,” she notes.
The Science of healthy hair
Healthy hair begins with a healthy scalp. Conditions like seborrhoeic dermatitis, psoriasis, or scalp infections can interfere with hair growth and quality. Dr. Deshmuk emphasises that maintaining scalp hygiene, eating a nutrient-rich diet, and addressing medical conditions early are critical steps. “Avoid overusing heat styling tools, chemical treatments, and harsh hair products, as these can weaken your hair’s structure.”
