KUCHING: The pursuit of confidence and overall well-being often extends beyond the boundaries of fitness and nutrition.
One aspect that frequently goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in how individuals perceive themselves is the health and appearance of their crowning glory.
In an effort to delve into this intriguing relationship between haircare, self-confidence, and mental well-being, the writer had the privilege of interviewing Ong Chee Luan, a health adviser at Excelife,during an event at a local shopping mall here.
According to him the consequences of neglecting hair and scalp health can extend far beyond the cosmetic realm, potentially leading to mental health issues like depression.
Ong said the younger generations, starting as early as 18 or 20, can be deeply affected by hair issues, leading to disappointment and a loss of confidence in public spaces.
He said this critical connection between haircare, self-esteem, and overall health is frequently overlooked by both professionals and healthcare providers.
“Middle-aged individuals, typically aged 50 and above, may not be as concerned about their hair’s appearance.
“In contrast, younger individuals, especially those still in school, are highly attuned to their hair’s condition.
“The onset of hair loss can be a source of stress, driving them to seek ways to improve their situation, such as altering their hairstyle.
“A full head of healthy, voluminous hair, as opposed to thinning or balding, can profoundly influence their confidence levels, setting them apart from their peers,” said Ong.
He pointed out that oily, dry, and sensitive scalps are among the most prevalent scalp conditions people encounter.
Oily scalps, he added, are particularly common and can often trigger the unwelcome presence of dandruff.
“It’s important to note that dandruff, in essence, is a layer of dead skin.
“While every individual has a degree of dandruff, it’s typically not noticeable unless there is an underlying issue, such as an excessively oily or dry scalp.”
Ong also shared that genetics play a significant role in hair issues, especially in cases of thin hair.
“Those with genetically thin hair tend to have hair follicles that produce just one or two hairs, whereas individuals with normal hair growth patterns may have follicles producing four to five hairs.
“Genetic predisposition for thin hair is closely linked to hormone levels, as testosterone plays a pivotal role in hair growth.
“Stress, on the other hand, may not directly cause hair loss but can lead to hormone imbalances that, in turn, affect hair health.”
He lamented that a widespread challenge in haircare is the lack of knowledge and awareness among individuals.
Many face issues like hair loss or thinner hair without understanding the underlying causes.
Often, he said, individuals may attribute these problems to using the wrong shampoo, unknowingly clogging their hair follicles.
Moreover, the general population is often unaware of the specific nutrients necessary for promoting hair growth and maintaining its health.
As such, he said addressing this knowledge gap is vital to enhancing haircare practices.
“Raising awareness about these critical aspects can lead to better haircare and healthier hair for all,” he stressed.
A common misconception in the world of haircare revolves around bubbles.
Many believe that the more bubbles a shampoo produces, the better it is but Ong highlighted that this notion is far from accurate.
In fact, he said an abundance of bubbles often characterises mass market shampoos.
“For those grappling with hair issues, the path to healthier hair often leads to therapeutic shampoos.
“These specialised products are formulated with fewer chemicals and are typically pricier than their mainstream counterparts.
“The secret lies in the reduced lather—the less foamy, the better. Why? Because those bubbles are indicative of added chemicals, which can be harsh on the hair and scalp.
“When your hair and scalp are unhealthy or sensitive, using an everyday shampoo can exacerbate the problem,” he said.
Ong noted that the same applies to oily scalps.
In such cases, he said the body’s response is often inflammation, and when one cleanse their hair with chemical-laden shampoos, the inflammation can intensify.
“Contrary to popular belief, a surplus of bubbles isn’t a sign of superior cleaning. In reality, opting for a shampoo with fewer bubbles is a wiser choice for maintaining the health and balance of your hair and scalp,” said Ong.
Maintaining lustrous and vibrant hair begins with some fundamental steps, starting with the choice of the right shampoo and treatment products like conditioners.
Ong said it is crucial to select these products thoughtfully, ensuring they suit one’s unique hair and scalp conditions.
Dietary habits also play an essential role in promoting hair health, as they do in addressing various health concerns.
“A balanced diet that avoids oily foods can help reduce inflammation, which is vital for overall well-being.
“Our bodies require a wide spectrum of nutrients to function optimally. When we don’t provide these nutrients in sufficient quantities, our body prioritises their distribution.
“Vital organs such as the brain, heart, and liver receive the nutrients first, leaving less essential parts like hair to fend for themselves,” he said.
Hence, maintaining a proper nutrient intake is crucial for healthy hair.
Additionally, he said establishing a good haircare routine is equally important, and this regimen should be tailored to one’s specific hair and scalp type.
For example, he said, those with oily scalps should use a shampoo that doesn’t cause itching or redness within 24-48 hours after use.
Conversely, individuals with sensitive scalps should opt for a shampoo that doesn’t leave a burning sensation or dryness.
Ong asserted that the frequency of hair washing depends on various factors.
“For indoor individuals, washing every two days may suffice, while outdoor activities might require daily washing.
“It’s essential to choose the right shampoo to avoid over-cleaning and stripping the hair of its natural oils.
“Notably, certain shampoos designed for mass-market consumption may be strong cleaning agents.
“While they serve their purpose, they may strip away not only dirt but also the essential components of healthy hair,” he added.
This is why some shampoos can cost more but come in smaller quantities, as they contain more natural cleaning agents suitable for daily use.
He said results from using the right shampoo may become visible after just a few washes, with significant improvements noticed in hair fall and sensitivity issues.
“It’s important to monitor hair loss for at least two months for conclusive results.
“In cases of sensitive scalps or dandruff, changes can be observed within a few days when the correct shampoo is used,” he said.
