Issue 530 – Beauty Without Damaging Your Hair: Daily Care Tips

As people today place increasing importance on their appearance, creating an appropriate hairstyle has become part of many individuals’ daily routine—whether for work, social gatherings, or important events. Various hair-styling products, such as sprays, setting creams, gels, waxes, and oils, have thus become common tools. However, many users still have questions regarding proper application, cleansing steps, and the potential effects of these products.

To address these concerns, the Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA) invited Dr. Jen-Yu Tsai, Associate Professor of Dermatology at Taipei Medical University, to explain how to express personal style while maintaining healthy scalp and hair care in daily life.

Choose the Right Products and Follow the Instructions

Dr. Jen-Yu Tsai recommends selecting hair-styling products with clear labeling, complete instructions, and proper product registration. Consumers should avoid items of unknown origin or those that do not list ingredients or intended uses. When applying such products, one should consider personal hair type and styling needs, using an appropriate amount only on targeted areas. Overuse may weigh down the hair or increase the likelihood of residue buildup.

After styling, it is important to thoroughly cleanse both the scalp and hair to prevent discomfort caused by trapped heat or product accumulation, helping maintain a fresh and comfortable feel. Most approved products come with usage directions, and following these instructions allows users to achieve both effective styling and proper hair care.

Scalp Health Is Closely Linked to Daily Habits

Regarding whether hair-styling products are associated with hair loss, Dr. Jen-Yu Tsai explains that shedding a small amount of hair each day is part of the natural cycle and is not solely caused by styling products. In clinical practice, it is more common to see hair breakage—often mistaken for hair loss—resulting from frequent dyeing, perming, or heat styling, which weakens the hair shaft. Regular conditioning and hair treatments can help improve this condition.

As for individuals who experience scalp discomfort after using styling products, Dr. Tsai notes that such reactions are often related to cleansing habits, lifestyle routines, or changes in skin condition, rather than a single product itself. For example, excessive shampooing, scratching or rubbing the scalp, or failing to remove product residue promptly may all affect scalp health. Developing gentle shampooing habits and maintaining a stable daily routine can greatly contribute to a healthier scalp and stronger hair.

Choose the Right Products, Use Them Properly, and Pay Attention to Your Skin

Addressing concerns about whether styling products can cause long-term effects on the scalp, Dr. Jen-Yu Tsai states that current medical research has not found evidence linking these products directly to specific scalp diseases. The scalp is largely protected by hair, which limits external irritation. As long as consumers choose legally approved products and maintain regular cleansing and care routines, both the scalp and hair can generally remain in a healthy and stable condition.

It is worth noting, however, that if styling products accidentally come into contact with the skin on the face or neck, some individuals may experience temporary discomfort depending on their skin sensitivity. In such cases, users should discontinue the product and monitor their symptoms; consulting a dermatologist may be necessary if the reaction persists. If itching, dryness, or abnormal flaking occurs, seeking medical advice is recommended to obtain appropriate care.

Source: Taiwan Food and Drug Administration (TFDA)