If you’ve been ready our blog and website, have already had a transplant, or are researching what a transplant is all about, then you know there are numerous factors that contribute to healthy hair that, if practiced, can even prevent partial or total hair loss.

But one common mistake is to assume that the issue of keeping or restoring your hair is subject matter for adults only. Healthy hair maintenance begins by establishing sound habits at an early age. Once your child is ready to start washing their hair independently, use these tips to help them develop life-long hair care habits (and perhaps you can start using them, too).

How to Wash Hair

• This might seem obvious, but shampoo works best on wet hair and scalps, so wet their hair with warm (not hot) water.
• Pour about a quarter-size drop of shampoo into the palm of your hand so it’s easier to apply than by pouring shampoo right on the head.
• Gently massage the shampoo into the scalp rather than the entire length of the hair. Rubbing the shampoo into the hair can lead to breakage and dull, fly-away hair.
• Rinse with warm water until the hair and scalp are free of suds. This ensures all shampoo and dirt is washed away.
• Cover the hair with a towel to absorb water; do not rub the hair dry as doing so can damage it and cause breakage. Hair is most vulnerable when wet.
• Using a wide-tooth comb, gently comb the hair. For long hair, start at the ends and carefully work your way up being sure not to yank or pull.
• If your child has curly or dry hair, they should use a gentle, moisturizing conditioner.

How to Care for Hair

• When braiding or making a ponytail, keep them loose and use only covered rubber bands or scrunchies.
• Choose styles that don’t require chemical treatments or heat.
• If you must heat-style, use the lowest heat setting.
• The longer between chemical treatments the better as they contain products that damage hair with repeated use.
• Wash away pool chemicals after swimming. For very dry or curly hair, rinse well then apply a conditioner. Use shampoo for normal to oily hair.
• Choose a wide-tooth comb over a brush whenever possible.
• Protect your scalp from the damaging effects of the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors.

Is this how you learned to was and care for your hair as a child? If not, and you’re losing enough now that it’s causing you distress and a loss of confidence, maybe childhood habits played a role in your current condition. But now’s not the time to be looking back. It’s time to look ahead and discover how to regain your more youthful appearance and greater self-confidence by talking to the medical team at DiStefano Hair Restoration Center. Why not schedule your free consultation today.