Worst Hair Care Advice on the Internet—And What to Do Instead

My biggest bad habit as a Trichologist is definitely lurking too hard in the comments where people are giving other people bad hair advice. It pains me as a professional who wants to give people the real low-down to see habits being shared that can actually sabotage scalp and hair health. Hair loss is already troubling enough without layering on misinformation. The internet is overflowing with advice, and while some of it is helpful, plenty of it makes me want to tear my hair out!

Convenience habits can be great when they’re effective, but that’s not the case with 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner combos. It’s just not the right chemistry helpful to hair. Shampoo is designed to cleanse, with a higher pH to remove sweat, oil, and impurities, including DHT, which wears on the quality of your hair—even if you’re not balding. Conditioner, on the other hand, restores your hair’s natural pH, smooths the cuticle layer, and delivers the vitamins your scalp craves. Using a 2-in-1 product or skipping conditioner altogether means you’re robbing your hair of the nourishment and protection it needs.

Some people skip conditioner altogether, thinking it will add volume or help their blowout last longer. As a Trichologist, this habit makes me cringe. Skipping conditioner doesn’t create volume; it creates brittle, vulnerable hair that breaks and tangles more easily. If volume is your goal, the solution isn’t to avoid conditioner—it’s to find one that suits your hair type. Try a lightweight formula or a volumizing conditioner with ingredients that nourish without weighing your hair down. It might take a little trial and error, but the right product will leave your hair fluffy and protected.

Dry shampoo was a lifesaver in the 2010s, and it’s still great when you’re in a rush. But as a daily fix? Hard pass. Excessive dry shampoo builds up on the scalp, blocking follicles and disrupting the scalp microbiome. For anyone experiencing hair loss, it’s especially important to keep the scalp clean and clear. Prioritize regular washes with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo, and save the dry shampoo for emergencies.

Scalp brushes seem to have become a staple in shower routines but using them on wet hair is a mistake. Wet hair is fragile, and scalp brushes can tug and overstretch it, leading to breakage. Fingers are your best tool for wet hair—you can feel the friction you’re applying and avoid unnecessary pulling. Save the scalp brush for use on dry hair, when it can promote circulation, spread oils, and loosen debris, especially when paired with a protective product.

I get it—DIY haircare is everywhere, from rosemary oil to coconut oil treatments. Some of these remedies can work. Homemade rosemary oil, for example, might be comparable to 2% minoxidil, but without a way to gauge potency, you’re rolling the dice. Professionally formulated products take the guesswork out of the equation. Coconut oil, often used as an overnight treatment, can clog follicles and throw your scalp’s balance into chaos when left on too long. More isn’t always better. Stick to treatments that are designed for your scalp and hair’s needs, and limit application time to 1–4 hours.

I see shampoos marketed as hair growth solutions, but here’s the deal: shampoo alone doesn’t grow hair. The right shampoo can support your scalp’s health, which is crucial for growth, but it’s not a standalone treatment. Look for sulfate-free options and products tailored to your hair type, but don’t expect miracles. Hair growth requires a multi-therapeutic approach—think topicals, nutrition, and professional treatments.

Haste and shortcuts can prevent you from achieving your best hair day. Online advice should be taken with a grain of salt—there’s a difference between popular trends and evidence-based solutions. Your hair deserves better than being treated like a science experiment. Small changes, made intentionally, can make a big difference in your hair’s health and vitality and steer you away from following the worst hair care advice.

Consulting with a Trichologist is a game-changer. A scalp analysis can reveal the hidden details of your hair health, and together, we can create a routine that works for your unique needs. Let’s turn hair care confusion into your best hair days yet. Book a consultation today! I’m here to help. As a trichologist in Pittsfield, MA, I offer personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs, including scalp care, laser therapy, and growth factor treatments. Book your consultation today and start your journey toward healthier, stronger hair. Let’s work together to create a plan that works for you.

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