Homemade masks and hair care: truths and myths, by dermatologist Laura Habib

Although traditionally, from generation to generation, we have believed that we can repair hair using elements found at home. That is why we turn to homemade masks that promise wonderful effects for hair care. However, it is important to understand that we may be putting our health at risk without even realizing it.

There are numerous causes of hair damage and different types of structural alterations in the hair.
The hair cycle, on the other hand, has several stages that do not simply change due to an external agent, especially without a clear therapeutic purpose.

The potential risks of applying foods, plants, and other products revolve around the following aspects:

1. We do not know the cause of the hair problem.
2. We use substances that are not designed to be properly absorbed through the scalp.
3. We expose ourselves to significant changes in pH and other specific conditions that maintain the health and chemical and physical balance of the scalp. This predisposes us to trigger or worsen inflammatory conditions in the scalp.
4. We are unaware of the real chemical composition of the ingredients used, running the risk of suffering from allergic or irritant dermatitis, intoxications, photosensitivity, seborrheic dermatitis, among others.

If we do not currently have any discomfort regarding our hair health, it is ideal to use commercial products from specialized hair care lines such as L’Oréal, Klorane, Herbal Essences, etc.

If we are already experiencing some degree of discomfort, we should avoid unnecessarily spending money trying multiple remedies and delaying an accurate diagnosis.

Signs that indicate something is wrong with our hair health include flaking, lack of shine, dryness, itching, fragility, among others.

In such cases, it is best to schedule a dermatological consultation for a clinical and trichoscopic diagnosis (a magnified examination of hair structures). This way, we can receive an appropriate treatment plan, which may include an in-office protocol and/or home treatment.

Laura Sofía Habib Araújo
@LHDERMATOLOGIA
Medical Dermatologist
Bogotá, Colombia