15 Healthy Hair Tips: Expert Insights

Looking for healthy hair tips? We asked experts to share their best advice for maintaining healthy, beautiful hair. Whether you want more shine, less frizz, or healthier growth, this practical advice will help you take better care of your hair right at home.

The best tips for hair health include a washing and conditioning routine and protecting your hair from heat and sun. We’ll go more in-depth below, plus answer common questions and share a few of our favorite haircare products.

1. Wash Hair At Least Twice Weekly

Kelsea Ruch, a licensed trichologist and founder of Solace Flow Head Spa explains that there isn’t a magic number for how often you should wash your hair. While you should wash it at least twice weekly, the best frequency depends on your scalp oiliness, lifestyle, and hair type. 

Daily washing might be best for oily hair. If you have drier hair, you might wash it two to three times weekly. 

Be sure to also choose a shampoo that’s best for your hair type. For example, moisturizing shampoo is best for dry or damaged hair, while strengthening shampoo works well for most hair types.

2. Use Conditioner

Conditioner is non-negotiable for soft, manageable hair. However, Ruch says most people don’t apply it correctly. 

Here’s what to know about using conditioner:

• Fine or average hair - Apply from mid-length to ends.
• Coarse or curly hair - Start at the bottom and work up to your roots.
• Leave-in time - Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes.
• Rinsing - Rinse thoroughly to prevent buildup or flakes.

3. Use Hair Products for Your Hair Type

Ruch emphasizes matching products to your specific hair type instead of just following trends or whatever smells good. Fine hair struggles with heavy oils, while coarse hair may need more moisture. 

To find what works best, look for products labeled for your hair type and test them one at a time so you can see the actual results.

4. Massage Your Scalp

According to Ruch, a scalp massage is one of the most underrated tips for healthy hair — and it’s completely free. The purpose is to stimulate hair follicles and extend the anagen (growth) phase, helping your hair grow stronger and healthier.

To get the best results, aim to massage your scalp daily or at least four times a week. Use firm, circular motions around your entire scalp. If your forehead moves, you’re doing it right. Spend about five minutes per session to boost blood flow effectively.

It’s ideal if you can do scalp massages in the evening. Stress hormones drop at night, allowing your body to focus on repair while you sleep. 

5. Do a Hair Mask

Ruch explains that a mask is like a deep conditioning day for your hair. This process offers more moisture, protein, or repair than a daily conditioner. 

If your hair feels dry, brittle, or processed, use a hair mask once weekly. Otherwise, you can do it less frequently. Always shampoo first, then apply the mask, and rinse thoroughly. Avoid overusing protein masks, which can make hair stiff instead of soft.

We love Oakwell Cosmetics Beer Hair Mask because it rehydrates and restores hair with a rejuvenating blend of beer, coconut oil, and wheat protein. It promotes strong growth, hydrates for silky smoothness, and works for all hair types, including color-treated and damaged. Plus, it smells incredibly refreshing.

6. Use Hair Oil

Ruch explains that while hair oil doesn’t hydrate hair, it’s great for locking in moisture and taming frizz. Use a few drops on damp hair from mid-length to ends. If you’re using it on your scalp, it should only be for a pre-shampoo treatment. 

If you’re looking for a great oil that works well for all hair types, try Oakwell Cosmetics Hops-Infused Hair Oil. It’s made with natural ingredients that strengthen, promote healthy growth, and leave hair smelling fresh.

7. Be Mindful of Your Products

Ruch says “less is more” when it comes to hair products. Too many products can weigh your hair down and cause buildup. 

When you use multiple products, it can also make it difficult to know what’s actually working. Instead, stick to a few quality items and introduce new products slowly.

8. Avoid Dry Shampoo

Many people use dry shampoo for a quick refresh during their haircare routine. However, it can actually be harmful to your hair.

Dry shampoo is one of the beauty industry’s favorite products to push, but Ruch explains it doesn’t actually clean your scalp. When you use dry shampoo, it coats oil, making your hair look fresher. However, residue builds up, clogs follicles, and throws off your scalp’s balance. 

If you want a refresh, Ruch recommends using Thayer's witch hazel on a cotton round. Dab it along your part, hairline, and any oily areas. Unlike dry shampoo, it absorbs grime instead of just covering it up and creating buildup.

9. Limit Heat Styling

Lauren Shea, Celebrity Hair and Makeup Artist at Lauren Shea Artistry explains that frequent heat styling with blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons dehydrates hair and weakens the cuticle. This often leads to breakage and split ends.

Give your hair a break by air-drying whenever possible, or set it with braids or silk rollers for natural texture. When you do use heat, always apply a protectant first. Then, keep tools at safer temperatures — 350°F or lower for fine hair and 400°F or lower for thicker, coarser hair.

10. Use Hair Protection

Shea explains that applying heat protectants before using tools creates a barrier that locks in moisture and reduces damage. Lightweight sprays or creams can smooth hair while keeping it safe. Look for protein-based products, which help strengthen your hair. 

Protection also goes beyond heat. Use UV-filtering products labeled with “sun protection,” wear hats or scarves outside, and rinse hair with fresh water after swimming. This helps prevent chlorine, salt, and UV rays from drying out your hair, fading the color, and weakening keratin.

11. Carefully Dry Hair

Shea recommends skipping aggressive towel rubbing, which roughs up the cuticle and increases frizz. Instead, gently blot wet hair with a microfiber towel. 

Let your hair air dry 70–80% when you can, then finish with a blow dryer on cool or medium heat. This method smooths the cuticle, reduces frizz, and helps maintain healthier strands.

12. Get Regular Trims

Getting regular trims is one of the most common healthy hair tips, but it’s actually a myth that trims make your hair grow faster. What they do is prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft and causing breakage, says Shea. This keeps your hair looking fuller, thicker, and healthier over time.

If you have fine hair, or if you heat style or color often, aim for a trim every 6–8 weeks. If your hair is generally healthy, natural, and low-maintenance, every 10–12 weeks is usually enough.

13. Use a Silk Pillowcase

While most people use cotton pillowcases, these can actually tug on your hair and absorb natural oils. Shea recommends using silk or satin pillowcases instead because they allow strands to glide smoothly across the fabric. This reduces friction, frizz, and breakage while maintaining your hair’s moisture.

Silk pillowcases are a simple, one-time swap that promotes healthier hair. Plus, these are also gentler on skin, helping reduce sleep creases and irritation.

14. Eat Healthy

Since hair is made of protein (keratin), nutrition directly impacts its growth, strength, and shine. Shea suggests eating protein-rich foods like eggs, salmon, lean meats, and nuts. Spinach, avocado, citrus fruits, and berries also provide omega-3s, vitamins, and antioxidants that support strong, glossy hair.

A balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to maintain healthy hair from the inside out.

15. Use Supplements

Even with a healthy diet, Shea says many people fall short on nutrients that benefit hair. Supplements can help fill the gaps. Biotin, Vitamin D, iron, and zinc are some of the most effective options for promoting hair growth and strength.

Choose high-quality supplements without fillers or added sugars to avoid wasting money. And since needs vary by person, it’s best to consult a medical professional for personalized advice.

Healthy Hair Tips: FAQs

To make the most of your haircare routine, explore answers to common questions below.

What are 5 tips for healthy hair?

Five of the best tips for healthy hair include washing at least twice weekly, using conditioner, massaging your scalp, protecting hair from heat and sun, and trimming regularly.

What is the healthiest thing for your hair?

While there’s not one single method for healthy hair, keeping it moisturized, nourished, and protected from heat and UV is key. A balanced diet and proper care also promote natural shine and healthy growth.

Does not washing hair help hair health?

People often believe that less washing promotes healthier hair. However, washing at least twice weekly is essential to refresh the scalp and prevent buildup. Dry shampoo isn’t a substitute for a real wash and may leave behind buildup if overused.

What is the best oil for hair?

The best oil for hair works for your hair type and goals. Oakwell Cosmetics Hops-Infused Hair Oil nourishes is a great option for all hair types, strengthens, reduces dryness, and promotes healthy growth.

Healthy Hair Tips: Conclusion

Maintaining healthy hair doesn't require complex routines. Simple steps, such as washing correctly, conditioning, using the right products, and protecting from heat, can make a significant difference. Eating well, supplementing when needed, and gentle daily habits also help your hair look and feel its best.