A famous trichologist told me my hair care routine was ineffective: she made 4 changes

(Image credit: Future, Act+Acre)

The alignment is a monthly series where we give you an inside look at the beauty lines of fashion geniuses, editors, makeup artists, stylists, and aestheticians—all the people we trust most. Get ready to go behind the scenes of all the can’t-live-without products that make your world go round.

I love staying on top of the latest beauty and self-care trends that pop up on my feed. Admittedly, one I slept on way too long was scalp care. I always wondered: does it do that? in fact Make difference? Although I was skeptical, my doubt disappeared when I spoke to Helen Reavey, a famous trichologist and hairstylist. “The scalp is the root of all hair health,” says Reavey, who is also the founder of the viral scalp care brand. Act+Acre. “The skin on the scalp ages six times faster than that on the face, so it is very important to prioritize the scalp to have healthy hair.”

What really made me a believer was when Reavey compared scalp care to skin care. “I always equate scalp care with skin care – would you ever layer on makeup and leave it on your skin for more than three days without washing it off? The answer is probably ‘no’ as it would leave your skin more prone to breakouts and extremely dry – and the same goes for your scalp,” she says. With these revelations in mind, let’s get into the changes Reavey suggests you make to your hair care routine, no matter your hair type.

In: Double cleaning your hair

Out: product accumulation

“You need to make sure you wash your hair properly and often enough. It’s actually a myth that you shouldn’t wash your hair too often; there’s no evidence to show that shampoo damages hair. I recommend double cleansing your scalp—the first cleanse removes product buildup, while the second wash cleanses your scalp.”

In: Chemical exfoliants and Gua Sha

Out: Scalp Scrubs

“Physical exfoliants can create micro-tears in the scalp, which increases the chances of irritation and infection. Instead, use a gentle chemical exfoliant once a week. I also love to give my scalp a massage once a day, either with a gua sha or my hands.”

In: Scalp Serums

Outside: excessive heat

“Using heat on damaged hair strips moisture from the scalp, weakens hair protein bonds, and intensifies damage to hair strands. Instead, treat yourself to a nourishing treatment and restorative scalp serum.. “It moisturizes the scalp and creates the optimal environment for healthy hair follicle function.”

In: Healthy diet, abundant hydration and vitamins for hair

Out: Neglecting the health of your hair

“Many things affect the overall health of the scalp, including hormonal imbalances, stress, diet, nutrient deficiencies, and more. I never go a day without taking my vitamins for hair, as proper nutrition and hydration play an integral role in keeping hair healthy and strong. Our usual diets often lack nutrients and our hair, skin and nails suffer the consequences. I recommend looking for hair growth supplements that are rich in plant extracts and amino acids, which work to compensate for common nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, ingredients such as vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin D can help strengthen the hair follicle, while biotin, iron and zinc are known to support the hair growth cycle.”

Below, Reavey shares the exact products she uses to achieve her shiny hair (and glowing skin).

Elemis

Pro-Collagen Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm

“This is a fan favorite, and for good reason! I use it at night as my first cleanse to remove makeup. I love how the texture changes as I massage it into my skin and add water. I find it leaves my skin feeling hydrated and soft, unlike other products that can feel stripping.”

“This is a more recent addition to my routine, but it has quickly become one of my favorites. It’s a small microcurrent device that helps target wrinkles, sagging skin, blemishes, pigmentation, and dull texture. I use it three to four times a week.”

The beginning

Gentle antioxidant micellar cleanser

“I don’t go a day without using this cleanser. I love everything The Outset stands for, especially their emphasis on clean products that repair the moisture barrier. This cleanser is very hydrating and leaves my skin clean and fresh.”

Supergoop!

Invisible sunscreen SPF 40 invisible

“I keep this sunscreen in my work bag so I can reapply it as needed throughout the day; It’s super lightweight and never leaves my skin feeling greasy.”

Gods

Instant Angel Lipid-Rich Barrier Repair Cream

“Dieux Skin can’t go wrong: my friends Charlotte and Marta have truly created amazing products. This moisturizer has been a constant in my routine since the first day I tried it. “It is full of fatty acids that keep my skin very hydrated and plump.”

Orange Blossom Eau de Parfum

cooking cooking

Orange Blossom Eau de Parfum

“I can’t say enough about this perfume; It is without a doubt my favorite scent. I discovered it a few years ago on a trip and haven’t gone a day without using it since. “I have one at home, one in my bag and one in my work bag.”

Act+Acre

H-2 Stem Cell Growth Complex 2% Scalp Serum for Thicker Looking Hair

“I really love all of our scalp-focused products, but our stem cell serum has always been one of my absolute favorites. I don’t go a day without using it. It is formulated with apple stem cells and aloe vera to nourish and soothe. the scalp while increasing collagen production and adding moisture. I apply one or two pipettes along the hairline after each wash; “It absorbs perfectly and leaves my scalp feeling hydrated and balanced.”

Gods

Auracle Antioxidant Eye Gel & Peptide

“I use this eye serum both day and night and always make sure to carry it in my handbag when I travel. It is made with an extremely gentle formula that does not irritate my sensitive skin but instead leaves it looking brighter and more hydrated.”

Seed

DS-01 Daily Symbiotic

“These probiotics are another non-negotiable item in my daily routine; I notice a huge difference in my energy levels when I don’t use them. They are packed with ingredients and enzymes that support gut health, digestive health, and so much more.”

Sai

Sun Melt Natural Cream Bronzer

“This product has become a staple in my makeup routine. It’s easy to apply and provides the perfect balance of bronze and glow to my fair skin. I also love that it’s made with grape seed oil and elderberry extract, which keeps my skin nourished and protected.”

skin repair

Barrier + Triple Lipid + Niacinamide Activating Serum

“I’m a huge fan of this brand and all of their triple lipid products. Skin barrier health is very important to me (hence the Diuex products too!) and I’ve seen a huge difference since using them consistently. Perfect to add in the morning before my sunscreen and other serums.”

Boka Fluoride Free Toothpaste

“Another one of my go-to’s is this toothpaste. It’s fluoride-free and leaves my breath fresh and minty. I’ve definitely noticed my teeth are whiter since I started using it, too.”

“I use this gua sha religiously on my face to de-puff and help sculpt my face. It’s especially great to use after a long flight. The practice and tool come from traditional Chinese medicine and are known to release tension in the face while promoting blood circulation. I love the shape and design – the U-shaped edge is perfect for sculpting my jawline.”

Joseon beauty

Sun Relief SPF 50+

“Hands down my favorite sunscreen on the market! It’s lightweight and doesn’t leave a sticky residue or white cast like others do. It is also made with fermented rice and grain extracts, which are rich in vitamins B, C and E. [and] “It helps keep the skin healthy and hydrated.”

Act+Acre

Thick and Full Hair Capsules for Fuller Looking Hair

“I take two capsules every day to ensure I support the health of my scalp and hair from the inside out. “They are formulated with excellent ingredients such as bamboo and horsetail extracts, vitamin C, amino acids and biotin, which work together to optimize hair follicle function and strengthen hair strands.”

Ceremonial Matcha Green Tea Powder

Matchaful

Kiwami Single Origin Ceremonial Matcha

“Matcha is an essential part of my morning routine, regardless of whether I’m at home in New York or on the road. I love the ritual of preparing it every morning.”

Act+Acre

Volumizing dry shampoo with fulvic acid

“I don’t go anywhere without this dry shampoo! The formula is absolutely incredible: it’s made with just six ingredients, including fulvic acid, which delivers over 65 minerals to the hair follicle to support the scalp microbiome. “It’s perfect for adding a little volume to your roots and absorbing any oil in case you have to go a day or two between washes.”