In this episode of HairPod, I sit down with my incredible HairClub stylist, Rachel Rivera, to explore the similarities—and key differences—between caring for a hair system and natural hair. Spoiler alert: it’s not as different as you might think, but there are a few extra steps to keep your hair system looking its best.

How to Care for a Hair System

Hair systems that are made of real human hair can be washed and dried just like regular hair. But what are the best practices for hair of all kinds? Rachel breaks down what to look for (and what to avoid) in your shampoo and conditioner. Many store-bought products contain ingredients like sodium lauryl sulfate, which can strip away natural oils and harm both scalp health and hair longevity. She also shares why buzzwords like "biotin" don’t always mean a product will work—and how to recognize what’s real versus what’s just marketing.

Styling Hair to Prevent Hair Loss

Hair loss or thinning isn’t typically caused by what you use to style your hair, but some products are not doing you any favors. Rachel explains how hard-hold gels, crunchy sprays, and excessive product buildup can cause breakage, whether your hair is naturally growing or bonded. She shares tips on which styling products to avoid and how to remove buildup without damaging your strands or your system.

Scalp Care for Hair Loss

Scalp care is skin care, and taking care of your scalp can help encourage hair growth. From blow drying techniques to scalp health basics, Rachel shares insight into how scalp conditions like dandruff or psoriasis can impact hair loss and how to address those issues. We also talk about heat styling: how to use it safely, what tools to avoid, and how brushing and tension can lead to damage, especially for those wearing hair systems. The message is clear: personalization is key.

Resources

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Thanks for listening to HairPod. We hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did, please leave us a rating or review wherever you get your podcasts. If you’d like to connect with us on social media to share your story, check us out on Instagram @HairClub. HairPod is a production of TSE Studios. Our theme music is from SoundStripe.