Healthy Scalp = Healthy Hair

You probably haven't given all that much thought to your scalp. But suddenly, it seems like every major hair-care brand wants you to. And for good reason: "The scalp requires regular nourishment to stay healthy," says Francesca Fusco, a dermatologist in New York City. "If you have a healthy scalp, your hair is going to grow in healthier, be less likely to break, and look younger." Always a good thing. Here's how to get the most out of scalp treatments.

Look for ones that contain both natural oils (like almond, coconut, sunflower seed, and soybean) and niacinimide to help deliver ingredients into the hair follicle, says cosmetic chemist Ni'Kita Wilson. Massage them into your roots and let them sit for 10 or 15 minutes to "help repair and nourish the scalp and hair follicles, so individual hairs can grow in stronger and resist breakage," says Fusco. Scalp treatments come in serums, masks, and (yup) oils, but you don't necessarily have to add a new step to your routine. You can use a shampoo that contains scalp-nourishing ingredients, like the ones found in Clear Total Care Nourishing Shampoo (Fusco is a spokesperson for the brand) and Garnier Fructis Fortifying Shampoo Fall Fight.

If your scalp is itchy and dry-or if you have dandruff-your hair could grow in weaker. "If you notice flaking, dryness, or dandruff, it should be addressed immediately," says Fusco. "There's also increasing evidence that dandruff exacerbates hair loss." So start using an anti-dandruff shampoo, or, if the problem is dryness, switch to a moisturizing shampoo and put conditioner right on your scalp for five minutes each week.