The first place to start is the scalp. Just as there are different types of skin, there are different types of scalp. Some naturally produce more oil, some are drier, and some are more flaky. What’s more, just as your skin type can change over time, your scalp type doesn’t stay the same either. So make it a habit to monitor your scalp.

“Literally go in there, part the hair in different places all over your head and look at the scalp: is it red? Are there scales? Do you see fatty deposits? Make it a habit,” says Reslan. “The point is, you just have to pay attention to it. People don’t do it enough.”

The scalp is very important because if the scalp shows signs of inflammation, it can lead to hair loss. “If the build-up or irritation is really bad, it can even pull the hair out because there’s so much inflammation around the hair follicle,” says board-certified dermatologist Adarsh ​​Vijay Majil, MD.