Some of the most useful hair advice comes from simple, everyday questions. In this article based on his Q&A video, Dr. John Watts — dermatologist, trichologist and hair transplant surgeon in Hyderabad — answers four practical viewer questions covering soapnut shampoos, slow regrowth after shaving, miracle hair oil claims and a common Minoxidil safety worry.
Are Kunkudukai (soapnut) shampoos good for hair?
A viewer asked which brand of Kunkudukai shampoo is good and how to use it properly. Dr. Watts explains that several soapnut-enriched shampoos, such as Nyle and Meera — also called voluminous shampoos — are easily available in the market. These shampoos add volume to the hair through water retention.
However, there is a catch: frequent use of soapnut shampoos is known to damage the hair cuticle, the hair's protective layer.
“To avoid damage to the hair cuticle, which is a protective layer, one must use any brand of herbal hair conditioner. Keep the herbal hair conditioner on the scalp for two minutes and rinse off with water for better results,” he advised.
Why is my hair growing slowly after shaving my head?
Another viewer shaved his head along with a friend — the friend's hair regrew in two months, but his had not grown properly even after four months. Dr. Watts asked him not to compare his growth with another person's, as each individual's hair growth cycle differs due to several reasons, including genetics.
“You should not worry due to delayed hair growth after shaving your hair unless there is poor hair growth and hair fall, or there is poor hair growth and you have family baldness, or there is partial hair growth. For these reasons, it is better to consult a dermatologist,” advised Dr. Watts.
Can a hair oil really grow hair in 16 days?
A beauty centre advertised a hair oil claiming hair growth in 16 days. Dr. Watts is blunt: do not believe in magic remedies, as such products may be using steroids as ingredients.
“Even after you shave your hair, there is no possibility for hair regrowth in 16 days. This is a lie. Better to avoid such products and before using them look for the credibility of the manufacturer and ingredients. Such products may contain irritants or steroids that may damage your hair,” warned Dr. Watts.
Does Minoxidil-Finasteride lower sperm count?
A viewer worried whether applying Minoxidil and Finasteride would reduce sperm count. Dr. Watts clarifies that with topical application of Minoxidil and Finasteride, there is no impact on sexual functions or sperm count. “Presently, there is no report about it in the scientific literature,” he informed.
The bottom line
Use soapnut shampoos sparingly and follow with a herbal conditioner, give your hair time after a head shave, never trust 16-day miracle oils, and do not panic about topical Minoxidil-Finasteride and fertility. When in doubt — especially if slow growth comes with hair fall or a family history of baldness — see a dermatologist rather than the comments section.
This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Are soapnut (Kunkudukai) shampoos safe for regular use?
Soapnut shampoos like Nyle and Meera add volume through water retention, but frequent use can damage the hair cuticle. Dr. John Watts advises using a herbal hair conditioner — kept on for two minutes and rinsed off — to protect the cuticle.
Is slow hair regrowth after shaving my head a problem?
Not usually — each person's hair growth cycle differs due to genetics and other factors. Consult a dermatologist only if slow growth comes with hair fall, a family history of baldness, or partial regrowth.
Can any hair oil grow hair in 16 days?
No. Dr. Watts calls such claims a lie — even after shaving, regrowth in 16 days is not possible. Such products may contain steroids or irritants that can damage your hair.
Does topical Minoxidil-Finasteride affect sperm count?
No. Dr. Watts states that topical application has no impact on sexual function or sperm count, and there are currently no reports of this in the scientific literature.
