Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes that proper hair washing techniques and the selection of effective ingredients are crucial for hair health and growth, rather than relying solely on new shampoos [1]. Group 1: Hair Washing Techniques - The effectiveness of shampoo ingredients requires sufficient contact time with the scalp, typically 3-5 minutes for active components like caffeine and saw palmetto [2]. - Washing frequency should be tailored to individual needs; for oily scalps, washing every 1-2 days is recommended, while dry scalps can extend to 3-5 days [3]. - Proper scalp cleaning is essential, involving techniques such as using warm water to open hair cuticles and massaging the scalp to enhance blood flow by up to 20% [4]. Group 2: Active Ingredients in Shampoos - Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, is effective in removing scalp oil and dead skin cells, suitable for oily scalps, and should be used 1-2 times a week [5]. - Caffeine has been shown to inhibit hair follicle miniaturization and promote hair growth by increasing energy signals within follicle cells [5]. - Herbal ingredients like cedar leaf and he shou wu (fo-ti) can improve scalp circulation and prolong hair growth phases, with specific usage recommendations for their extracts [7].

Core Insights - The hair care market is experiencing a slowdown in growth in 2024, with a sales increase of only 1% year-on-year, despite a 6% rise in consumer purchase frequency, indicating a shift towards diversified demand and a new phase of product category transformation [1][3]. Group 1: Market Trends - The demand for hair care products is evolving, with consumers increasingly seeking upgraded functionalities and scientific hair care solutions, driven by the need for healthier hair [1][5]. - Consumers are moving from basic needs like dandruff control to more sophisticated requirements, with an average of at least two types of shampoos being purchased per person in 2024, particularly focusing on volumizing products [3][7]. Group 2: Consumer Behavior - Female consumers and men aged 15-34 are the primary drivers of growth in the volumizing segment, with female penetration rates increasing by 6 percentage points and male groups showing significant interest in self-image management [3][7]. - The trend of "scientific hair care" is emerging, where consumers are opting for a variety of products like conditioners and hair masks to address specific hair damage, moving beyond traditional shampoos [5][9]. Group 3: Product Innovation - Brands are focusing on ingredient innovation, with products incorporating advanced components like hyaluronic acid and salicylic acid gaining popularity, leading to significant sales growth in specific product lines [7][8]. - The introduction of new ingredients, such as selenium sulfide in anti-dandruff shampoos, is creating competitive advantages in the market, as consumers become more ingredient-conscious [8][10]. Group 4: Strategic Recommendations - Companies should leverage "ingredient technology" and "precise scenario targeting" to differentiate themselves in a slowing market, focusing on consumer demands for healthy hair [10][12]. - Utilizing AI-driven packaging recognition can help brands identify emerging ingredient trends and consumer preferences, enabling better product innovation and market positioning [9][10].