Featuring Dr. Faaria Karim — Dr. Lena Robertson

What is your name: Faaria Karim, ND, LAc

Where are you from: Vancouver, Canada

What is your background: I earned my BSc in Biomedical Physiology at SFU before attending Naturopathic medical school at Bastyr University. During my time there, I explored Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and saw the powerful effects of acupuncture on enhancing patient health. This led me to completing my Masters of Science degree in Acupuncture while I studied for my Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Degree. In my last year, I took an elective course on the naturopathic approach to fertility and absolutely loved it! Discovering that passion shaped my path, leading me to an amazing residency program focusing on fertility, women’s health and digestive health. I practiced at an integrative health clinic in Portland, OR before moving back home to Vancouver.

In a few sentences tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do: My clinical focus is on women’s health and fertility. Combining both a Naturopathic and TCM approach allows me to assess a patient in a unique and comprehensive way. In other words, I blend the best of Eastern and Western medicine to elevate my patient’s health and well-being. I also love baking and experimenting with healthier spins on desserts. My friends and family have become the official taste-testers (and they’re not complaining!)

What are you currently doing for hair health and care? Because of the love affair I have with my curling wand my hair is a little on the dry side. To give it some much-needed TLC I do a weekly moisturizing hair mask with regular ol’ coconut oil. I melt a couple of tablespoons of coco oil, add some vitamin E oil (from vitamin E capsules) and apply it starting with the ends of my hair moving up to the roots. I finish with a good scalp massage not only because it feels amazing, but it also stimulates blood flow to the hair follicles. Then I throw my hair up in a messy bun and leave the mask in for at least an hour before showering and washing it out.

I’m also more mindful about how I tie back my hair for workouts, which has made a big difference to the health of my hair! Before going for a run or doing a sweaty workout I’ll tie my hair into a high pony and braid it, or put it up in a top knot to prevent the ends from getting super sweaty or tangled. This keeps the ends of my hair from getting damaged, and I can push back how frequently I trim my hair.

Are you using any natural hair products (if yes, what are they and what do you like or not like about them): I recently switched to an Ayurvedic shampoo. It has 3 herbal extracts to support hair health, amla, reetha and shikakai, which are supposed to strengthen hair, add shine and stimulate hair growth. I’ll have to let you know if I notice any changes!

What are some helpful tips you can share with other readers: Hair masks, deep conditioners and other products are helpful but they won’t fix a problem that’s rooted in the body. If you’re noticing drier hair, slow growth or if you’re shedding more hair than usual, check in with your doctor for blood work. Low iron stores or a sluggish thyroid are common findings for people with increased hair loss. If that does happen to be the case, taking a hair/skin/nails supplement won’t fix this.

Stress also plays a role in hair loss but not always immediately. Due to the cycle of hair growth, the loss can start to happen more than 3 months after a stressful event!

Quality nutrition is key for healthy hair, especially consuming adequate protein and healthy fats. Bring on the avocados!

For DIY hair masks, choose an oil based on your hair type. I have thick drier hair so coconut oil works well, but for finer hair try a lighter oil like almond or avocado oil. If the oil is too heavy, it may not wash out properly and leave your hair feeling greasy.

If you would like to link info about yourself and how to contact you please list your website for other readers to look at:

Connect with me on Instagram @drfaariakarim

Check out my website at www.drfaariakarim.com