Try baggying your hair when dealing with extra dryness. This is when you apply a moisturiser to dry hair and place a plastic cap on top of it for 2-3 hours. After that, seal in the moisture with an oil such as olive oil or castor oil. Baggy your hair no more than twice a week. Shampoo less frequently. Shampoo is full of chemicals and is drying to hair. When you must shampoo, try using a sulfate free shampoo, as sulfates (a foaming agent) are drying to hair. [1] X Research source When picking a shampoo, choose one that is marketed as moisturizing or contains products such as shea or argan oil. If your hair looks oily, try to remember that the natural oils produced by your scalp are moisturizing and healthy. Don’t be shy about using conditioner. Use a large dollop and apply generously, especially to brittle and fragile ends. If time permits, let it sit for five minutes in the shower before rinsing.
If you are experiencing redness or itchiness, don’t scratch. Try applying aloe vera to your scalp. Aloe is known for its cooling and de-itching properties. Simply rinse the gel from your hair after your scalp feels refreshed. Give your scalp an oil massage. Use a gentle oil such as almond or baby to gently massage your scalp. This will help open and relax pores, and will be calming to your skin. If you find traditional shampoo unbearable, try using baby shampoo. Extremely gentle and non-drying, baby shampoo is a great option if you find your scalp to be extremely sensitive after relaxing.
If on a budget, try a do-it-yourself mask of coconut oil. Gently massage two tablespoons of body temperature coconut oil into your damaged hair and wash with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner afterwards. If you can’t bear the oiliness in the daytime, try sleeping with the oil in and rinsing come morning. A hair mask containing clay will help heal and moisturize your scalp as well as your hair. If your scalp feels raw, clay’s antibacterial properties will help keep it clean and fight infection. [3] X Research source
Not a big meat eater? Try eating more dairy. Dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt have a high protein content but are also sometimes fortified with vitamin D. Though not enough research has been conducted, some users say vitamin D plays a role in increased hair growth. More protein doesn’t have to mean more meat. Legumes such as beans, peas, and peanuts are a high protein source. Have protein on the go. There is many breakfast or snack bars available in grocery stores which are protein-based. Bars are a filling way to get your protein on a tight schedule.
Be cautious about what you’re eating your iron with. Iron uptake can be halted by calcium, so don’t expect broccoli with cheese sauce to be efficient for your iron levels. [6] X Research source Try eating iron-sources solo, such as spinach salad loaded with fruits and vegetables.
Collagen is a major component in hair. Vitamin C aids in collagen production; this means your hair will be smooth and strong when you get more vitamin C. [8] X Research source Vitamin C is most commonly associated with oranges, but try snacking on kiwi, blueberries, or strawberries. Vitamin E can be taken as an oral supplement or applied as a liquid mineral oil. If you want to keep it natural and eat your vitamin E, the most efficient way to eat it is through nuts such as almonds, sunflower seeds, or peanuts.
After washing your hair and allowing it to air dry till damp, blow dry on the lowest heat setting. Dry for as short of time as possible to prevent excess damage. If you must speed up drying time, use a soft t-shirt to squeeze moisture out of your hair. The t-shirt will be gentler and more absorbent than your rough towel. Use a protectant spray if you must use heat tools. A heat spray contains proteins to coat the sheath of the hair and act as a buffer between your hair and heat tools.
Satin-covered rollers are a no-heat option. The rollers will lower the amount of frizziness, and the satin will prevent rubbing and tangling. Whenever using hair elastics, try to use no-damage bands. Many hair elastics are designed for less damage and ripping when used. Pick up some fashion friendly clips. Barrettes that are smooth with no teeth will prevent your hair from being damaged. Available in an assortment of styles, barrettes can be used to simply pin your hair away from your face or keep it up off your neck in a pony-tail style.
A professional can spot hair damage you might not be able to. Keep a pro on speed dial and get your hair trimmed regularly. Don’t be afraid to ask your stylist for tips and suggestions. After all, they are there to help you.
