Simple Healthy Hair and Scalp Tips
Your hair, and essentially your hairstyle, forms an indispensable part of your appearance, having the potential to change your overall look. While men are fortunate enough to get away with minimum hair care, women must regularly tend to their hair and scalp to keep them healthy. Remember, your hairstyle choices will be limited by the quality and health of your hair and scalp.
However, even for women, hair care should not be too daunting a task, which is why we have compiled this guide to hair and scalp care.
Instructions
-
1
Shampooing tips
A lot of people are under the misconception that shampooing hair every day is good for them. However, the fact is that daily shampooing is actually harmful for your hair, making them weak by washing away the natural oil produced by your scalp.
That oil (sebum) is responsible for nourishing your hair and providing much needed moisture for their strength. Ideally, you should only wash your hair twice a week, and if that is not enough, you can use a dry shampoo.
When you are shampooing, you should take a small amount of it and foam it up by rubbing it on wet hair. Do not scratch your scalp or scrub it, otherwise the skin on it will start flaking and hair will break.
Gently massage your scalp and make sure the shampoo reaches the underlying layers of your hair. Once your whole head is covered, you can rinse it gently but thoroughly under the shower and wash out the shampoo completely.
-
2
Conditioning Tips
Unlike shampoos, hair conditioners can be used on a daily basis to keep your hair healthy and shining. They not only nourish your hair but also counteract the drying effects of shampooing.
If your scalp is naturally dry, you can also use a leave-in conditioner to provide moisture and relieve dryness.
Finally, through trial and error, you can pick up on the right combination of shampoo and conditioner for your hair. Some brands offer both products, and they work well together.
-
3
Hair Drying Tips
After every wash you should either let your hair air dry or use a towel to pat them dry. Do not rub the towel onto your hair or scalp to prevent hair breakage and scalp irritation. If you have long hair you can hold them and glide the towel from top to bottom to soak the excess water.
If you prefer using a blow dryer, always set it on medium or low heat and don’t blow it near your scalp. Direct heat not only damages hair but also dries up the natural moisture. Ideally you should be holding the blow dryer at least 10 – 12 inches away from your hair and combing it alongside to dry your hair quickly and thoroughly.
-
4
Hair styling tips
You should avoid using hair styling gels and products as much as possible. A lot of these products are known to have damaging effects on your hair, and if you must use one, go for mousse and apply only the minimum necessary amount.
Moreover, you should also visit your stylist every four to six weeks and get your hair trimmed to remove split and bushy ends.
Some stylists use a razor to cut off strays and/or create choppy layers. If your stylist does this, ask him/her to stop and find an alternative. Using a razor weakens your hair and promotes breakage.
-
5
General tips for healthy hair and scalp
-Be particular about your water intake and make sure you always remain hydrated.
-Don’t use straightening irons and curlers frequently. The heat damages your hair.
-Use natural hair oils twice a month for a hair and scalp massage.
