LOVE IS IN THE (H) AIR: TAKE SPECIAL CARE IN SUMMER
Keep those lustrous locks shining even in the scorching weather with a proper diet and good haircare regime
Think summer and one immediately visualises vibrant outfits, stylish sunnies and beach waves. However, exposure to the scorching sun all day long also leads to a host of hair woes, including split ends, greasy scalp, dandruff and so on.
“During summers, our hair follicles enter a resting phase known as telogen effluvium, which may lead to hair fall. Apart from this, dehydration, sweating, humidity, exposure to sun could lead to an increase in hair fall. Water sports or activities such as swimming can be a reason for hair loss too, as the high amount of chlorine present in water damages the hair, making it look dry and dull,” says dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, Dr Syed Nazim Hussain.
Overexposure to the harsh rays of the sun, experts say, is among the major causes of hair damage, during this time of the year. “Sun exposure can cause frizz. This happens when our hair’s outermost layer, the cuticle, isn’t sealed all the way, causing moisture to seep in. In order to manage frizz and keep the hair sleek, the cuticle must lay flat. Leave-in products that contain protein — such as wheat, yogurt, collagen or silk — can help strengthen porous cuticles,” says senior consultant dermatologist, Dr Ekta Nigam.
However, the biggest enemy, according to experts, is our tendency to go overboard when it comes to washing hair. “If it’s more than two to three times a week, you’re probably drying out your scalp. This causes the scalp to produce more oil to compensate. It might take a month or two to fully regulate the oil production, so in the meantime, try to cut back on hair washing and opt for dry shampoo between washes,” suggests Nigam.
Agrees dermatologist Dr Pooja Chopra, who says, “Keep your hair healthy by using a shampoo catering to your hair type. There is no need to shampoo your hair every day. Make sure you use a conditioner and avoid using heating devices as far as possible.”
While regular oiling is imperative, what goes into the body on a day-to-day basis can go a long way in keep the hair healthy. “One must consume a balanced diet, comprising iron-rich items such as spinach, biotin-rich walnuts, protein-rich lentils, vitamins A and C. Remain hydrated at all times, increase omega 3, 6, 9 in your body with flax seeds and basil seeds, consume one avocado per day, and stay away from refined sugar,” says cosmetic surgeon Dr Geeta Grewal.