Tend to Your Tresses
COMMON HAIR PROBLEMS AND HOW TO TREAT THEM
Follow expert advice on treating the most common hair problems.
HEAT DAMAGED HAIR
Heat damaged hair requires treatment at two levels. First the damaged hair follicles need to be treated and strengthened and second further damage needs to be prevented. Fine hair can be treated by using a mild shampoo and a leave- in serum after every wash. Thicker hair needs regular conditioning hair spas. Use a heat protectant before any styling is done on the hair. Never use any styling equipment hotter than 180 degrees.
UNRULY CURLS
The most important thing to remember about unruly curls is to get the right haircut. The hair should be cut in long layers or in one length. Avoid bangs, short layered haircuts and too much concentration on the crown when styling. Unruly curls are often a result of the hair’s natural texture, which is rough. That’s why the use of a good conditioner is crucial.
HAIR LOSS
Using the wrong hair products is not the only reason for hair loss. Stress, hormonal fluctuations, a vitamin deficient diet all add to the problem. It’s important to add protein and vitamin E to one’s diet for healthy hair. For chronic hair loss consult a doctor. Avoid using too much heat and styling products. While oiling and massages are good for preventing hair loss, often the effect of the oil is diminished when washing it off. The trick while using hair oil is to use less oil and better massage techniques to condition the hair follicles.
DRY HAIR
Dry hair explained in the simplest of terms is a lack of moisture. A few drops of almond or olive oil should be massaged onto the scalp for a few minutes just before shampoo. Heat, whether from styling equipments or the sun, is extremely damaging to dry hair. A heat protector, therefore, is crucial especially during the summer. A heat protector should become a part of regular hair care rather than only being used before styling.
GREASY HAIR
Greasy hair is a result of naturally produced excessive oil. In such cases, it’s important to keep the scalp clean. Avoid touching your hair frequently and tying and untying it throughout the day. Additionally, wash hair three times a week with a mild cleansing shampoo but don’t condition it every time. For women on-the-go, investing in a dry shampoo can prove to be an efficient and quick- fix solution.
GREY HAIR
While the greying of hair is a natural process caused by depleting levels of melanin, premature greying is linked to hereditary or health reasons. While colouring your hair is an obvious solution to premature greying, incorporating Vitamin B-12 in your diet can also help to maintain a natural colour for longer.
DANDRUFF
There can be several causes of dandruff which include a dry scalp, higher sensitivity to yeast and certain skin conditions like eczema. Using an anti- dandruff shampoo is a must. Shampoo regularly, as it helps maintain the PH level of the scalp. Brush your hair with a thick flat brush for a few minutes before sleeping every night since dandruff is often also caused due to a buildup of dead cells on the scalp. Brushing your hair can help remove these dead cells.