HAIR HELPERS

To get great looking hair your diet has to be just right. ‘Hair thrives on energy and we get energy from our food,’ explains trichologist Iain Sallis. ‘So when your diet is either reduced or changed then it will have an effect on your hair, mainly by shedding more than normal.’ However you won’t notice any difference straight away. ‘Hair does not react immediately to stresses, so keep your eyes peeled for any shedding three months after Ramadan finishes.’ With that in mind, what should you be eating during it to maintain its health? ‘Iron and protein during your evening and morning meal, ideally from food but if that’s not possible then look for a supplement that includes both instead.’

Optimum scalp health is also essential. To keep it in tip top condition increase your consumption of green tea, it’s filled with polyphenols which, when consumed regularly, can protect your skin – scalp included – from free radical damage. It’s also good to use a detangling hairbrush, not just to get rid of any pesky knots but to use on the scalp as a massaging tool. This encourages blood flow and ensures the nutrients reach the hair follicles. Ideally, apply a hair oil all over your scalp first and then use your hairbrush to ensure it’s evenly spread and massaged in. Oil also provides extra hydration to the skin, helps prevent flakiness and also gives the root of the hair extra nourishment that it might not be getting from your body during Ramadan. Dry shampoo will also be your hair’s best friend during Ramadan, because when it comes to prioritising washing our hair over getting some sleep, we know which one we’ll be choosing!