JOIN USHair care has become tricky business in today’s age. Pollution and lifestyle factors have made problems like hairfall, dandruff and dryness a norm and the fact that most products in the market are high on chemicals only worsens our plight. Here are a few ways in which you can care for your tresses and better protect them from environmental effects.
Dandruff is one of the most common problems that men and women alike face today. It is usually the result of fungal or bacterial infection of the scalp that leads to dryness, itchiness and dead skin falling off in the form of scales. While there is no permanent cure to the condition, with the help of medicated shampoos and home remedies, you can control dandruff.
Contrary to what the advertisements will have you believe, shampoos are not good for your hair. Soaps are better, as their particle size is much bigger and are thus easier to completely rinse off. But if you must, pick up mild shampoos with a sulphate-free detergent base. Make sure that they do not contain parabens.
While applying oil is important, using the right technique and the right kind of oil matters. To promote hair growth and prevent split ends and premature greying, massage oil into your scalp and leave it on overnight. In the morning, wash it off with warm water.
Coconut oil is the solution to many hair problems. Massage it into your scalp and wrap a hot, wet towel around your head. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and wash it off.
Mix one tsp of almond oil with two drops of vitamin E oil, one drop of tea tree oil, one drop of pacholi oil and one drop of basil oil. Use it to massage your scalp and wash off in the morning for stronger, thicker, softer hair.
Always use lukewarm water while washing your hair. Cold water in winter can lead to dry, dull and brittle hair, while hot water will remove the essential oil (sebum) from your scalp, leaving it dry, rough and unmanageable.
The role of conditioner in hair care cannot be ignored. However, avoid leave-in conditioners as they contain silicon oil that can damage your scalp in the long run. Prefer a good rinse-off conditioner that has natural ingredients.
Mix one tsp of curd, one tsp of amla, one tsp of shikakai, half a tsp of tulsi, pudina and methi paste each and apply on your hair as a pack. You can also blend the egg white with your daily shampoo while washing.
A balanced diet will provide your body with essential nutrients, which will in turn strengthen your hair. Eat foods that are rich in vitamins H, B5, K and B12.
Have sprouts thrice a week. But do not have it with salt or ketchup. Instead, use a little bit of lemon juice and pudina chutney to flavour the salad.
Early morning walks can destress you and get you your daily dose of vitamin D from the morning sun. This, when paired with a healthy calcium intake, can strengthen your bones as well as hair.
(The author is founder of Chase Aromatherapy Cosmetics and Skincare Institute, New Delhi)