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Hair care for healthy locks

Last Updated 31 May 2013, 13:09 IST

Through proper care using simple techniques and the right maintenance products, anyone can have beautiful and healthy locks.
Finger Raking:

Upon waking, use the back of the hand, run fingers through hair to remove tangles.

Brushing: Bend forward, allowing hair to fall. Using only a wooden base natural bristle brush, bring hair from the nape of the neck over the head and down to the ends. Then, stand straight again with hair falling normally and brush from the underside of the hairline down the strands to the ends. Now, brush the top layers into place with long, even strokes. After each stroke, smooth hair with hands to reduce static. Increase the number of strokes every week, starting with five and increasing by one a week until you find a comfortable routine. If oiliness develops, reduce strokes.

Brush only when dry. Hair is weakest when it is wet and brushing can easily damage it. Even when hair is dry always comb before brushing.

Combing: Separate hair into small sections. With a wide-tooth comb, carefully work from the ends in a downward direction only. Use only a wooden or tortoise shell comb – never rubber or iron. Make sure the ends of the comb are not pointed. Do not pull or yank hair.

Shampooing: Basic hair care starts with clean hair. Too much cleansing, however, can be damaging. The scalp produces an oily substance called sebum, which coats each hair, and keeps it looking shiny and soft. It is important to choose a shampoo that removes just the right amount of oil. Use a scalp cleanser that is designed to remove toxins from your hair like chlorine as well as auto emissions and other environmental pollutants. Daily shampooing is not a problem as long as the shampoo is formulated for daily use. After washing, gently towel-dry your hair. Avoid using a blow dryer. Rather, gently squeeze excess water from your hair and blot it with a towel.

Blow-drying: Never comb or brush wet hair, as it is more susceptible to stretching and breaking when wet. Finger-comb it in gentle massage-like movements. Wait until it is damp before styling.  

Trimming: Have hair trimmed on a regular basis (approximately every two months). This is especially important for growing out layers. 

Conditioning: Condition your hair by oiling it regularly. While oiling has been a part of an Indian woman’s hair care regime and was in part, responsible for the lustrous quality of her hair, due to a fast paced lifestyle and the dictates of fashion, it is losing popularity. Oil your scalp every alternate day to stimulate blood flow and relieve stress. Sluggish blood flow and stress can both cause hair loss. Use Jaborandi hair oil to massage your hair once a week, leave overnight and wash off the next day. 

Styling: Your hairstyle is a reflection of your personality and a wonderful way to express your individuality. All too often conventional styling products contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals. These ingredients are used to keep the hair in place and to give the appearance of shiny healthy hair. Avoid excessive dry heat, such as that from blow dryers and curling irons.

Diet: Eat a balanced and sensible diet to ensure you are getting essential nutrients.

Remember that your hair is a natural reflection of your health and well being. So if you are unhealthy, your hair will lack the look you desire. 

Treat your body with care, follow a proper hair care program and supplement your diet with balancing vitamins and a drop of patience, and your hair will look good and feel great.

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(Published 31 May 2013, 13:09 IST)

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