Sangeeta Cavale Radhakrishna has some simple everyday hair care tips
Long hair has always been a symbol of feminine beauty. Some basic hair and scalp care will go a long way in keeping your long tresses healthy and lustrous. Scalp is just a continuation of the face and so it needs the same care - washing, massaging and nourishment.
Begin with diet
For long, shining tresses, first check your diet. Vitamin B Complex and elements like zinc and selenium help in hair growth. Gummies rich in vitamins are easily available and are quite tasty, but it’s always best to consult your doctor or dermatologist before consuming supplements.
Brush and comb
Your hair brush and comb should be kept clean and be of good quality. Brush or comb your hair with your head hanging down, working up from the base of the scalp. Brushing like this increases circulation and gives bounce to the hair. Don’t worry about all those strands on your brush, a normal person loses and replaces about 50 to 100 strands a day.
Home remedies work
Simple home concoctions go a long way in hair care. Here’s one - make a mix of equal
quantities of castor oil, almond oil and glycerine, add one teaspoon of vinegar and a few drops of sandalwood oil. Apply this on your hair and leave it on for half an hour. Wash with a shampoo and then use a conditioner.
Mild shampoos are better
Long hair looks bad if its greasy and limp. While you need to wash your hair frequently, always use a mild shampoo and cool water. Avoid hot water even in the winter. Essential oils, when added to the water, can be massaged into the scalp and hair before washing. After a shampoo, use a tablespoon of malt vinegar with a glass of water and three drops of Patchouli oil. Rinse through scalp and hair. Massage a bit and use daily in between washes.
If your scalp gets greasy, use hair oil only on the strands before a wash. You can try pre-conditioning for all hair types, especially dry and frizzy hair.
Just wet your hair about 70 per cent from mid length right up to the ends. Add a tablespoon of pure olive, almond or coconut oil after wetting it. Rub through well on hair strands only
and leave on for five minutes before washing.
Regular trims are a must
Regular trims are a must, and avoid blow-drying. If you need to, always use a low heat setting or cool air. Keep your scalp clean and dry to promote hair growth. You also avoid fungal and other scalp infections when you keep it clean and dry.
Avoid leaving long hair loose and open when outdoors, especially when it’s sunny or windy. Always tie up or use a scarf, especially when riding a bike or travelling in an autorickshaw.
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