Hair Health 101

TLC for healthy hair doesn’t end with conditioner. Make sure that you are properly taking care of your hair with not only your choice of products and hair accessories, but also the food you eat!

In the Shower

As with many things pertaining to health, it is better to go natural. Did you know that shampoos contain cleansers that may be doing more harm to your hair than good? Choose shampoos that have naturally-derived cleansers because these are less apt to strip your hair of vital oils.

To get the maximum benefits of your shampoo and conditioner, rub them into your palms first. Then massage onto the roots of your hair, then on the crown and finally, down the sides of your hair.

Most hair experts discourage shampooing every day, since this can dry your hair and scalp. You can aim for two to three times a week, using a non-slip headband to keep your hair up when you shower. On off-days, use conditioner only, so that your hair does not get greasy.

You can also give yourself scalp massages, which stimulate the blood flow and help nutrients get to your hair follicles.

When Styling

More often than not, this is where the most damage occurs. Unless you were born with fabulous hair that falls perfectly in place each and every time (right!), the chances are that you use products and tools to style your hair.

When using a blow-dryer, remember that it was designed to be held high above your hair and moved around so that your hair does not get burned. Since it is likely that you do not have a personal stylist to help you blow-dry your hair, you can prevent burning by simply removing the nozzle. This will diffuse the heat but still give you the same effect (as long as you're pointing your dryer downward). To be extra safe, treat damp hair with a heat-protective spray before blowing dry.

Using hair products with silicone in them can suffocate the strands. Such products can be great for preventing frizz and enhancing shine, but avoid applying them before heat-styling. Otherwise, they can fuse themselves to your hair and sap out the moisture.

Of course, your safest bet for styling is to simply add hair accessories! Look for good brands that have sophisticated hair clips made for a soft hold without snagging your hair. Some are even lined with plush velvet for a soft clamp that is still guaranteed to stay in place.

In the Kitchen

Sometimes, losing hair means that you’re not getting enough nutrition. Nutritionists say that the best follicle fuels are omega-3 fatty acids (found in some fish) and protein (found in nuts and cheese).

At the Salon

Contrary to popular belief, dyeing your hair more often (say, every 28 days) can actually help prevent chemical damage. Coloring can make the ends less likely to fade, and the stylist won't have to leave the dye on your hair as long.