Whether your hair is long or short, curly or straight, you need to know how to take care of it properly so it can look at its best. To take care of your hair, you really need information more than you need expensive products. Read on to learn the basics of hair care.
Pay attention to dry skin, especially on or near the scalp. If you have very dry skin, you may also have very dry hair. In order to combat this problem, try washing your hair only a few times a week, or using a moisturizing hair product. Avoid using heat or harsh chemicals on dry hair.
Prevent sun damage to your hair, by looking for products that contain sunscreen. The sun can be damaging to your hair and eliminate any benefits you may gain from your care routine. When you protect your hair, it will have longevity and will also be able to avoid lightening because of the sun.
To give your hair that look that says you just came out of the ocean, look for products that can mimic this look. Most of these products will contain salt or some other form of sodium. To create your own version of this solution, simply combine a teaspoon of salt and one cup (eight ounces) of water. You should then put in around 10 drops of essential lavendar oil, there it is, the ocean!
When selecting a brush, you should choose one that is made from natural animal hairs, as opposed to one made from synthetic materials. The bristles on the natural brushes will be more soft and flexible, so it will be less likely to cause any damage to your hair, if you use it regularly.
When you wash your hair, be sure to really clean your scalp. The shampoo that you use will remove the buildup of dead skin, oil, dirt and hair products that could be clogging your hair follicles. If your follicles begin to become clogged, you may start to suffer from hair loss or slowed growth.
A permanent wave can be a great way to add volume and texture to thin, flyaway hair. A permanent can also provide the foundation for curls that will hold better and last longer, after roller setting or styling. Permanents are available in many different forms, suitable for any length and type of hair.
Natural animal hair brushes are the best choice when it comes to brushes for your hair. The bristles are softer and will flex more. The flexible brushes will cause less damage than using a brush that has stiff, plastic bristles on it. Be sure to choose one that also has smooth tips on it.
Check hair care products before you buy them as they may contain harmful ingredients and chemicals. Avoid alcohol in gels as it will dry your hair. Parabens, which are found in many products, have a possible link to cancer. Mineral oil may also be another carcinogen and glycerin may actually dry instead of moisturize.
Brushing your hair allows you to spread the oils along the length of your hair. You should start at the top of your hair and brush it in long stroke that the oil are evenly spread out. Your hair will look healthier and shiny if you do this every day.
You may think it counter-intuitive, but your hair is the most delicate when it is wet. Avoid brushing and combing your hair until it has dried fully. Otherwise, your hair will look frizzy, dull, and angry. Furthermore, you risk extensive damage and breakage when brushing your hair while it is wet.
While an old wives tale states that you must brush your hair for one hundred strokes every day to achieve health, this is untrue. The only thing you will achieve by brushing this often is an overstimulated scalp that produces too much oil and makes your hair look oily and flat. Only brush until the tangles are removed.
To have the healthiest hair possible, stay away from exposing it to harsh chemicals. This includes exposure to hair-relaxing solutions (often lye-based), heat-styling products, alcohol based products, and even the chlorine in swimming pools. With prolonged exposures, these chemicals can really take the shine right out of your hair.
If product buildup is a problem, then a little baking powder might be a great solution. With all the fancy gels, mousses and sprays that have been created for trendy styles, it is easy for product buildup to take over and diminish the effectiveness of your shampoo. Just add a tablespoon of any brand of baking soda to your favorite shampoo and rinse the residue down your drain. Once a week should be all that it takes to keep your hair fresh and clean.
If you use a lot of styling products, add baking soda to your hair cleaning routine. Once a week mix 1 tablespoon of baking soda in with your shampoo. Wash your hair with this mixture and proceed with your routine as usual. This will help get all of the styling product build up out of your hair.
Do you want to hold your hair in place, but want a finish that is soft? Instead of spraying your hair with the hair spray, spray it into the palm of your hands and then rub it over your hair. This will give your hair a finished and soft look while controlling flyaways.
Do not wash your hair immediately following having your hair colored. Wait at least a full 48 hours after getting your hair colored to wash your hair. When your hair gets wet it opens the cuticle. So it is best to leave it dry, allowing your hair to seal in the color.
Hair care principles help you take care of your hair regardless of what type of hair you have. Now that you’ve read this article, you should understand what you need to do in order to keep your hair looking at its best. Good luck, and enjoy your new, healthier hair.
