Nourishment is essential to beautiful locks. A diet rich in proteins, vitamin C, biotin, iron and zinc all play an essential part in producing vibrant locks.
Maintaining healthy hair requires using quality shampoo, leave-in conditioner and scalp massage treatments. Avoiding harsh chemicals in shampoo formulation and selecting conditioner that is sulfate-free are also vitally important steps towards healthy locks.
Oiling
Oiling hair has long been known to create thick and luxurious locks. Massaging the scalp with nourishing oils regularly can improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth while strengthening and frizz-preventing strands, making them more resistant to damage and breakage.
Balagam suggests leaving hair oil treatments on for 30 to an hour to achieve optimal results, though you should apply it during both daytime and overnight applications. Select the oil most suited to your needs: it should be slightly warmer than body temperature so it can easily penetrate both scalp and hair shafts; or you could add an absorption booster like wrapping your locks in a towel or shower cap for maximum absorption.
Start by massaging the oil into your scalp in circular motions, working it down your strands while paying special attention to their ends. Leave this treatment in for up to an hour, before washing out with lukewarm water when ready.
Trimming
Trimming your hair regularly can improve its nourishment by preventing split ends from cropping up, giving your locks a healthier look that boosts confidence and fuller locks. Furthermore, use a clarifying shampoo to wash away product buildup, and gently massage your scalp daily for several minutes as part of a treatment to increase blood flow to follicles that may promote faster hair growth rates. Also try not heat styling too frequently.
Drinking Water
Water is essential for overall health, but many don’t realize its vital role in hair health as well. Drinking plenty of water nourishes hair from within and can help avoid many scalp and hair conditions such as itching, dandruff and dry or brittle locks.
Hydration helps your body deliver more key nutrients that promote hair growth, such as those found in food sources like vegetables. Drinking enough water maximizes their absorption.
Hydration is essential to our health – including that of our skin, hair and organs. When dehydrated, hair becomes dry and brittle leading to breakage and damage. Consuming more fluids such as fruit-infused water, coconut water or herbal teas may help improve hydration; avoid drinks with added sugar as these may be drying – water that is unsweetened is always best! Staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to support hair health!
Applying Masks
An intensively nourishing hair treatment mask can make a world of difference for color treated or damaged locks. Not only will it prevent future breakage and encourage longer growth, it will also hydrate and de-frizz for smoother locks.
As there are various kinds of hair masks on the market, it is essential that you select one suitable to your individual hair needs and concerns. Some rinse-out masks must be applied when your locks are damp while leave-in treatments can help strengthen dry or damaged strands.
DIY masks made from fruits and vegetables such as bananas, avocados or eggs can hydrate and add nutrients to your strands while simultaneously treating dandruff and dry scalp conditions. Michelle Cleveland suggests applying a castor oil hair mask, starting from your scalp down towards your ends for maximum effectiveness.
