Healthy, full, glossy hair is never out of fashion, however it is having a moment du jour right now. Here are all the tips you need for having fantastic hair.
Regular treatments
There are plenty of treatments available now to help your hair live its best life. Lamellar treatments are perfect for when your hair needs a little extra TLC. They’re conditioning treatments which lock in moisture and repair your hair when you wash it. They can take as little as 10-15 seconds to take hold which make them perfect for when you’re short on time. Next on the list are colour gloss treatments. These take a little more time – but in return last longer too. They combine a conditioning treatment and at-home toner in one, leaving your hair shiner, and more vibrant (what’s not to love?) As a rule of thumb, add in a deep conditioning treatment once a week to provide extra moisture and nourishment to your hair. Be sure to choose a gentle shampoo and conditioner for your regular wash too, that match your hair type and are free from harsh chemicals. Avoid sulphates and parabens as they can strip your hair of natural oils.
In oil we trust
The second thing to invest in is a decent hair oil. These come in two main varieties, the first is a pre-shampoo oil treatment. These are scalp and hair treatments which provide extra moisture, protect while combating build up. Through protecting the hair they help to add to its overall strength and shine. The second to invest in – particularly if you’re suffering from dry hair – is an oil mist or shine serum. Natural ones tend to be best (think coconut oil, argan oil, or jojoba oil). These can add synthetic shine when you’ve finished styling your hair.
It’s all about the maintenance
Regular trims help remove split ends and keep your hair looking fresh and healthy. Aim to trim your hair every 6 to 8 weeks. Another thing to be aware of is that washing your hair everyday can strip it of its natural oils, making it dry and dull. Aim to wash your hair every 2-3 days, or as needed based on your hair type. After shampooing and conditioning, rinse your hair with cold water too, to seal the cuticles, making your hair appear smoother and shinier. When brushing be sure to use a soft-bristled brush and be gentle when detangling your hair, especially when it’s wet.
Preventative care
The best way to have healthy hair is to avoid damage at all cost. Minimise the use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. And when you do use them, apply a heat protectant spray to minimise damage. Also avoid over-processing. Limit the use of harsh chemical treatments like bleaching, perming, and colouring, as they can damage your hair. Be sure to protect your hair from the sun – as it doesn’t just damage your skin! When exposed to the sun, wear a hat or use hair products that contain UV protection to shield your hair from harmful UV rays.
Feed your hair from the inside
Eating a balanced diet has a multitude of benefits – including helping to fuel your hair from the inside. A nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins will promote healthy hair growth. Be sure to include foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean proteins in your diet. Similarly, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to keep your hair and scalp hydrated. Like maintenance and health in all other parts of your body, rest is key too. Getting adequate sleep is essential for overall health, including your hair’s health.
Image credit: Chanel
