Healthy Hair: A Guide to Fuller, Shinier, Stronger Hair

Different hair types require different care regimens, but one principle applies universally. It is important to show TLC in the hair. Here, discover the dos and don’ts to keep your hair healthy.

Do not over-process hair

“Overtreatment is bad for hair, regardless of hair color, texture, or genetics,” says Wattenberg. By way of background, over-treatment occurs when hair is bleached, or when hair dyes or relaxers are used inappropriately. ,” says Wattenberg. Disulfide bonds are the chemical bonds that hold hair proteins together, giving hair strength.

For example, one study found that bleaching or over-dying hair can damage the cuticle layer as well as weaken proteins and lose lipids.

Therefore, most experts recommend skipping bleach and extending the interval between color touch-ups (in winter, we recommend waiting 8-10 weeks).

Choose shampoo and conditionerof specific to your hair type

If you walk down the hair care aisle at your local store, chances are you’ll find products for every hair type (and every hair problem). And they are more than just gimmicks, after all. “These products are very professional and can make a big difference in the world,” he says Wattenberg. “Is your scalp dry or greasy?” Do you color your hair? Do you have dandruff? Be sure to choose shampoos and conditioners that are designed for you,” she says. We recommend using a special shampoo.

don’t dry your hair too much

Another way of overprocessing? Using hair dryers or hot styling tools too regularly. “Hair dryers, curling irons, and flat irons can burn your hair and scalp, and can cause hair to break or fall out,” says Wattenberg.

Previous studies have analyzed the effects of using a dryer at different temperatures, and have found that the higher the temperature of the dryer, the more damaged the surface of the hair. When using a hair dryer, the study authors suggest using it 15 centimeters away and at the lowest temperature to prevent as much damage as possible, and the device should not be left in one place for too long. Instead, move it in a continuous motion.

Protect your hair and scalp from the sun

When it comes to sunscreen, many people think about their skin (from face to toes), but have you ever thought about your scalp and hair? you should! “Color-treated hair can change color in the sun, but it can also burn your scalp,” says Wattenberg. , if you have baldness or parts in your hair, it won’t help protect you.

solution? “Wear a hat or use an SPF sunscreen designed for your scalp,” Wattenberg advises. Please give me. In addition to discoloring the hair, it can also weaken the cuticle and the strength of the hair fibers.

don’t skip conditioner

If you have a busy schedule, your shower may be rushed, but it’s still a good idea to make sure you’re conditioning your hair after every shampoo. is. It adds shine, strengthens hair, and may even reduce static electricity.

So a little conditioner is worth a good hair day. Follow the directions on the bottle.

Also, follow a shampoo and conditioner routine based on your particular hair. “How you style it depends entirely on your hair type and the style you want,” Lam says. “For example, if you have dreadlocks, you can wash them monthly, condition them regularly, and protect them at night, but if your hair is straight, this styling exercise will not result in healthy hair.” “But in general, you should wash and condition your hair as often as your style and hair type requires. This can be done daily, weekly, or monthly.” .”

protect hair while swimming

Swimming is great exercise, but spending enough time in the pool isn’t ideal for your hair. “The chemicals in the pool can dry out and irritate your hair,” says Wattenberg.

She recommends applying conditioner or wearing a hat before you dive in. Also, before conditioning, wet your hair first with fresh water to make sure it’s chlorine-free, not chemical-filled H2O. It is also wise to allow water to be absorbed by your hair.You can also purchase special shampoos and conditioners designed for swimmers. This helps replace some of the moisture your hair may have lost.

don’t brush your hair too hard

While you may want to remove every last tangle, over-brushing is not good for your hair, especially if you go all out to remove those knots.

Brush as gently as possible to prevent breakage. Ideally, use a wide tooth brush with smooth prongs (but ask your stylist if they have a special brush that works best for your hair type).

If you have long hair, hold it at the bottom and carefully brush it all the way to the ends, moving your hand up to brush the bottom.

Please do your own research on the product before purchasing it

A surprisingly long list of ingredients goes into making hair care products, but not all of them are healthy to say the least.

One study found a potential link between breast cancer and personal use of hair dye (i.e., over-the-counter products), but whether hair dye itself increases the risk of breast cancer remains to be seen. Further research is needed to understand.

In this study, white women who used permanent hair dye at least once every 12 months had a 9% higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to women who did not. A black woman who used permanent hair dye more than once in her month had a 45% higher risk than a black woman who didn’t use it. The study involved 46,709 participants.

The authors point out that chemicals in hair dyes may be involved in the development of breast cancer. To keep your hair (and your body) healthy, it’s a good idea to do a little research before buying hair products.

On the other hand, another larger, longer-term study showed no association between hair dyes and cancer risk.

The American Cancer Society notes mixed results.

Ask your hairstylist what is in the hair dye they use. Also, check out sites like the Environmental Working Group, which has a database of healthier hair products made without the most chemicals. Note, however, that some experts consider the Environmental Working Group’s views to be extreme on certain health issues.

Don’t get too long without a haircut

If your hairstylist suggests coming in for a haircut every few months, it’s not just to keep you as a regular customer. Split ends run up the shaft, weakening the hair and exposing it to moisture loss and tangles,” says Pacheco. Walker recommends cutting every six to eight weeks to prevent damage. To do.

The same goes for people who want to grow their hair out. “If you want your hair to grow longer, you may consider skipping trimming, but regular shaping and trimming will keep your hair fragile and thin while it’s still going through the growth process.” It can keep your hair strong and healthy, instead of it,” says Walker. add.

Consider silk pillowcases

Sleeping on silk pillowcases is trending right now, and for good reason. “I recommend that all hair types consider silk pillowcases to avoid disturbing the cuticles while sleeping,” says Pacheco. “This is especially beneficial for frizzy, frizzy, kinky and fragile hair types,” he adds.

Braids, cornrows, and weaves should not be too tight

If your hair is pulled too hard and it hurts, it may be damaged. If your stylist pulls your hair too tight, be sure to speak up and ask them to redo it. Repetitive tight braids and cornrows can cause permanent hair follicle damage, and over time your hair may not grow back.

go to a relaxer expert

Use caution when using relaxers. We recommend that you consult a professional who can ensure that the product is being applied in a safe manner. Do this about once every 2-3 months and only apply the relaxer to new hair (do not use it on already relaxed hair).

If you notice your hair breaking or falling out after treatment, you may want to avoid chemicals altogether.

“Too much heat and chemical treatments can stress any type of hair,” Lamb says.

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