No matter how carefully you care for your crowning glory, the weather can wreak havoc with your hair and summer time is probably the most damaging season of all. Dandruff, itchy scalp and dry, dull tresses are problems that those lovely long beach days bring. Keep your hair looking lustrous and beautiful all summer long with these top tips.
Keep it clean!
Dermatologists advise that cleanliness and hygiene should be top of your list when it comes to keeping your tresses in gorgeous condition. The techniques you use to do this are also important. If you do not wash your hair often enough and your scalp is not kept clean, the roots of your hair can weaken. This causes itchiness and scalp irritation which in turn worsens the condition and leads to hair to falling out.
Be careful with your choice of shampoo; you don’t want to remove all the natural oils that your scalp produces, only some of it. Daily shampooing is fine as long as you choose a mild shampoo that is formulated specifically for daily use but the best regime is to wash your hair three times a week. There are lots of products out there which contain herb extracts and natural substances which are much better for your hair than nasty chemicals – and they’re much better for the environment too!
Maintenance
Keeping your hair looking healthy and in good condition is all down to a good maintenance routine and making sure that you use the right products, according to trichologists. Use a wide toothed comb with a wooden base or a good quality plastic one. Never use rubber or metal combs and make sure that the comb’s teeth are not too pointed and sharp.
Always comb your hair from the ends first in a downward direction and only comb your hair when it is dry as hair is weakest when it’s wet. When your hair is wet, gently tease out tangles using your fingers.
It’s important to get your hair trimmed regularly to remove split ends. Long hair can begin to look thin and straggly if it’s not tidied up and breakage occurs more readily leaving your hair looking scruffy, even if you’ve just washed it.
If you can, avoid using a hairdryer as the heat is very damaging and can dry and dull your hair. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water and blot dry with a towel. Never rub your hair to dry it as this can cause damage and breakage. If you must blow dry or use straighteners or tongs, always choose good quality protective products. Avoid styling products that contain harsh chemicals or alcohol as these can damage your hair with prolonged use.
Diet
Diet can play an important role too in helping to keep your hair in good condition. Eating a protein-rich, balanced diet is the best way to go to keep your hair looking great.