Consider using ionic hairdryers. They infuse your hair with negatively-charged ions, which help seal moisture into your hair. [1] X Research source Use a lower heat setting or temperature on your hairdryer, straightener, or curling iron. It will take longer to get the style you want, but it will be kinder to your hair. Don’t blow dry, straighten, or curl your hair every day. Even with a heat protection spray, too much heat can be damaging. Experiment with different hairstyles, such as natural curls, braids, ponytails, etc.
Avoid washing your hair with hot water. Hot water can strip your hair (and skin) of its natural oils and moisture, leaving it feeling dry and dull. Silicones may help make your hair look shiny and smooth, but they can only be removed with sulfates. If you don’t remove them properly, they will lead to build-up, which can cause your hair to look limp and dull. Sulfates are harsh, cleaning agents found in many household cleaners. They are great at removing silicones, but they also leave hair feeling brittle and dry.
Take care of how you wash your hair. Use shampoo mostly on your scalp, and conditioner mostly on the ends of your hair. If you have thick, coarse hair, consider using a regular, rinse-out conditioner first, and then applying a leave-in conditioner after you step out of the shower. [3] X Research source If you have mature hair, leave a deep conditioner in your hair (under a plastic shower cap) overnight. Wash your hair with shampoo and conditioner in the morning as usual. [4] X Research source Co-washing is great for curly hair since it will keep your curls hydrated and make them less frizzy.
Consider an ammonia-free hair color. You will likely have to go to a salon to get it professionally done, but it will be much kinder and gentler on your hair. If you have mature hair, use a hydrating/moisturizing hair dye. Consider getting a balayage done instead of regular highlighting. Balayage highlights your hair only from midway down. Because the roots are left natural, you don’t have to do touchups as often. It also looks more natural. Consider a chemical-free relaxer. It will still be harsh on your hair, so it is best not to do it too often, but it will be gentler than the usual chemical method.
Apply a rich, conditioning cream and a swim cap before going swimming. This will keep your hair from drying out in chlorinated water. Use a rich, moisturizing conditioner during the winter. Add a deep-conditioning treatment once a week to your hair care regime for extra hydration.
If you need to, use a detangling spray or cream to make brushing easier.
If you have very thick or very long hair, you may need to use more oil. To make the mask even more effective, sit under the hot sun or a dryer. The heat will help your hair absorb the oil better. Alternatively, you can apply the oil to your hair, wear a plastic shower cap, and sit under a hair dryer for a similar effect.
If you don’t have any coconut oil, you can use olive oil instead. Honey is wonderful for hair because it helps seal in moisture.
The banana in this mask will help restore your hair’s elasticity and prevent breakage.
In addition to vitamins, make sure that you also get enough of beta-carotene, folic acid, magnesium, and sulfur in your diet.
