How To Keep Your Hair Healthier Than Ever
Keeping your hair healthy can be a struggle. Especially as colder seasons come around, your can be left feeling dry and brittle. Thankfully, these tips can help you transform your hair into silky and shiny locks that you deserve.
1. Limit Heat Styling
I know we’ve all heard this one before and it’s easier said than done. But it’s true, putting heat on your hair is one of the worst things you can do. This Fall is the perfect time to update your routine and decrease heat styling tools. This means ditching the blow dryer, straightener and curling iron as often as possible. I like to limit heat styling to 1-2x per month. I save straightening and curling my hair for super special occasions. When I do style my hair, I go a few days without washing it, so I can get the most out of my hair styling. I also completely stopped using my blow dryer, because it’s just an unnecessary step that creates damage. Air drying hair is hassle-free, but you just have to allow enough time for it. (picture from hercanvas.com)
2. Hair Masks
Hair masks are amazing. I recommend using one weekly to get the best results. I like to apply them to dry hair before going to bed. I simply brush through my hair, apply the mask all over and then put my hair in a loose top knot. I put a towel over my pillow and simply go to sleep with the product in my hair. Allowing your hair to absorb the mask as you sleep ensures that your hair is retaining all the moisture. The next morning, I wash out the mask and shampoo and condition as normal. If you don’t like the idea of sleeping with a hair mask in, you can simply put the mask on wet hair after shampooing and then wash it out in the shower. Either method will be beneficial to your hair. You can find great hair masks at the drugstore or opt for more higher-end products at Sephora or Ulta. My favorite cheaper alternative is Palmer’s Coconut Oil Formula Coconut Oil Deep Conditioning Protein Pack. This is sold in individual packets for around $2 at stores like Target. Each packet can last me about 2-3 uses, so this is a great bang for your buck. A higher-end option is the Olaplex Hair Perfecter No. 3 from Sephora. It strengthens hair and makes it look damage free. (picture from thefantasia.com)
3. Find A No Heat Style That Works For You
Not using heat on your hair can be extremely difficult, especially when you don’t love your natural hair. I personally have very curly hair and have a hard time managing it. The key is to find a hairstyle that works for you. There are so many options out there. I love pulling my hair into a low bun and leaving out a few strands near my face to create a low messy bun. Top knots are also cute. You can accessorize these looks with your favorite hair tie or scrunchie for added detail. I also like to create waves in my hair by braiding it when it’s wet and letting it down after it’s dried. Learning to work with your natural hair texture is also necessary. Spending the time to research the best products for your hair type will save you in the long run. Girls with curly hair can try different curl creams, gels and leave-in products to create frizz-free curls. Those with wavy hair can try sea salt sprays to accentuate their natural texture as well.
4. Get Regular Trims
Getting your hair cut is no fun when you just want to have long hair. But, it’s an essential part of maintaining healthy hair. I try to aim for getting my hair trimmed every 4-6 months. However, if you dye your hair or use a lot of heat, you might want to go more often. You don’t have to cut off a lot. 1/4″-1/2″ is usually enough to get rid of split ends and give you a fresh new look.
5. Take A Break From Dying
I know how much fun dying your hair can be. There are so many options from highlights to ombre to balyage. It’s almost impossible to not want to try out these new looks. But, it’s extremely important to give your hair a break. If you have been dying your hair consistently for a while, it almost definitely needs a break. Fall is the perfect time to let your hair fade back to its natural color. Keeping your hair natural will save your hair and can save you a lot of money as well, since appointments at the salon are expensive.
6. Don’t Over Wash Hair
Learning to go several days without washing your hair can be great for its health. I personally go 3-4 days before washing my hair. If you think this is impossible because you have greasy hair, you can train your hair. Gradually, you can increase the amount of days you go between washes and your hair will eventually get accustomed to it. Shampooing and conditioning too much can strip your hair of the oils it needs to be healthy and grow long. Going longer without washing your hair has many advantages. It maintains the health of your hair. It is also less time consuming and less of a hassle. If you heat style your hair, you can also extend the amount of time of your hairstyle.
