Many people want shiny, healthy-looking hair, but achieving those conditions may take extra work. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dry hair occurs when hair lacks moisture and oil to maintain the normal sheen and texture. Sebum, the natural oil secreted by the scalp, helps protect the cuticle--the outermost layer of the hair shaft. When the cuticle peels away from the hair shaft, hair loses it shine and dries out, causing a dull appearance, according to KidsHealth from Nemours.
Hair Care
Avoid washing your hair every day. Every two to three days is sufficient and will help keep the needed moisture in your hair. In addition, use a shampoo and conditioner specifically for "dry and damaged hair," suggests Dr. Thomas Goodman, an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences.
According to HealthNews.com, you can add shine and moisture back to your hair by combining honey with oils such as almond, avocado, olive, rosemary, shea or burdock. In addition, applying mayonnaise or mixed egg yolks onto the hair and scalp causes a mess, but they make excellent conditioners.
Replace Heat With Rollers
Joanne Harris, a hairdresser from Los Angeles, suggests replacing heat styling tools, such as curling and straightening irons, that cause dry hair with old-fashioned rollers. Using unheated plastic cylinder rollers and sponge rollers for styling gives your hair a break from heat and allows the natural oils and moisture to remain in the hair strands.
Consult a Professional
If the home remedies are unsuccessful, consult a hair care professional who is knowledgeable in dry hair conditions. Salons or spas can offer various treatments that include deep conditioning, oil treatments and products suitable for your dry hair. In addition, implementing a haircut routine every 6 to 8 weeks helps alleviate dry and split ends.
Limit Environmental Damage
The sun, wind and dry weather are environmental elements that cause dry hair. According to FitnessMagazine.com, covering up with hat, spraying exposed hair or spraying hair with a UV protector will help prevent fading, dullness and split ends caused from the environment. (Reference 5) However, if you are planning on going swimming or to the beach, FitnessMagazine.com suggests using a conditioner that repels chlorine and salt water to prevent damage.
Medical Consultation
If you have persistent dry hair after trying over-the-counter hair products and home remedies, consult with a health care professional. Certain medical conditions such as anorexia nervosa, malnutrition and an underactive parathyroid or thyroid may be causing dry hair, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
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