Well cared for hair is instantly noticeable. Healthy hair is shiny, thick and full of movement. With the overuse of dryers, straighteners and perms, along with styling gels and mousses, healthy hair is often compromised for the sake of style. Dull hair, hair loss, split ends and frizz, which can also be the result of a poor diet and pollution, are all signs that hair needs special care. Choosing appropriate hair therapy treatments according to your hair type and lifestyle is essential for turning the tables around and restoring a gorgeous mane.
Proper Diet
The best hair therapy treatment begins with proper diet. Eating fresh vegetables and fruits as well as foods high in protein, such as eggs, furnishes the scalp and hair with necessary vitamins and minerals for optimum health. According to holisticonline.com, an online site dealing with natural health care, hair health starts from within. Some of the most essential elements for creating shiny tresses are the omega 3 fatty acids, which help counteract brittle, dry hair. These fatty acids are found in flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, and salmon oil. Vitamin B complex helps to maintain healthy hair as well as promote hair growth. Biotin, one of the B vitamins, is often found in hair care products as it helps to strengthen hair follicles. Some foods containing biotin are brewers yeast, brown rice, lentils, oats, sunflower seeds, green peas and walnuts. Vitamins C and E help to increase circulation in the scalp, which also encourages hair growth and health. Beta-carotene, found in carrots and other brightly colored vegetables and fruits, helps keep hair shiny.
Conditioning
After shampooing the hair, a good conditioner is helpful for moisture and protection. All shampoo must be thoroughly rinsed out so as not to leave residue that can clog hair follicles. Chose a high-quality conditioner that is appropriate for your hair type, be it normal, dry, oily, or course. If you are not sure, consult with your hair stylist who should be able to diagnose your hair needs. A leave-in conditioner is helpful for hydrating overly dry hair, protecting the follicles in the same manner that facial and body moisturizer protects the skin. Spread the conditioner evenly throughout your hair, making sure not to cover the roots so that this area can breathe.
Hair Masks
For deep conditioning, a hair mask helps to add extra moisture while removing excess dirt and oil from the scalp. A good mask will help with dryness and flaking, while providing locks with extra shine. Some good hair masks can easily be made at home:
Mix one egg with water and work through the hair. Cover with a plastic shower cap or plastic wrap and leave on for 15 minutes. Shampoo out and rinse.
Mix 3 tbsp. of olive oil with 2 tbsp. of honey and work through the hair. Cover and leave on for 15 minutes. Shampoo out and rinse.
Spread softened coconut butter throughout the hair and leave in for an hour. Shampoo out and rinse.
There are many good packaged hair masks on the market for various hair types. Speak with your stylist if you are not sure which hair mask to try.
Rinses
Rinsing the hair helps to cleanse each follicle of excess shampoo and conditioner. Using a half cup of apple cider vinegar mixed with water helps to seal the hair shaft. Herbal rinses for normal hair can be made with chamomile, red clover or horsetail. Dry hair does well with chamomile, comfrey root or elder flowers. For oily hair, nettle leaves, peppermint, or lemongrass are effective. For course or curly hair, use nettle leaves, rosemary leaves or comfrey leaves. The best way to prepare a rinse is to simmer the herb in boiling water for a few minutes and then let stand for a half hour to intensify and cool. Rinse shampooed and conditioned hair with your herbal brew and let your mane dry naturally for an optimum hair therapy treatment.
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