Long hair requires special care to keep it looking soft, shiny and healthy. The longer your hair gets, the longer it's been exposed to chemicals, environmental damage and styling. Gentle styling and care are essential, as your hair grows past your shoulders, bra strap or even your waist. Long hair requires extra moisture, and may benefit from protein treatments. Changes in your hair care routine, styling, and products can help your long hair be its best.
Step 1
Change your washing routine. If you've always washed your hair daily, start washing every third day or even just once a week with a gentle shampoo, recommends DailyGlow.com. Allow the natural oils from your scalp to protect your long hair. If you have very dry or curly hair, you may find that skipping the shampoo altogether helps your hair look its best, according to NaturallyCurly.com. Condition your hair every time you wash it or if you get it wet between washings.
Step 2
Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. You can remove knots and comb through your hair while the conditioner is on your hair or after it is rinsed. Blot your hair with a towel rather than rubbing to reduce the risk of breakage.
Step 3
Use deep conditioning treatments at least once a week, but more often if your hair is dry or already damaged, suggests DailyGlow.com. Purchase a deep conditioner or opt for a home hot oil treatment. Add a protein based hair treatment, such as mayonnaise or a purchased keratin treatment, to your hair care routine if your hair is damaged.
Step 4
Allow your hair to air dry as much as possible, recommends LongLocks.com. Replace damaging flat irons, blow dryers and curling irons with old fashioned rag roller sets, braids and buns. Make sure that hair elastics do not pull or snag hair and consider using hair sticks, pins and forks to reduce the overall risk of breakage and keep your long hair healthy. Wear your hair up at least some of the time to reduce the potential wear caused by daily life.
Step 5
Opt for gentler hair color, such as natural henna or a temporary color rather than damaging semi-permanent or permanent color. Use hair products without alcohol to avoid drying out your delicate locks. DailyGlow.com recommends that you protect your hair from sun or environmental damage with a hat or hair products with UV protection.
Tips and Warnings
- Get regular trims. Damage starts from the bottom up, so trimming during the growing-out phase is essential.
Things You'll Need
- Gentle shampoo
- Daily conditioner
- Deep conditioner
- Wide-tooth comb
- Hair safe accessories
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