What To Look For
Brittle hair with split ends and lackluster shine is a clear sign of dry, damaged hair. Summer heat, winter cold, hard water, daily maintenance and chemical treatments can cause extra dry hair. This problem can be remedied with the right shampoo and conditioner. Look for conditioning shampoos with a PH level of 4.5 to 5.5, especially if your hair has been treated with chemicals or coloring.
Conditioners should contain replenishing moisturizers and proteins to build strength within the hair shaft. Products that contain lanoline, panthenol, glycerin, lanoline, olive oil and silicone are all excellent for dry, damaged hair.
Common Pitfalls
Contrary to popular belief, pricey hair care products do not guarantee better results and one size does not fit all when it comes to hair care. it is important to use shampoos and conditioners specific to your hair type and needs.
According to hairstylecity.com, shampoo's main function is to blend dirt and oils in hair so they can be easily washed out. Chose a gentle shampoo so hair does not lose its natural oil. Dry hair should not be washed more than two or three times a week. Saturating hair completely with conditioner is more important than the length of time you leave it in on your hair, according to Glamour magazine.
Where To Buy
You can find shampoos and conditioners for dry hair in your local supermarket, drug store, hair salon or on line. Kerastase Nutritive Bain Oleo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo, Kiehl's Olive Fruit Oil Nourishing Shampoo and Pantene Pro V Shampoo were popular choices at consumerworld.com.
L'Oreal Vive Pro Dry/Damaged Hair Conditioner, Garnier Fructis Haircare Fortifying Cream Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair and Phyto Sesame Express Hydrating Conditioner for Dry Hair also rated high.
Cost
The price for moisturizing shampoos and conditioners range from $3 to $35. A 12.6 oz. bottle of Pantene Pro V Dry to Moisturized shampoo is $3.47 at Walmart and an 8.5 oz. bottle of Kerastase Nutritive Bain Oleo-Relax Smoothing Shampoo cost $34 at Kerastase.com. Kiehl's 8.4 oz bottle of Olive Fruit Oil Nourishing Shampoo is $18 at Kiehl.com.
Garnier Fructis Fortifying Cream Conditioner for Dry or Damaged Hair cost $4.99 at Target for a 25.4 oz. bottle, L'Oreal Vive Pro Dry/Damaged Hair Conditioner is also $4.99 for a 13 oz. bottle at Walgreens and a 5.7 oz. bottle of Phyto Sesame Express Hydrating Conditioner for Dry Hair can be found at Sephora.com for $28.
Insider Tips
Whenever possible, allow hair hair to dry naturally. Minimize the use of heated hair appliances and chemical treatments and deep condition hair once a week by applying a thick hair treatment and cover with a plastic cap for at least 20 minutes or longer. Avoid products that contain alcohol ,but products with peppermint, lavender and rosemary are good for scalp stimulation. Follow directions carefully; proper use of product is just as important as using the right product.
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