Hair is important to a woman's appearance, so taking care of it is a good idea. Your hair-care routine may consist of shampooing and conditioning, but these two steps alone will not give you the healthy head of hair that you want. Hair is made of a protein called keratin. You need to provide your tresses with the right amount of protein. Protein strengthens the hair shaft, helping to reduce breakage. Providing your hair with regular protein treatments will not only help mend split ends, but also give your hair shine and body.
Step 1
Eat protein- and vitamin-rich foods. Your hair grows 1/4 to 1/2 inch every month, and the structure of all new hair is based on what you eat, according to Chicago dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner. Eating foods such as salmon, nuts, eggs, poultry and beans will strengthen your hair from the inside out. For example, salmon is packed with essential omega-3 fatty acids that promote scalp health, which can prevent your hair from looking dull. Eggs are one of the best proteins that you can eat. Regardless of how you cook your eggs, you can benefit not only from the protein, but also from the biotin and vitamin B12.
Step 2
Apply coconut oil to your hair. In a study published in a 2003 "Journal of Cosmetic Science," coconut oil was found to reduce protein loss in hair when used as a pre-wash or post-wash. To use coconut oil as a pre-wash, part your hair into four sections and apply a generous amount to each section. Let it sit for 30 minutes and then wash it out. For a post-wash, rub a quarter-size amount to your hair after styling it.
Step 3
Give hair that's breaking a protein treatment. Coconut milk and eggs are natural protein conditioners. Coat your hair with coconut milk or one beaten egg. Let it sit for 20 minutes before rinsing out. Follow with a deep conditioning. Rinse this out after 30 minutes.
Things You'll Need
- Coconut oil
- Coconut milk
- Egg
- Deep conditioner
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