A gorgeous, new hairstyle can really set off that little black dress and give you the confidence you need to light up a room. Taking care of that new “do” can be just as important because healthy hair is beautiful hair.
First and foremost, it is important to eat a healthy diet, rich in vitamins, to promote optimal hair health. B vitamins help restore hair shine and thickness to strands; iron carries vital oxygen to hair and, like zinc, promotes hair growth; and vitamins E and D also work toward keeping hair healthy.
It is just as important to know when to wash your hair. Many people make the mistake of washing their hair too often. For most people, twice a week is adequate. The longer, thicker and more processed hair is, the longer it should go between washes. Use shampoos and conditioners that are suited to your hair type. If your hair is oily and you need to wash it more frequently, be sure to use a lightweight shampoo.
Always use conditioner when after shampooing. Conditioner will moisturize your help, help prevent damage and make hair easier to comb. Use a leave-in conditioner once a week for deep penetration into hair follicles and more complete healing.
Water temperature can also have a significant effect on hair health. Hot water can leave hair overly porous, resulting in dry or brittle hair. It can weaken hair at the roots and cause breakage. Heat can also rob hair of natural oils, causing frizz. Warm water can be more beneficial. It allows dirt and accumulated hair product to be rinsed away without the damage that hot water can cause. Cold water can also be very good. It closes pores and prevents dirt and hair products from entering and accumulating on the scalp. It also closes hair cuticles, sealing in moisture. A cold water rinse can increase shine and smooth hair, but be careful…it can also flatten hair. If your hair lacks volume or you have naturally thin hair, you may want to avoid this.
Also keep in mind that wet hair is more susceptible to breakage than dry hair, so use a wide tooth comb instead of brushing after shampooing. Also, do not rub wet hair with a towel. Gently blot instead, as rough towel drying can cause damage.
