First impressions count, your hair can be one of the first things people notice. We all want beautiful hair. And for you to have beautiful hair, you must know the importance of proper scalp and hair care.
Proper scalp and hair care can help you avoid extensive damage which can lead to flaking and hair loss. Of course, there are medical treatments that can help you with maintaining healthy hair – check over here and learn more about these innovative treatments. But to keep your hair well treated and to look its best every day, here’s a guide we prepared for you. Below are the necessary dos and don’ts that you should be aware of to keep your hair in tiptop shape.
Dos and Don’ts When Shampooing The Hair
Do wash your hair regularly. Keep the scalp clean to ensure healthy hair growth. Shampoo your hair for not more than three times a week.
Do evenly apply shampoo on your scalp and hair. Focusing on one area won’t do any good.
Do have the habit of buying and using a detoxifying shampoo once a week for deeper cleansing of the scalp. Make sure to use products that can boost hair health, hydrate the scalp, and eliminate residue. Products that contain ingredients such as chamomile extract, witch hazel, and eucalyptus oil can offer the necessary deep cleaning effects that the hair and scalp needs.
Do cleanse your hair with the right products whether you have dry or oily hair. People with dry hair may need to use moisture-drenching shampoo. For oily hair, shampoos and hair products with purifying and oil-regulating factors can help a lot.
Do buy good quality clarifying shampoo. It may not be designed to be used frequently, but such shampoos work to remove any build-up of chemicals and residue on the scalp. Hair specialists recommend using clarifying shampoo a few days before you undergo a hair color treatment.
Don’t apply too much shampoo, especially on your hair. Whatever shampoo you will use on your hair and scalp, only a nickel-size amount of shampoo is necessary to cleanse everything thoroughly. Add water to lessen its intensity.
Don’t be rough on your scalp. First, focus on the scalp area. Massage the scalp while doing so. Shampooing the hair from the middle or bottom part of the hair strand will only cause tangling. Gently run your fingers through your hair as it cleanses it without causing any damage to the hair.
Don’t leave your hair uncleansed for more than three days as it can cause excessive oil build-up on the scalp causing the follicles to clog up. This occurrence can cause scalp issues like redness, flaking, and itching.
Dos and Don’ts When Conditioning The Hair
Do apply conditioner on your hair every after shampooing. This step helps to hydrate the hair and keep it supple. For people who color their hair, applying the right kind of conditioner will help to prevent the hair color from fading away.
Do evenly distribute the conditioner throughout your hair by combing your hair with your fingers from the top strand going to the bottom strand. Make sure to avoid the scalp as it can cause some build-up. Apply the conditioner near the ends where the hair may appear dry.
Do buy and apply a conditioning mask on your hair once a week. Doing so can help with the deeper hydration of the hair as it leaves it strong and shiny.
Don’t apply silicone and paraben based conditioners. They may have the ability to coat the hair temporarily, but it causes the hair to weigh down. Also, silicones can attract air pollution, which can cause the hair to lose its shine.
Don’t rinse off the conditioner right after applying it. Leave it on for at least two to five minutes (depending on your hair type and condition) to ensure the complete absorption of the conditioner and the complete moisturization of the hair.
Dos and Don’ts When Brushing The Hair
Do brush the hair in the morning as it helps to remove unnecessary dead skin, dust, and dirt on the scalp and hair. It also massages the scalp. Doing so will stimulate blood flow and distribute sebum throughout the hair shaft.
Do allow your hair to dry on its own or as naturally as it can. Avoid using any heat-delivering hair devices like hair blowers and flat irons. Such equipment can cause damage to the hair and causes it to become more fragile. Use an absorbent towel to dry out your hair and finger dry.
Do brush the hair before going to bed at night. People with longer hair can brush from the base of the head going down. Do this brushing strokes while tilting your head forward. Doing so can add body to your hair.
Don’t brush your hair when it is wet. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb. Start by combing your hair from the base of your head and gently work your way down to the bottom strands.
Don’t forget to clean the combs and brushes you use by removing the hair strands. Also, soak your comb and brush in warm, soapy water once a week to eliminate any bacteria.
Other Dos and Don’ts
Do keep your scalp nourished by applying essential oils on it once or twice a week (depending on your hair condition). Massaging your scalp with oil can help soften and strengthen the hair, especially the greying ones. Extra virgin olive oil, almond oil, and coconut oil are the best kinds of oil that will work effectively on your scalp. You can apply the oil by soaking it on a cotton ball and dabbing it on your scalp. Leave it on for thirty minutes then wash it off with warm water. The last step is to rinse your hair with cold water to flatten its cuticle. After continuously doing this, you will get smoother and softer hair that is easier to manage.
Do eat nutritious foods, especially those that are rich in hair enhancing fatty acids like fish which contains omega-3 fats. The condition of your hair may reflect on your inner health, and having a healthy diet will result in healthier and stronger hair.
Do wet the hair before diving into the pool with its chlorinated water. As the hair absorbs the regular water from the shower, it helps to block the damaging effects of the chlorinated water while you swim. Another thing you can do is to wear a swimming cap.
Do wash your hair after swimming. Leaving your hair with chlorine can cause a lot of damage to the hair as chlorine can be a strong substance.
Do have a haircut once in a while. Doing so can remove any split ends.
Don’t stay under the sun for too long. Exposing your scalp and hair can cause substantial damages. Wear a hat or a cap to keep your scalp protected from harmful UV rays.
Don’t tie your hair too tight, especially if it is wet. Tying your hair stretches the hair shaft, which can cause it to break and split.
Don’t over-do your hairstyle. Hair professionals suggest that one should only use hair equipment like hair blowers and flat irons for special occasions. So, styling your hair is best to be done occasionally. Also, switch to cold air after the styling session. Doing so will close the hair shaft and leave your hair looking shiny and smooth.
