A majority of the time we get caught up in having longer hair or a particular curl pattern. But, really the main focus should be achieving your healthiest hair no matter the length or curl type. There’s nothing quite like a head full of shiny, strong tresses. Here are three simple steps to help you achieve just that.
#1 Healthy Scalp
It should go without saying that maintaining a healthy scalp is the most important step to achieving healthy hair. It’s where our hair originates and its inner layer, the dermis, is where you’ll find the blood supply that nourishes the root and stimulates hair growth. An unhealthy scalp can lead to a host of issues such as thinning hair and scalp problems like itching, dryness or hair loss (eek!). Regular shampooing (at minimum once a week) promotes a healthy scalp by washing away dirt, oil and pollution, as well as helps to maintain the scalp’s proper ph. A healthy diet is also super important because the nutrients in our food are absorbed into our blood, which then nourishes our hair’s roots!
#2 Moisture/Protein Balance
Maintaining the correct balance between moisture and protein is a game changer when it comes to hair health. The equilibrium for both is different for everyone—sorry no magic formula here. Some people require more moisture than protein and vice versa. So, you’ll have to experiment to find what works for hair. Sources of protein can be incorporated into your regimen both internally and externally i.e. protein-rich foods like nuts, cheeses, meats; moisture-rich fruits, veggies and drinking lots of water; and external hair treatments like deep conditioners, protein masques, etc.
#3 Hair Tools & Manipulation
Again, this is different for everyone. I know some folks who can fry, dye and blow dry their hair and not experience a single split end (bless their heart). And then there are others where a routine combing session can wreak havoc and lead to breakage. You simply have to pay attention to your hair and learn its limitations.
No two heads of hair are alike and what will work for you may not work for others and vice versa. And the key to healthy hair is developing a hair care regimen that’s right for you.
What’s your current hair care regimen? Tell us in the comments.