Tips to Maintain Healthy Natural Hair

General Tips to Maintain Healthy Natural Hair
There are many hair care secrets for avoiding some of the most common problems like split ends, dull hair, or static in the hair. But in general, try to remember that the real secret to healthy hair is the old adage,

"less is more." The following are some of the natural hair care tips you need to follow

SPLIT ENDS

All growing hair will split. Essentially the inner cortex of the shaft of protein that comprises the individual hair becomes dry. With this loss of moisture the hair literally unravels like a fraying rope. The only cure is to cut off the split end. Remember that the ends should be trimmed with the tip of the scissors only and done one at a time. You are trying to remove the damaged ends, not to alter the length or appearance of your hair.

Most people with chronic split ends become adept at self-trimming. If you are nervous, however, about damaging your hair style, go to a salon. A professional will be able to do the job for you quickly and efficiently and if you watch carefully, you may be able to do it yourself next time.

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GREY HAIR

All people experience some loss of pigment in their hair as they age. If you decide to go with the grey (which can be dramatic and striking) talk to your hair care professional about a "blue" shampoo to inhibit yellowing. Many products are available especially for grey hair but you want to make sure you choose a product that matches your hair type. Since grey hair is often times coarse, use a "leave in" conditioner or choose "replenishing" products that will moisturize your hair.

As the grey comes in, observe the pattern. It may be possible to restyle your hair to accentuate a streak of grey at the temples or brow. Many women opt to have "low lights" put in, a gentle coloring technique that gives shade and definition to grey areas. If you cannot live with grey hair and decide to color, go at least one and better two shades lighter than your original color. Attempting to match your original color usually results in a severe, harsh appearance.

DULL HAIR

In almost all cases dull hair is the result of product build up, usually from the over use of conditioner. Shop for a "clarifying" shampoo to remove the build up and adopt a new routine in the shower - shampoo, condition, cold water rinse. The cold water will seal the hair cuticle making the hair more shiny.

Do not use leave-in conditioners or "two in one" products that promise to both cleanse and condition your hair. Air drying your hair is best. If you must blow dry, use the lowest setting possible. Spray on shine products work, but may further dry the hair so use them with caution.

SLOW GROWING HAIR

The health of the hair is affected by heredity, the overall health of the individual, and by the diet. Sometimes the best hair loss products are what you put on your plate, not on your head! Slow growing hair and hair loss can often times be traced back to a diet that is low in fruits and vegetables and high in fast food and additives. Smokers will also see these problems with their hair.

For slow growing hair, scalp massage to increase the circulation of the blood has been found to be effective. Buy a scalp massage brush and use as directed. It is also important to have your hair trimmed religiously every six to twelve weeks. Many people with slow growing hair are loathe to get it cut but there is good evidence to suggest that cutting hair stimulates growth. Stay on top of split ends. They are your worst enemy.

Select a gentle shampoo, perhaps even a baby shampoo, and avoid products with alcohol like gels and hair sprays. These items cause the hair to dry out and to become brittle which promotes breakage.

STATIC

The drier the hair, the greater the problems with annoying static, that situation in which the hair follow the comb or brush outward from the head as if it had a life of its own. This is also a problem in the winter when low humidity combined with artificial heat creates static electricity on our clothes and in our hair.

Many people find that it is best to rotate their hair care products by season of the year. You may find that in the winter you need a moisturizing shampoo and a cream rinse to reduce static. Above all do not overheat your hair. Many people find air drying their hair in the winter to be uncomfortable but that blow dryer will only make the static worse. If you must blow dry, use the lowest possible setting so as not to overheat your hair.

There is a natural tendency to combat static with hair spray. Spritz the hair with water instead as hair spray contains alcohol which dries out the hair and scalp. Setting up a humidifier in your bedroom at night will help as will buying a brush with natural bristle since plastic bristles will lead to a static build up.

Conclusion

Use as little "product" as possible regardless of your hair type. Minimize exposure to the sun and to heating products like blow dryers and curling irons. Eat a good balanced diet and avoid over exposure to smoke from cigarettes and other tobacco products. Observe the behavior of your hair in different seasons of the year and if necessary, rotate your hair care products accordingly. The real secret to healthy hair in a daily routine of short or long hair care is to minimize product use and to limit physical stress to the hair.

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