Most beauty services these days focus on skin care. As a result, one tends to undermine the importance of regular hair care. While diet and sleep are crucial factors in determining the quality of one’s mane, there are many natural methods to supplement the same.
Most shampoos and conditioners available in the market today are laced with chemicals and toxins that contribute to problems of hair, scalp and skin rather than nourishing them. E.g., Propylene Glycol inhibits hair growth, causes rashes, dry skin and skin irritation. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) impairs hair growth by corroding hair follicles. Oleyl Betaine causes dandruff, dry scalp and leads to dry hair. Mineral oils are petroleum products which clog pores. These are known carcinogens and found in most hair-care products available today. Thus, it is imperative that one refrains from using such products that damage the hair.
An alternate to the above, is switching to natural hair care. Eggs are a great source of nourishment not only for the body, but for the hair as well. The egg yolk is rich in fats and proteins and is an excellent conditioner for dry hair. Only egg whites can be used to treat oily hair, as egg whites contain bacteria-treating enzymes. Those with normal hair can use the entire egg to condition their hair by simply applying the egg mixture to damp hair and washing it off after 20 minutes.
Lifestyle habits like poor diet, lack of sleep and stress can lead to dandruff. A mixture of olive oil with lemon juice works wonders to treat an itchy scalp. The acidity in the lemon removes flakes while the olive oil acts as a moisturizer for the scalp. Those who apply styling products mostly end up with dull hair since these products strip the hair of its natural shine. Application of yoghurt can reverse this damage. The lactic acid present in yoghurt removes the dirt and the dairy fat simultaneously moisturizes the hair.
For sun-damaged dry and dull hair, one can apply honey to restore the moisture. Honey naturally locks in moisture and proves as an effective conditioner. For extremely sun-damaged hair, one can also add an egg yolk or some avocado to honey, for that extra conditioning. Avocado is moisturizing and its high content of protein makes it the perfect ingredient to manage unruly, frizzy hair.
In addition to cleansing, regular oiling of hair is a must since it regulates blood flow to the scalp, removes excess oil/flakes and ensures healthy hair growth. Depending on the season and climate, coconut, sesame, jojoba and almond oils can be used. Essential oils like lavender, rosemary and thyme can be added to either of the above carrier oils to nourish normal hair. Geranium and sandalwood essential oils work for dry hair. Lemon, peppermint and cypress can be used for oily hair.
Make use of these natural, inexpensive, easily available homemade remedies and treatments to nourish your mane. However, one must remember that these solutions can only supplement a healthy and stable lifestyle.
