Each hair type requires different care to keep your locks looking their best. However, some hair care principles apply to everyone, regardless of your hair type. Curly or straight, long or short, fine or thick, these tried and true tips will ensure that no matter what type of hair you have, it’s always the healthiest it can be.
Wash With Cold or Lukewarm Water
Few self-care activities feel quite as luxurious as a hot shower but turn the temperature down before you wash your hair. Scalding hot water can dry out your hair, stripping it of its natural oils. Lukewarm or cold water will get your hair just as clean but without the potentially damaging effects associated with hotter temperatures.
Focus Shampooing Efforts on the Scalp
Oil is produced on the scalp, so it’s essential to concentrate on cleansing your scalp and roots when washing your hair. Over-cleansing the length of your hair can strip your locks of natural moisture, making your hair appear dry and dull. Instead, focus on the length of your hair while conditioning, and save the shampoo for your scalp.
Rinse Thoroughly
Thoroughly shampooing your hair and cleansing your scalp is not enough; it’s equally vital to rinse all the product out of your hair. The last thing you want is leftover products contributing to build-up. Take an extra minute to make sure all of the shampoo and conditioner are rinsed out before hopping out of the shower.
Use a T-Shirt, Not a Towel
While a towel is a clear choice to dry your body, opt for an old t-shirt to dry your hair instead. Towels are rough and cause breakage, while T-shirts are softer and gentler.
Never Skip Heat Protectant
Before applying any heat to your hair, use a high-quality heat protectant. This step is key, especially for those who regularly use curling irons, blow dryers, and flat irons. Heat damage is preventable, so be sure to remember this vital step.
Straighten or Curl Dry Hair Only
Though it may be tempting to use hot hair tools on wet hair to shave a few minutes off your styling time, it's also a surefire way to damage your hair. Always style your hair with curling irons or flat irons only after it's fully dry to keep your hair looking its best.
Invest In a Silk Pillowcase
Sometimes your hair can be damaged in your sleep. Cotton pillowcases can be harsh on your hair, causing breakage and absorbing hair products. Instead, opt for a silk pillowcase that is gentler on your locks. Sleeping on a silk pillowcase each night significantly impacts your hair with minimal effort.
Use Dry Shampoo to Extend the Time Between Washes
Washing your hair too often can strip it of its healthy natural oils and be very time-consuming. Choose a high-quality dry shampoo when your hair looks dirty to get an extra day or two between washes.
Let Your Hair Air Dry From Time to Time
Whether you’re getting ready for work, school, or outings with friends, it can be tempting to blow dry your hair after every wash to achieve your ideal style. When possible, it’s nice to give your hair a break from the heat. Allow your hair to air dry from time to time to cut down on heat damage.
Schedule Regular Haircuts
No matter which hair products you use or how you style it, if you go too long between haircuts, you’ll prevent your hair from looking as healthy as it could. Schedule regular haircuts to keep split ends in check. Even the subtlest trim can dramatically improve the look and feel of your hair.
Brush Wet Hair With a Wide-Tooth Comb
Your hair is at its most vulnerable and prone to breakage when it’s wet. Brushing wet hair with a brush can be incredibly damaging, which is why it is always better to use a wide-tooth comb when you get out of the shower. Be sure to brush gently, starting from the bottom and working your way up toward the root.
Don’t Forget to Deep Condition
All hair types and textures can benefit from regular deep conditioning treatments. These treatments are as easy as applying a hair mask or treatment in the shower and only take a minute or two to be extremely effective. Those who have color-treated will want to take an extra step and add in a color toning treatment to keep their color looking fresh. To keep your hair looking its best, visit Fruition Salon, a premier Nashville hair salon.
