For many of us, our hair is a major way in which we choose to express our personality and style. We have fun styling, colouring cutting and re-growing it to suit our mood, fashion sense and lifestyle choices. However, too much fuss and styling can lead to damaged hair, as an overexposure to harsh chemicals, a sub-standard hair care routine and even the wrong diet. Of course, if your hair is becoming damaged or is shedding to such an extent that you are starting to see bald patches, it could be worth looking into how to arrange a hair transplant in UK or abroad. In the meantime, however, here are some tips, courtesy of the Hair World Turkey in Istanbul, to help you repair and rejuvenate your troubled tresses.
Watch out when wet
Your hair is at its most vulnerable when it is wet, for example after a shower, when caught in a rainstorm or following a swimming or jacuzzi session. Damage can occur far more easily, especially if you have curly hair. Never pull a brush through wet hair – use a wide-toothed comb instead to gently tease out any tangles. Pat your hair with a towel instead of rubbing it too roughly and avoid putting your hair up with elastic bands or accessories until it is dry, as this can exacerbate any existing damage.
Masked healer
Applying an oil-rich hair mask to your locks can help restore shine and repair damage along the hair strands and inside the follicle itself. Choose a good quality mask that contains lots of vitamins, oils and moisturising ingredients. Masks tend to be thicker than conditioners and so can stay in the hair for longer, allowing the magic formula to do its work. Look for one that suits your hair type for maximum chances of success and always follow the instructions on the packet regarding how to apply it and how long to leave it on.
Keep it cool
Turn the temperature down on your hair styling wands, tongs and straighteners, as excess heat can cause damage to the hair it comes into contact with over time. It can also make your hair dry, brittle and ‘flyaway’. A lower temperature will do a similar job to a higher one unless your hair is especially dense or coarse. If you can, avoid the heat altogether and go for softer waves instead of close curls. Use a heat protection product first, if you must go for a heated styling option, but do so sparingly and only for important occasions.
Water, water everywhere
We are frequently told not to let ourselves get dehydrated and that we must drink lots of water to stay healthy and energised. Yet, our hair can get dehydrated too, and can easily suffer the effects of not taking in enough water and appearing dull and lifeless as a result. Use a hydrating, sulphate-free shampoo, conditioner and hair mask to add water back into your hair and avoid drying chemicals and heated styling tools wherever possible. Drink plenty of water too, as this can also help your hair and skin restore their suppleness and glow.
Clever cuts
Never neglect your hairdresser appointments, as having your hair trimmed regularly can really help it stay in good condition. It can also help reverse damage by cutting away any split ends before the breakage travels too far up the hair strand. Your hairdresser or barber will also be able to tell you if your hair is too dry, too brittle or damaged in other ways, and recommend products to help restore its former good condition. If you are trying to grow your hair longer, don’t be put off going for a trim – you only need to lose a very small amount to remove split ends, and the act of trimming your hair is actually very good for its overall look and condition.
Sun, sea – and safety first
When you are on holiday, enjoying a swim or spending time outside in the sunshine, it can be easy to forget about looking after your hair. However, chlorine from swimming pools and water parks can do a lot of damage, especially if you colour your hair if you are not careful. Always wear a swimming hat when you enter the water and apply an anti-fade hair mask beforehand to protect the colour. Wash your hair immediately after leaving the chlorinated pool and add a moisturising conditioner to help it retain its softness and prevent it from becoming brittle. Wear a hat when out in the sun to protect your hair from UV damage and your scalp and face from sunburn.