How to keep hair looking young and healthy. My hair has always been like a security blanket. In fact, in high school, my friends used to tease me because I’d always ask, “how’s my hair?”. Even though I don’t style it very much and prefer to go with a natural tousled look, to this day, I don’t like when people play with my hair. Naturally, I’m very sensitive to how it is ageing. While I respect people who let their natural grey shine through, I’m most likely going to be colouring my hair for a very long time.

HOW TO KEEP HAIR LOOKING YOUNG AND HEALTHY

WHAT IS GREY HAIR?

Whether you are a fan or not, it’s important to understand that the follicles are no longer producing melanin and your hair is becoming colourless. Therefore, ageing hair needs to be treated differently than fully pigmented hair. At this point, it is more brittle and sensitive to environmental pollutants. This is the time when you need to start being more informed about your shampoo choices. Look for formulations that are extra hydrating and specially designed for grey hair.

The same goes for styling products. Look for ingredients like omega fatty acids and added vitamins and toss the ones which contain alcohol which has a drying effect. On that note, it’s also best to avoid a lot of heat styling. Instead, look for products that contain ingredients like avocado oil, coconut oil, wheat proteins and that are rich in antioxidants.

At this point you might also start noticing that your hair seems to have less volume and that it feels finer to the touch. If you have these concerns don’t be afraid to speak with your stylist who can create a haircut that will not only highlight your features, but will also make your hair appear thicker with more volume.

FOR ALL HAIR NO MATTER YOUR AGE 

How To Repair Damaged Hair

Use a delicate shampoo. No need to change your favourite brand, instead look for a formulation whose description contains words like anti-breakage, fortifying and renewal. They will be the key to helping you keep your hair healthy and shiny.

Use cold water.  For a few seconds, while rinsing out your conditioner, turn the tap to cold.  This will help smooth out your hair’s cuticles and it will appear shinier and smoother.

Dry carefully. Rather than rubbing your hair vigorously with a traditional towel, switch to a  microfiber one. Then gently dab your hair dry. Wet hair is delicate and prone to breakage, so treat it with care.

Don’t dry wet hair. Allow your hair to air dry before turning on the blow dryer, this way your hair will have less time under the damaging heat. Don’t forget to use a heat protector .

Use heat styling tools sparingly.  Instead of using a flat iron, embrace those natural waves.  If you do need to style your hair on a daily basis then invest in some professional styling tools and follow the directions on the label. Professional flat irons run hotter and you won’t have to run it through your hair as many times.

Apply a mask. Sure, you can buy a hair mask and there are lots of great ones on the market, but you can also diy one for a lot less.  Mayonnaise contains a lot of oils that are the perfect answer to help restore moisture to your hair. It also contains proteins that will help strengthen weak strands. Eggs are another great source of protein which aid in thickening your hair.

The recipe is simple. Take about a half a cup of mayo, whisk in two eggs  and apply to your hair starting at the roots. Cover your head with a plastic cap and wrap it with a heated towel. Then put your feet up for about 20 minutes, relax and let the treatment go to work. Hint: when washing your hair use a small drop of sulfate free shampoo as this will help wash everything off. If your hair is looking dull, a beer rinse before washing should liven it up.

Ageing hair is a product of life and genetics, but you don’t need to give in. Before hiding under the covers or buying a new hat (although that’s always a good idea) try revisiting your diet.

Are you getting enough:

• Vitamin A found in sweet potato, yogurt, kale
• Vitamin B found in meat, fish, whole grains and dark leafy greens
• Vitamin C  found in citrus fruit
• Vitamin D found in fatty fish, cod liver oil
• Vitamin E found in avocados, spinach
• Iron
• Zinc

Lower levels of these vitamins and minerals could also be indications of other health issues like hypothyroidism. If you do notice a significant change in your hair, don’t discount a visit to your doctor.

STILL HAVING ISSUES WITH THIN HAIR?

• Use minimal products
• Get highlights
• Layer
• Cut strategically
• Tease the roots
• Use dry shampoo

for the full article read: HOW TO MAKE YOUR HAIR LOOK THICKER

Want even more tips about having the best hair always? Read:  HOW TO ALWAYS HAVE THE BEST HAIR DAY

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