Whether you have got a sleek pixie cut or bohemian beach waves, the health and appearance of your hair is an issue you can’t neglect. It’s often one of the first aspects of the way you look that other people notice, and feeling good about your tresses tends to lead to a more confident feeling overall.
So, the million-dollar question is: how can you keep your hair happy and healthy? Read on for some simple yet effective tips.
Diet
Eating healthy is important for every single part of your body – and that includes your hair. In order to keep your locks strong and shiny, you need to consume a balanced diet that’s rich in nutrients. Some of the most important to make sure you’re eating are protein, omega-3, zinc, biotin, and iron, as well as vitamins A, B, C, D, and E. The best foods to add to your diet include:
- Spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens
- Seeds (e.g., flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds)
- Salmon
- Berries (e.g., strawberries and blueberries)
- Eggs
- Avocados
- Sweet potatoes
- Nuts (e.g., walnuts, brazil nuts, and almonds)
- Legumes (e.g., lentils, soybeans, and chickpeas)
Eating well can help to strengthen your hair follicles, promote hair growth, prevent breakage, and generally keep your hair looking shiny. On the other hand, you should avoid crash diets as these often result in vitamin deficiencies and dehydration.
Haircare
A huge part of how healthy your hair is comes down to how you treat it. For example, if you brush your hair too aggressively or when it’s wet, this can result in breakage and hair loss. Likewise, pulling your hair into tight hairstyles can tug on the roots and also cause your hair to fall out.
Secondly, think about the products that you’re using on your hair. It’s best to choose high-quality shampoos and conditioners that are specifically designed for use on your hair type, whether that’s curly, dry, brittle, dyed, fine, or frizzy. Additionally, when you’re styling your hair, don’t use straighteners or tongs on too high of a heat as this will cause damage. Again, quality is key.
Lastly, listen to the professionals. Get your hair cut at a salon regularly and heed the advice they give. Alternatively, if you’ve had a hair transplant, be sure to follow the aftercare instructions to the letter in order to maximize your results.
Lifestyle
There are several simple lifestyle changes you can make that will work wonders for your hair. These include:
- Sleeping on a silk pillowcase can reduce friction during the night and keep your hair hydrated, resulting in fewer split ends and tangles as well as less frizz
- Not washing your hair more than three times a week unless you need to, in order to avoid stripping away the natural oils
- Drying your hair with a cotton t-shirt rather than a towel, as this is much gentler
- Massaging your scalp to promote circulation and increase blood flow to your hair follicles
- Taking steps to combat stress, such as meditation, journaling, and breathing exercises
- Not showering in overly hot water, as this can weaken your hair