Summer is supposed to be as stress-free as possible, meaning you may have skipped a few pivotal steps in your beauty routine (i.e. using a makeup wipe instead of thoroughly cleansing your face, ditching your monthly facial or piling on dry shampoo in an attempt to go too many days in between hair washes) on more than one occasion. And while some steps in your daily regime can be omitted every once in a while, too many bad hair habits can leave your strands looking dry, damaged, flat or just plain sad. So what can you do? Embark on a healthy hair detox stat! Check out five easy ways to kickstart your hair health and get it back to looking fab.
Banish build-up
One of the biggest culprits of sad-looking strands? Using too much product! (We’re looking at you, dry shampoo!) Unfortunately, although a product may temporarily cure your hair probs, piling it on day after day can create build-up along your scalp, clogging hair follicles and preventing the natural oils from traveling down the hair shaft. The result? Dry, lifeless locks. Using too much product can also leave your scalp itchy, inflamed or flaky—not a good look! To give your scalp the deep cleansing it so desperately needs, use a heavy-duty shampoo or rinse at least once a week. For colored-treated strands, look for products formulated with apple cider vinegar, which not only removes residue and flakes, stimulates the scalp and unclogs hair follicles, it also boosts color and manageability and restores body and shine. Or, if you're experiencing severe itchiness, flakiness or inflammation, opt for an exfoliating shampoo that will calm the scalp and treat and prevent dandruff.
Try: KEVIN.MURPHY SCALP.SPA SCRUB and WASH
Keune Care Derma Exfoliate Shampoo
Ditch the heat
Whether it’s a blowdryer, flat iron or curling iron, constant heat styling wreaks havoc on your locks, causing major dullness, dryness and brittleness. If you genuinely want to revive your strands, you’re going to need to cut out the heat. One option? Go cold turkey by embarking on a 30-day “no-heat” challenge to see major results. Not able to omit hot tools from your routine entirely? Be strategic with your heat. Wash your hair at night and allow it dry while you sleep, then use a curling iron to touch up any frizzy areas in the morning.
Skip the harsh ingredients
Another easy way to kickstart your hair health? Avoid products formulated with harsh sulfates and heavy artificial waxes, mineral oils, etc. Instead, embrace a haircare routine rich in products formulated with plant-derived ingredients as well as natural oils.
Eat a healthy diet
Revive your strands from the inside out with healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, salmon), proteins (eggs, beans, red meat), leafy greens (spinach, kale) and nutrient-rich fruits and veggies (sweet potatoes, berries). All of these types of foods are necessary for restoring strength, shine and body back into your locks.
Nourish your ends
Dry ends are the number one telltale sign that your hair needs a detox. Give them a little TLC by swapping your regular conditioner for a nutrient-rich deep conditioner at least once a week. Another restorative option? Apply a nourishing oil once a week and sleep with it in your hair overnight. Lastly, if you’re struggling with split ends, go get a trim—we promise you, your hair will look and feel a million times better!
Try: Redken Oil For All
