We put our hair through a lot in our efforts to look good. The more we do to it to achieve the styles we’re after, the more the damage racks up. However, by being aware of the ways we can mitigate damage, we can start to establish good habits for healthier hair— and still look good.
Don't over-wash your hair.
Getting your hair wet causes your hair to swell from the inside, which forces the cuticle up. Over-washing causes friz and breakage, so skip a day or two whenever you can. If you need to clean your scalp more often, try a dry shampoo.
Up your shampoo game.
There are tons of different shampoos out there. For healthier hair, opt for shampoos that advertise damage repair and contain proteins which straighten hair. If you use a lot of style products, you’ll also want to alternate using a cleansing conditioner as well, to remove lingering residue.
Consider how you're drying your hair.
It’s quick and easy to dry your hair with a blowdryer, but that heat damage can really add up over time and cause dryness and breaking. If you’re using heat to dry your hair often, always be sure to use a heat protectant on your hair first.
Additionally, if you’re towel-drying your hair after a shower, consider switching to a softer alternative, such as an old t-shirt. They are much gentler on your hair and the cuticle, making it look softer and healthier.
Treat your scalp.
Cleaning hair follicles at the root help prevent blockages and inflammation which can lead to issues with hair-loss down the road. Look for treatment products which contain salicylic acid, as it cleans the scalp well. In a pinch, dandruff shampoos will also clean the scalp better than your normal shampoo.
