Summer’s here, and while we welcome the sunshine and warmth, it can create chaos on our hair. Sun exposure, chlorine, and humidity can all contribute to increased hair fall. But fear not! With some strategic changes to your hair care routine, you can combat summer hair fall and keep your locks healthy and strong.
Gear Up for Defense:
- Sun Protection: Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun’s harsh UV rays. Wear hats or use leave-in conditioners with SPF when spending time outdoors.
- Chlorine Blues? Chlorine in swimming pools can dry out your hair. To minimize damage, wet your hair before swimming and apply a leave-in conditioner. After swimming, rinse your hair with clean water and follow up with a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
Hydration is Key:
- Drink Up: Dehydration can affect your scalp health and contribute to hair fall. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated from the inside out.
- Deep Conditioning: Summer heat can zap your hair’s moisture. Regularly use deep conditioners or hair masks to replenish moisture and prevent breakage that leads to hair fall. Aim for deep conditioning treatments once a week, or more often if your hair feels dry and brittle.
Scalp Care Matters:
- Gentle Cleansing: Skip harsh shampoos that can strip your scalp of its natural oils. Opt for mild, sulfate-free shampoos that cleanse without over-drying.
- Scalp Massages: Regular scalp massages improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can promote hair growth and reduce hair fall. Massage your scalp gently while shampooing or during your oiling routine (see below for hair oiling tips).
Hair Oiling for the Win:
- Natural Nourishment: Hair oiling is a fantastic way to add moisture and protect your hair during the summer. Coconut oil, argan oil, and castor oil are all excellent options. Apply the oil to your scalp and hair ends, focusing on dry areas. Leave it on for an hour or overnight, then wash with a gentle shampoo.
Beat the Heat with Styling:
- Heat Styling Holiday: Minimize your use of heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand to shield your hair from heat damage.
- Air Drying is Best: Whenever possible, let your hair air dry naturally. Towel drying can be rough on hair, so gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water before letting it air dry completely.
Diet for Healthy Hair:
- Fuel from Within: Ensure your diet is rich in nutrients that promote healthy hair growth. Include plenty of protein, iron, vitamins A, C, and E in your meals. Leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and eggs are all excellent choices.