Do not brush your hair while it is still wet, unless you have curly hair. If you have curly hair, brush your hair while it is still wet using a wide-toothed comb. If possible, do this before you rinse out your conditioner. The conditioner will help your comb glide through your strands with less resistance and breakage. Consider using a hair detangler spray or gel to make brushing easier. This product will make it easier for the brush or comb to glide through the hair strands. [1] X Expert Source Ndeye Anta NiangProfessional Hair Stylist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020.
If you dye your hair, try to stay within 3 shades. Going too light will over-process your hair and cause it to become dry and brittle. [5] X Research source
Alternatively, you could wrap your hair with a silk scarf before you go to bed.
Foods that are high in fatty acids include avocado, salmon, and olive oil. Fatty acids help reintroduce moisture to your scalp and hair. [7] X Research source Protein-containing foods include eggs, fish, and meat. Protein helps your hair become stronger. [8] X Research source Vitamin C-rich foods include broccoli, citrus, and spinach. Foods high in Vitamin B include berries, eggs, nuts, fish, and other vegetables. [9] X Research source
Try meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to focus your mind. Exercise to get your body moving. For example, you could jog, play a sport, walk, or even work out in a gym. Take up a hobby, such as drawing, knitting or crochet, gardening, painting, playing music, reading, singing, or writing.
To help keep your hair fresh in between washes, use a dry shampoo. This won’t completely replace washing, but it will help manage that oily look and feel on the days you don’t wash. If you must wash your hair more often, then wash it every other day.
If you wish to use a store-bought mask, look for something that contains Argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter. Apply the mask to damp hair, then tuck your hair under a shower cap. Leave the hair mask on for the recommended time (usually 20 to 30 minutes), then rinse it off, followed by your usual hair washing routine. You can use this mask weekly or twice a month, depending on your hair type. Do not leave the mask longer than for the recommended time on the label. You can also make your own deep conditioning mask using honey or yogurt. Because these sorts of masks are made from natural ingredients, they do not stay fresh for very long and should be used as soon as they are made.
Consider using a microfiber towel. These towels are softer than the typical cotton towel, so they cause less hair-damaging friction. Simply wrap your hair up in a microfiber towel and let the towel soak up the excess moisture. [14] X Research source If you don’t have a microfiber towel, even a clean t-shirt will work. This is still more gentle than a typical cotton towel.
If you must use your blow dryer, always apply a heat protectant product beforehand to help prevent further damage to your locks.
Use avocado oil if you have dry or frizzy hair. Castor can help strengthen brittle hair and add back some thickness if your hair has thinned. Use coconut oil for extra moisture, softness, and shine. This oil is also good for managing dandruff. Jojoba oil is great for those with oily hair. Sesame oil will restore shine to dull hair. Consider combining any of the above oils.
Products that say “Dry and Brittle Hair” are great for damaged hair. They are extra nourishing and moisturizing and will help make your hair stronger. Look for products that contain moisturizers, such as Argan oil, coconut oil, or shea butter. Smoothing and softening shampoos and conditioners contain healthy oils that will make our hair appear healthier and less frizzy. Any products that say: repairing, hydrating, or moisturizing. Consider buying some leave-in conditioners. They will help lock the moisture in, and prevent your hair from drying out. If you dye your hair, then look for something that says “For Colo-Treated Hair. " These products not only help prevent fading, but they also provide your hair with extra moisture and nourishment.
If you must use something fragranced, look for something with a natural fragrance, such as essential oil or coconut oil.
Parabens are preservatives that have been linked to breast cancer. Sulfates often appear in the ingredient list as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. They are harsh detergents often found in floor cleaners and capable of stripping your hair of its natural oils, resulting in dry and brittle hair. They are responsible for the foam and lather in a shampoo. Ureas are added for their anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties. Unfortunately, they have been linked to dermatitis and cancer. Phthalates/plasticizers may disrupt the endocrine system Petrochemicals, such as Lanolin, Mineral Oil, Paraffin, Petrolatum, Propylene Glycol, and PVP/VA Copolymer seal the toxins in your hair while keeping moisture and oxygen out.
Oils such as Argan, avocado, and olive oil Moisturizing agents such as glycerin, glyceryl stearate, propylene glycol, shea butter, sodium lactate, sodium PCA, and sorbitol.
Avoid the following alcohol: isopropyl alcohol, propanol, propyl alcohol, and SD alcohol 40. The following alcohols are not bad for your hair: Cetearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol, and stearyl alcohol.