In normal times, our hair goes through a lot. To walk into the world with hair you feel happy about, you might (for example) colour-treat it, heat-style it and then tease it into an up-do. And while these processes can help you get the style you want, they’re often damaging to your strands.
So over the next weeks, while most of us are hunkering down at home, why not take a break from your regular styling routine? In other words, give your hair a holiday!
Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting you leave your hair completely to its own devices. Instead, tone down your usual beauty regimen, and focus instead on health and self-care. Think of it a bit like your skin-care routine: you’re probably not wearing much makeup right now, but you’re still cleansing your face and applying your favourite creams, masks and serums.
So, here are our tips for detoxifying your hair. Who knows, when you finally emerge into the world again, your tresses could look better and feel healthier than they have in years!
Keep Washing Regularly!
Probably our most important piece of advice is this: make sure you’re still washing your hair even if you’re not going out!
Washing your hair is important to get rid of excess oils, as well as dirt and product build-up. Warm water helps to soften the grease, but it doesn’t wash it away on its own. You need to use a shampoo to properly clean your hair and scalp..
We recommend washing your hair every day. But if this is unrealistic, wash it as often as you can. As well as being hygienic, having clean, fresh-feeling hair can be a real psychological boost during quarantine
Let Your Hair Dry Naturally
We totally understand the desire to face the world with a smooth, controlled ’do. But the truth is, heat styling can really dry out your hair, especially if you use a hair dryer and/or tongs every few days.
Right now could be a great time to try letting your hair dry naturally. Not only will your hair appreciate the break, but you might appreciate the 15 minutes or so that you save in your day.
Sounds like a case for air-drying, but get this: The study found that while the heat of a dryer can cause more damage than not using one, using a hair–dryer at the right distance and temperature can actually cause less damage than letting hair air-dry. … First, let your hair dry naturally, about 70-80% of the way dry
Let Your Hair Down
Wearing your ponytail or topknot in the same place on your head every day causes your hair to break over time from the constant tension. Frequently changing your pony or bun placement is an easy move that can help maintain the strength of your strands, which means they’ll continue to grow out strong and damage-free.. This can cause headaches – and, over time, even a type of hair loss called traction alopecia.
To break the pattern, why not wear your hair down during social distancing? Or if this gets in your way, try out a looser style using a scrunchie. Very 80s, we know, but much kinder on your strands!