Some stylists recommend getting a trim every 5 weeks for healthy-looking hair, while others suggest a trim every 6 to 8 weeks depending on whether you’re trying to maintain or grow out your hair, respectively. [4] X Research source [5] X Research source It’s important when you trim to have all dull and rough looking hair removed.
Density: Look at a patch of hair on the top of your head. If you can barely see your scalp through your hair, you have thick-density hair; if the hair is more spaced out, it’s of a fine density; and if it’s somewhere in the middle, your hair is of a medium density. [7] X Research source Also, the thinner your part line, the higher the density. Texture: Observe an individual strand of your hair. How thick or thin is the strand in relation to the hair of other people you know? You can also gauge how thick or fine your hair is by tugging on it — thick-textured hair will be stronger/less likely to break than fine-textured hair. [8] X Research source Fine hair feels more flexible and can have difficulty holding volume while thicker hair tends to be stubborn and full. Strength: Hair strength is measured by porosity and elasticity. Wash and towel-dry your hair, then feel it: if your hair feels quite wet, it’s more damaged/porous; if it feels quite dry, it’s healthier/less porous. The farther you can stretch your hair without it breaking, the more elastic and healthy it is. [9] X Research source
There are myriad products to choose from — just be sure to choose something that suits your hair. In general, salon brands are thought to be of a higher quality than drugstore brands. Look for sulfate-free shampoo since sulfates can damage your hair. [12] X Expert Source Christine GeorgeMaster Hair Stylist & Colorist Expert Interview. 10 January 2020.
You can give yourself a gentle scalp massage while shampooing your hair.
How often you deep condition your hair will depend on how healthy it is: if your hair is very damaged, deep condition it once a week. Pay close attention to the instructions on the bottle. A protein-based conditioner, for instance, will strengthen your hair, but can make it brittle if left on too long.
Massage your scalp and the ends of your hair with some warm oil. Options for oil include coconut, olive, and sweet almond, among others. Which oil you use will depend on your hair type and personal preference. [16] X Research source Jojoba oil is a safe bet for all hair types. [17] X Research source Wrap a hot, damp towel around your head. This will help the oil penetrate your hair. Just make sure it’s not too hot![18] X Research source Apply a hair mask to your hair. The type of mask will depend on your hair type. For dry hair, apply a paste of 1 or 2 egg whites and honey to your hair; for greasy hair, apply a paste of aloe vera gel, amla powder, and water to your hair. [19] X Research source
How often you wash your hair will depend on your individual hair. Some people find that they need to wash their hair every day or two to keep it from getting too oily; others are able to wash their hair once or twice a week. When washing your hair, be gentle: massage the shampoo into your roots and then let it move down through the rest of your hair — don’t rub it into your hair, as this can cause damage. [21] X Research source
Wait for your hair to dry a bit before brushing it; when you do brush it, use a wide-tooth comb.
You also need to be careful about what kind of brush you use. Wide-tooth combs are commonly recommended by stylists as the most gentle option. [24] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source Boar bristle brushes may be the exception to this rule since they are much easier on the hair and can help distribute your hair’s natural oils as well.
If you must heat-style your hair, be sure to coat your hair in a protective spray or balm before applying heat. [26] X Research source Most hair types should only use the low or medium settings and be sure to only style each section once. If curling, roll the hair up and clip while it cools. You can also create curls with set setting techniques like rollers or pin curls.
If you do put your hair in a ponytail use clothe covered elastics and never rubber bands. Be especially careful about putting your hair into a ponytail or braid when it’s wet and more prone to damage. The same goes for extensions and weaves, which can pull on your hair. If you have discomfort or pain in your scalp, your hair is likely causing too much pressure on your roots. [28] X Research source
To protect your hair in the sun, wear a hat or spritz it with a UV-protecting spray. Some leave-in conditioners also provide UV protection. To protect your hair in the rain, use an umbrella or a hat, or wear waterproof jacket with a hood.
Recommended products for protecting your hair from chlorine include those containing oil and/or silicone or, for a more natural option, coconut oil. [31] X Research source If you swim regularly, you may also want to invest in a hair cleanser that’s specially designed to wash out chlorine. [32] X Research source
When using hair products, less is more. Start small and add additional product as needed. A small dab of anti-frizz cream/gel is often enough to tame fly-aways without making your hair look oily.
Fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel contain omega-3 fatty acids, which protect you from disease and help your body grow and maintain healthy, shiny hair. Greek yogurt contains protein and vitamin B5 (also known as pantothenic acid), which are both essential for healthy hair growth. If you don’t get enough protein in your diet, your hair growth stalls. [35] X Research source Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale contain vitamin A, iron, beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C, which are all helpful in maintaining a healthy scalp and hair. Vitamin C in particular is hugely helpful in preventing breakage. Sweet potatoes and other orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, pumpkins, cantaloupe, and mangoes contain the antioxidant beta carotene, which helps keep hair hydrated and shiny. Cinnamon and other spices boost your circulation, helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients to your hair follicles. Sprinkle blood-flow-boosting spices into your various meals and beverages. Eggs are a great source of protein, iron, and biotin — a B vitamin that helps with hair growth.
If you think you might not be getting enough iron in your diet, try eating fortified cereal, grains, and pastas. You can also find iron in soybeans, lentils, shellfish, dark leafy greens, beef, and organ meats like liver. [37] X Research source
Example: a 150-pound woman would drink at least 75 ounces of water each day — more if she were active or living in a hot climate (i. e. if she were sweating).
Some things that may help you relax include meditation, socializing with people who make you feel good, taking baths, or taking up a fun hobby (e. g. , book club, music, dance, recreational sports).
Overactive or underactive thyroid Other hormonal problems Anemia/iron deficiency Exposure to harmful chemicals Severe infections Side effects of certain medications
