Making sure your hair is healthy and hydrated is essential if you want beautiful, luscious locks that will turn heads. Unfortunately, many of us struggle to keep our hair hydrated throughout the day, as things like the sun, wind, and environmental pollutants can dry our strands out quickly. That’s why it’s important to know how to hydrate hair properly so that it lasts all day.
In this post, we’ll discuss the best ways to keep your hair hydrated. We’ll go over the benefits of using a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner, the importance of using a deep conditioner or mask, and the effectiveness of using a leave-in conditioner or treatment. Plus, we’ll cover other tips and tricks you can implement to keep your hair looking and feeling its best.
Understand Your Hair Type
The first step to achieving and maintaining hydrated hair is to understand your hair type. Each hair type has unique characteristics and requires a different approach to care. Your hair type is generally determined by genetics and the shape of your hair follicle, which can give you straight, wavy, curly, or coily locks. The porosity and density of your hair are also important characteristics to consider when searching for hair treatment options. If you’re unsure of your hair type, consult your stylist, who can properly diagnose the type of strands you have, as well as offer advice on which products are best for your needs.
Choose the Proper Products
Once you know your hair type, you can begin shopping for the appropriate products. Use a shampoo specifically designed for your hair type that contains conditioning agents, such as panthenol or aloe vera. Also, look for words such as “hydrating” or “moisturizing” on the product labels. You will also need a good quality conditioner. Look for a creamy or oil-based formula, as these will provide optimal hydration. Finally, you will want to find a leave-in cream or hair moisturizer full of conditioning agents and beneficial oils, such as argan or coconut oil, that will both nourish and seal in moisture.
Establish a Healthy Hair Regimen
Using the right products is only part of the equation when it comes to keeping your hair hydrated — an effective hair care routine is also vitally important. It’s recommended that you shampoo and condition no more than three times per week, as too much cleaning can strip away natural oils and nutrients from the scalp. When shampooing, focus on cleansing the scalp, not the ends of the hair, as this is where most of the dirt accumulates. To properly condition, be sure to distribute the product evenly throughout the strands before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. For optimal results, apply a leave-in cream or hair moisturizer immediately after showering to help seal in moisture until your next wash.
Know Which Ingredients to Avoid
While there are many beneficial ingredients that can help hydrate hair, there are a few that should be avoided in order to keep your tresses healthy and happy. Sodium lauryl sulfate is an ingredient often found in shampoo that proves too harsh for many hair types. Alcohols like propanol and isopropyl are known to dry out strands as well. Citrus extracts are good for scalp stimulation but may cause itching. Harsh detergents like laureth sulfates should also be avoided. Lastly, fragrances are often filled with harmful chemicals that could weaken your strands over time.
Adhere to a Healthy Diet
Healthy eating is key when trying to retain moisture in your locks. Foods high in essential fatty acids, such as salmon, flaxseed oil, and walnuts can really help strengthen strands from within, while foods high in vitamin C can help promote circulation around the scalp for improved moisture retention. Staying hydrated through regular water intake is also necessary when attempting to keep locks moisturized. Aim for 6-8 glasses per day as a general rule of thumb.
Practice Protective Styling
Protective styling entails shielding locks from damaging elements by wearing hairstyles that require minimal manipulation, such as braids, buns, or twists. These styles allow you to go longer between shampooing sessions while providing extra protection against harsh weather conditions, including cold temperatures and strong winds which could further dry out strands if left unprotected for too long. Additionally, protective styling makes it easier to apply deep conditioning treatments overnight without worrying about messing up your style during sleep.
Utilize the Right Tools
Using the correct tools when styling your hair is equally important when it comes to hydrating tresses. Avoid heated styling tools like blow-dryers, curling irons, and flat irons which can strip away existing moisture from your scalp and strands. Instead, opt for air drying whenever possible and use wide tooth combs when detangling wet strands. Not only does this minimize damage but can also enhance your hair’s shine. If heat-styling must be done, always use heat protectants or setting sprays prior to using hot tools and limit their usage to no more than once per week maximum — any more than this can result in over-drying your hair.
Stay Protected From the Sun
Sun exposure is one of the primary culprits behind dryness so staying protected is key. Invest in a quality sunscreen specifically created for scalps and spray generously onto exposed areas prior to any outdoor activities. Prevention is always better than treatment, so don’t wait until after the damage has already been done. Act preemptively by covering up with hats or scarves whenever outdoors.
Bonus Tip
If all else fails, then you can attempt to restore lost hair moisture through deep treatments such as masks. Particular formulas rich in humectants, such as honey or avocado, paired with some shea butter are incredibly hydrating, so give those a try if you’re looking for an intense moisturizing treatment.
That’s it! Following these simple tips should help you develop a successful haircare routine so you can achieve moisturized locks with ease. With the right information, preventative measures, and products, you’ll be well on your way to soft and lustrous strands. Just remember, everyone’s situation is different, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find what works best for your hair!
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This story originally appeared on Hollywoodlife
