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Five lifestyle changes to improve the health of your hair
One of the things we’re most conscious about in life is our hair, particularly when it comes to our appearance. We worry about the thickness of it, and the shine and often do what we can to maintain it, certainly when it comes to product. But it’s not all about using the right products, your lifestyle can have a huge impact on your hair too, from what you eat to things like how much you drink, and actually how vigorous your hair care routine is. So, if your hair isn’t looking how you want it to or you’d like to know more about what you can do to improve it, then here are five lifestyle changes that could make all the difference…
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Improve Your Diet for Healthier Hair
Your diet plays a crucial role in the condition of your hair, as it provides the essential nutrients that hair needs to grow strong and healthy. Just like the rest of your body, your hair requires a balanced intake of vitamins and minerals to thrive. Protein is one of the most important nutrients for hair health because your hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. Include protein-rich foods in your diet, such as eggs, lean meats, fish, beans, and nuts, to support hair growth and repair.
Vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, and E are also critical for maintaining strong, healthy hair. For instance, vitamin C aids in collagen production, which strengthens hair strands, while zinc helps regulate oil production in the scalp. Incorporating more leafy greens, berries, nuts, seeds, and whole grains into your meals can supply your hair with these vital nutrients. If your diet is lacking in these nutrients, you may experience hair thinning or brittleness. In such cases, consulting a nutritionist or considering a supplement may help, but it’s always best to aim for nutrient-rich foods to maintain overall health.
What’s more, the amount of alcohol you drink can also play a part. Alcohol prevents the body from breaking down and absorbing nutrients that are important for hair growth, those mentioned above, so while you may be taking on the right nutrients, if you’re a moderate to heavy drinker this could be having an impact. Giving up alcohol can work wonders for your hair, or certainly cutting down. For many, this isn’t an easy task, so if you find that a struggle, it could be worth seeking help from a therapist or alcohol rehab, which will not only help your hair but also various other aspects of your health.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is often overlooked when it comes to hair health, but it is just as important as diet. Water helps to hydrate your scalp, maintain the elasticity of your hair strands, and prevent breakage. When your body is dehydrated, your hair may become dry, brittle, and more prone to damage. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day—around eight glasses or more depending on your body’s needs—helps to keep your hair hydrated from within. Additionally, using hydrating hair products, such as shampoos and conditioners containing natural oils or aloe vera, can lock in moisture and protect your hair from environmental stressors.
Minimise Heat and Chemical Treatments
Heat styling tools like hairdryers, straighteners, and curling irons can cause significant damage to your hair over time, especially when used frequently. The high temperatures can weaken the hair shaft, leading to split ends, breakage, and a lackluster appearance. Similarly, chemical treatments like dyeing, perming, and relaxing can strip your hair of its natural oils and compromise its strength.
To maintain healthy hair, try to minimize your use of heat styling tools and chemical treatments. When you do use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray to create a barrier between your hair and the heat source. If possible, embrace more natural hairstyles that require less manipulation, and give your hair regular breaks from styling to allow it to recover.
Manage Stress Levels
Stress can have a profound impact on your hair’s health. Prolonged periods of stress are known to cause hair thinning or hair loss, a condition known as telogen effluvium. When your body is under stress, it can prematurely push hair follicles into the resting phase, which may lead to increased shedding.
Managing stress effectively is key to promoting healthy hair growth. Regular physical activity, such as yoga, swimming, or walking, can help reduce stress levels and improve circulation, which benefits your scalp and hair follicles. Mindfulness practices, including meditation and deep breathing, can also promote relaxation and balance, positively impacting both your mental health and hair health.
Follow a Gentle Hair Care Routine
A gentle hair care routine is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Avoid washing your hair every day, as this can strip your scalp of natural oils that are necessary for keeping your hair moisturized and protected. Instead, aim to wash your hair two to three times a week, depending on your hair type and scalp condition.
When washing, choose a sulfate-free shampoo and a conditioner that suits your hair’s needs, whether it’s for hydration, volume, or strengthening. Gently massage your scalp to stimulate blood circulation, which encourages hair growth. After washing, avoid vigorous towel drying, as this can cause breakage—opt for gently squeezing out excess water with a soft towel or an old cotton T-shirt instead.
Brushing your hair properly is also important. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush designed for your hair type to avoid pulling or snagging. Start detangling from the ends and work your way up to prevent damage. Regular trims every six to eight weeks can also help keep split ends at bay, promoting healthier, fuller-looking hair.
