Healthy, silky hair is something we all want, but in our fast paced, fast food world, dry hair is what many of us have. The long, luxurious locks on models in fashion magazines and the flowing curls of the girls on shampoo bottles may seem out of reach for the rest of us, but take heart. Not only is it inexpensive to treat your hair that is dry, you don't even have to visit a salon. All the products necessary to treat dry or damaged hair can be found in your local discount store or supermarket; in fact, you may already have many of the products at home in your medicine cabinet or kitchen.
The first step to combating dry hair is proper grooming. A good hair cut can remove split or damaged ends, and put a new bounce in an otherwise drab look. Shampoo your hair regularly, as needed, but keep in mind that hair that is very dry may need to be shampooed less, or simply shampoo the roots.
All hair needs to be conditioned, but dry hair often requires deep conditioning. Condition it each time you shampoo, and consider using a weekly oil treatment. Olive oil is a good choice. Many salons and fancy brands of conditioner advertise deep conditioning, but you can deep condition simply by putting your favorite conditioner on your hair, covering it with a plastic cap, and leaving it in for at least 30 minutes.
Dry hair is often caused by too much time in the sun, chlorine, salt water, over-shampooing, permanents, heat styling, or neglect. Protection from the elements is the next step in treating hair. Consider using a conditioner with an SPF of at least 15, or even better, wear a hat when out in the sun. Use a swimming cap while in pools or salt water, and always rinse your hair thoroughly after swimming.
Heat styling such as hair dryers, curling irons, and hot curlers all cause dry hair. Perms, bleaching and color treatments cause it as well. Although we like our curls and colors, going natural is one of the best ways to avoid drying out the hair.
Lastly, consider what goes on with the rest of your body. Many times, problems with the hair indicates a poor diet or even mild dehydration. Always drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet of good proteins, fats and carbohydrates, and consider vitamin and mineral supplements. Vitamins A, C, E, and calcium are all good for improving the condition of your hair.
Exercise and a good night's rest are good for the rest of your body, but they also help treat dry hair. Exercise contributes to proper blood flow, and sleep will give you better health overall. Just like anything else that is important to you and requires care, give your hair the care it needs.
