Home Treatments for Dry Hair
Actions performed in search of the "good hair day"--cleansing, coloring and styling--turn out to be the culprits of dry, brittle hair. The affluence of Americans has afforded many the opportunities to seek professional help in search of a solution to their dry hair woes. The more frugal consumer takes advantage of common items, readily available at retailers or in her own kitchen and garden, to combat and repair dry hair at home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Oils
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Oil-based products can be effective tools to correct damage. A trip to any drug store provides several options, from pre-shampoo treatments to finishing sprays. Hot oil treatments are popular and inexpensive and have been used for decades. Olive oil, coconut oil, mashed avocado and mayonnaise are natural solutions that give similar results. The addition of heat helps the oil penetrate the hair shaft. After use, a thorough washing with a good quality shampoo is necessary.
Cream Conditioners
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The most common conditioner is the daily cream conditioner. Normally applied following shampoo, these inexpensive formulas provide light conditioning without greasiness or buildup. They are rinsed out after the recommended time--normally one to three minutes.
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Leave-in Treatments
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Typical leave-in treatments are applied after washing and towel drying. They are combed through from roots to ends. Besides adding moisture to parched hair, they help with detangling. An at-home version uses a mixture of distilled water and daily conditioner, applied with a spray bottle. Commercial varieties are available in creams and liquids, with prices to fit any budget.
Serums
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New additions to the dry hair battle, serums are composed of silicone derivatives. A small amount of the serum is smoothed on after drying, helping to control fly-aways and increase shine. Caution should be used when judging the quantity to be applied. Excessive amounts can result in a greasy finish.
Washing
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Improper and frequent washing cause the most damage. Shampoo is designed to strip the natural oils from hair, leaving it dry and vulnerable. The importance of choosing the correct formula can be the difference between a good hair day and a bad hair day. A cool water rinse closes the hair cuticle, helping to control frizz, a result of dry hair. Cornstarch may be used as a dry shampoo in between washings.
Styling Tools
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Professional-quality styling tools can help protect hair and improve its condition. Modern hair dryers replace high heat with a cool-air option, a gentle alternative for fragile hair. Ionic dryers, curlers and flat irons release safe levels of ozone onto the hair, claiming to correct previously inflicted damage. Brushes made with natural bristles, such as boar, help to tame static, another result of dryness.
Diet and Vitamins
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Hair growth and health are dependent on receiving necessary nutrients. Improving the quality of your diet can have dramatic effects on the condition of your tresses. Fish, lean meats and iron-rich vegetables are healthy hair nourishment. Supplements have been marketed to consumers looking to fix dry hair from the inside out.
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