How to Keep Hair Strong & Healthy

Healthy hair is ultimately the key to beautiful hair. Women (and men) go to great lengths and spend tons of money to keep their hair looking good. Our hair defines us. It can express originality and personal style. With hair holding such a high standard, wouldn't it be important to keep it strong and healthy? We all know how we like to style our hair, but many of us fail to take proper care of it. Read on to find out how to keep your hair beautiful, strong and healthy.

Things You'll Need

• Apple cider vinegar
• Wide-toothed comb
• Shampoo and Conditioner (pH balanced)

Instructions

1. Use a shampoo that is pH balanced and works specifically for your type of hair--such as oily, dry or color-treated. Your hair stylist should be able to help you choose a shampoo and conditioner that works well with your hair. For extra shine, rinse out shampoo and conditioner with cool water.

2. Generously brush your hair before bed each night. Bend forward with your head down and hair hanging and brush from the back to the front. Repeat at least 50 times, 100 for longer or thicker hair. Doing this every night will help remove dirt and other debris that has built up throughout the day. It will also improve circulation in your scalp which will secrete natural oils and oxygen for better hair growth.

3. Eat a well-balanced diet. It's not just what you put on your hair that makes it healthy. A healthy diet and good nutrition are just as important. Salmon is by far the best food for your hair. It's packed with Omega-3 fatty acids which support scalp health and keep your hair from looking dull. Spinach is another super-food for healthy hair. It contains Vitamin A and Vitamin C. These vitamins help produce sebum, an oily substance that acts as a natural conditioner for your hair.

4. Rinse your hair once a week with apple cider vinegar to remove excess buildup from your scalp. Do this before shampooing and conditioning. You'll feel a significant difference when you run your fingers through your hair, and it will have much more natural shine.

5. Wait until your hair is almost completely dry before brushing. The wetter the hair, the more elasticity it has. This makes it more susceptible to breakage. A wide-toothed comb is your best option for gentle, effective hair brushing.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid using plastic hair brushes. They're cheap and ineffective, and they will likely only turn your hair into a ball of knots. Whenever possible, allow your hair to air dry naturally. Most of us can't go out without using chemicals and heated tools to style our hair. Try to use a day on the weekend to give it a break.

• Weather, gender, age, food, alcohol, and cigarettes all take part in overall hair health. It may sound obvious, but the healthier your lifestyle is, the healthier and more beautiful your hair will be.