Many of us are obsessed with the length of our locks. We can be so engrossed in having long hair that we forget to properly care for it. A woman can have hair to her waist, yet the last two inches of that marvelous length are riddled with split and dry ends! The key to long hair is in healthy hair. If we can get over our obsession with length and focus on the condition of our mane, we’d have tresses down to our calves! Listed below are a few key steps necessary in maintaining a great head of hair.
Trim
Does it seem like your hair just stops growing after a point? It's probably because you're not trimming it. Regular trims actually encourage hair growth. They also help you ward off split ends while you are growing.
The right frequency of a trim varies. Non-chemically treated hair in better than average condition only requires a trim about two or three times a year. However, hair that is color treated or relaxed requires a little more maintenance - A trim should be done about every six to eight weeks. Based on the condition of your hair it’s usually best to check with your stylist.
Condition
This cannot be stressed enough! However, prior to conditioning, washing with a great low-poo or no-poo cleanser is best. Try to avoid shampoos that contain Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfates. Luscious locks need to be deep conditioned at least twice per month.
An example of a great deep conditioning treatment is to mix a palm-full of your favorite deep conditioner with a teaspoon of E.V.O.O (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) or even coconut oil (100% organic, unrefined). Cover with a plastic cap and sit underneath a dryer for about 15 or 20 minutes. Rinse well and do not shampoo afterwards.
Styling
Depending upon your preferred method (more than likely heat will be involved), direct heat (blow dryer, flat iron, etc.) will always need to be shielded against with a thermal protectant. After shampooing and conditioning, pat hair dry with a paper towel (do not use a terrycloth towel) and apply your heat protector. The best blow dryers and flat irons are typically tourmaline and ceramic treated which helps to seal hair cuticles and lock in moisture.
Moisturize
Great moisturizers are often natural ones. Many commercial products are loaded with mineral oil, petrolatum and/or silicone. All of these ingredients help to weaken the hair shaft, rather than strengthen it. Great natural moisturizers include jojoba oil, coconut oil, and shea butter - to name a few. Aloe vera gel can also be used in place of your usual hair gel. A visit to your local natural food store will provide you with all of these ingredients (and more!).
Discipline along with a good regimen will have you well on your way towards strong hair that’s vibrant and full of vigor. Take good care of your hair; avoid heat styling as often as possible. Use the lightest heat setting and try to avoid daily use. Find a moisturizing solution that works best for you and stick with it. Trim, condition, style and moisturize! Maintain a dedicated, steady schedule and within about five months you will notice longer, stronger and healthier hair. Have patience and you’ll see!
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Thanks to Wesley B of honeybrownsugar.com for writing this article for Misikko!
