When we think of anti-aging tips, we often think of skin not hair. Turns out, there are ways to keep your hair looking luscious, soft, and shiny even as you grow older. Here are a few golden rules.
1. Don’t Shampoo Too Much
Shampooing too often, strips away the natural oils that protect your hair and keep it soft and shiny. If your roots get greasy often, and you absolutely have to wash it daily, use a sulfate and detergent-free shampoo only on the roots of your hair.
2. Use Conditioner
Condition every time you wash your hair. And contrary to popular belief, it’s okay to put conditioner at your roots. It helps hydrate the scalp after washing, sort of like moisturizer after you wash your face. Use a deep conditioning mask once a week to ensure that your hair stays nourished.
3. Rinse With Cold Water
Rinse out your conditioner with cold water. This closes the pores in your scalp. When your pores stay open, moisture tends to escape from them. As a result, your hair gets frizzy and dry. To keep your hair soft and healthy, finish your wash with cold water.
4. Use A Natural Bristle Brush
Brush out your tangles every day with a natural bristle brush. These brushes are made of fine hairs which distribute the oils from the top of your head all the way down the shaft.
5. Watch Your Diet
Healthy hair starts from within so make sure you’re feeding it the right things. A good mix of fresh fruits and vegetables will give it the nutrition it needs. Since your hair is mostly made up of protein, it’s not a bad idea to add in some lean protein-rich foods as well.
6. Keep Things Loose
Avoid tight hairstyles like ponytails, topknots, and updos. These pull on the roots near your face and can result in a receding hairline. This hair often does not grow back, so literally let your hair down, more often than not. If you must keep your hair out of your face, a low ponytail is the way to go.
7. Avoid Gels And Sprays
Hair gels and sprays make your hair stiff and prone to breakage. Instead, stick to serums and leave-in creams for shine and control. If you want hold, then use only a light misting from a distance.
8. Take Biotin Supplements
Biotin is a supplement that has been shown to decrease hair fall and prevent hair thinning. It’s even been seen to promote hair growth.1 Try taking a regular biotin supplement if you fear hair loss.
9. Wear A Sun Hat
You might not think your hair needs sun protection but your scalp definitely does. The sun can dry it out, leading to an unhealthy scalp. An unhealthy scalp leaves you prone to hair loss. If you’re heading out in the sun, try to wear a sun hat to protect yourself.
10. Drink Water
Your scalp needs plenty of moisture and one of the best ways to give it that is by giving it water from the inside. Keep yourself hydrated with 6-8 glasses of water a day. This is just an average estimate. You may need more or less depending on your body weight and other factors. Keeping hydrated is key to healthy hair and skin.
11. Massage Your Scalp
Massaging your scalp not only distribute the oils, but it also promotes blood circulation which keeps your scalp healthy. If you’re just watching TV or working at home, stop to give yourself a scalp massage. If you can find someone else to do it for you, even better! A good head massage is relaxing and it helps your hair grow out.
These easy anti-aging tips will definitely keep your hair shiny and healthy. Start trying them out today.
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