Wednesday 25 June 2014

Home Remedies For Dry Hair



What is Dry Hair?
Hair, which does not have enough moisture to
maintain normal shine and texture, is termed as dry
hair.  Hair is made up of three layers. The outer layer
is meant to protect inner layers. When the outer layer
is damaged, it causes dry and dull hair. Hair follicles
are connected to sebaceous glands, which discharge
oil onto hair shaft. It is believed that person having
dry skin may have a problem of dry hair. Hair
becomes dry when natural oil from hair is removed
during activities, like sunbathing, swimming in
chlorinated water, overuse of hair dryers, and other
styling products. Women and men of any age can
develop the problem of dry hair.
Causes
Dry hair is very hard to comb. They appear like brittle
or straw. There are various causes which makes hair
dry and unhealthy. They are:
Certain medical conditions
Heredity problem
Loss of elasticity or strength
High porosity
Cuticle damage
Excessive washing of hair with harsh alcohols
and soaps
Dry and hot climate (dry air)
Underactive thyroid
Malnutrition
Excessive use of blow dryers
Anorexia Nervosa
Underactive parathyroid
Excessive hairstyling
Exposure to sun
Swimming in chlorinated water
Menses kinky hair disease
Lack of moisture in hair
Using excessive chemical treatments, like
dye, relaxers, etc.
Using cotton pillow while sleeping
Dehydration
Skipping conditioners
Signs and Symptoms
It is very hard to deal with damaged and dry hair. The
following symptoms indicate that your strands are
dry:
Dull hair
Lack of luster and shine
Brittle or harsh texture
Tangled hair
Unmanageable rough hair
Split ends
Hair breakage
Hyper-absorption
Itchy scalp
Overly porous
No elasticity
Home Remedies for Dry Hair
Just to look classy in parties, people try various hair
styles and harsh products, which damage the natural
beauty of hair. It is necessary that hair problems, like
hair fall, split ends, dry hair, dandruff, itchy scalp, etc.
should be treated somehow to maintain proper health
of hair. Dry hair is a very common problem in today’s
generation. Instead of taking several hair treatments,
try some natural home remedies. Have a look at
some beneficial ingredients, which are effective for
dry strands.
1. Unboiled Milk
To heal dry hair, pour some unboiled milk in a bowl.
Soak a cotton ball in the milk and apply it directly on
hair and scalp. After one hour, wash your hair
thoroughly.
2. Sesame Oil
Sesame oil is excellent nourishing oil. As it is rich in
vitamins and minerals, it helps in strengthening hair
and increasing blood circulation in the scalp. Simply
mix one tablespoon each of root juice, lemon juice,
and sesame oil. Apply this mixture on the scalp and
hair. Wrap your head with a hot towel. After half an
hour, rinse with shampoo.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
To treat dry hair, apple cider vinegar is very effective.
Instead of using expensive shampoos for hair, a
simple pack or massage of apple cider vinegar works
better. All you are required to do is to take out some
apple cider vinegar in a bowl. With the help of a
cotton ball, apply it on the scalp and hair. Rinse your
hair after 5-10 minutes.
You can also use diluted apple cider vinegar. Mix
apple cider vinegar and warm water in equal
proportion. Apply it after shampooing your hair. It will
work as a conditioner and will help manage your hair
properly.
4. Eggs
One of the most used remedies for dry hair is egg
yolk. Egg yolk works as a natural moisturizer and
conditioner for dry hair. Mix two eggs with half cup of
olive oil. Stir the mixture well and apply it directly on
hair. Cover your head with a shower cap. Rinse after
one hour.
To moisturize dry and rough hair, use egg whites.
Separate white part of egg and damp it on hair. Leave
it for 20 minutes and then, wash it off.
You can also add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive
oil in 3 eggs. Stir it well, adding one tablespoon
honey. You can also put in a few drops of lemon juice
in it. Apply the mixture on hair and scalp and cover
with a shower cap. Wash it off with lukewarm water
after 30 minutes.
Egg can also be used with yogurt. Just beat two eggs
in half cup of full-fat yogurt. Add 1½ tablespoons of
almond oil. Stir it well until it turns creamy. Massage
your scalp and hair with this mixture. After massage,
cover your head with a towel, and wash it off with
lukewarm water after half an hour.
Prepare a mixture of three eggs, one tablespoon of
olive oil, one tablespoon of vinegar, and one
tablespoon of coconut oil. Stir it well, adding a few
drops of rosemary essential oil. Apply this mixture on
the head for 20 minutes and rinse it off with regular
shampoo.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is considered to be a magical remedy for
curing dry hair. For using coconut oil, you just have
to massage some coconut oil on your hair and scalp.
With the help of finger tips, massage your scalp.
Leave it for the whole night. Rinse it off in the
morning.
You can also use warm coconut oil.
6. Curry Leaves
Curry leaves are not just a good ingredient to add
taste to your food, but also a useful remedy for the
treatment of hair. Curry leaves are enriched with
calcium, vitamins, phosphorous, and iron. Heat two
tablespoons of coconut oil adding 5-6 curry leaves in
it. Heat it for a few minutes and allow it to cool down.
Apply it on the scalp and hair. Wrap a warm towel on
the head for 15 minutes. This ayurvedic treatment will
surely nourish your hair.
7. Yogurt
Yogurt is a natural conditioner for dry hair. It can be
applied as a mask on hair. The moisturizing
properties of yogurt help in curing dry hair. Add a
teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and a teaspoon of
honey in half cup of yogurt. Mix it and apply it on hair
and hair roots. After 15 minutes, rinse your hair with
warm water.
Add some olive oil or mustard oil in yogurt and apply
it on hair before shampooing your hair.
You can also apply plain yogurt on the scalp and
leave it for 30 minutes. Wash your hair with warm
water.
Note- These yogurt recipes should be used in the
warm summer months as yogurt brings down the
body temperature.
8. Milk
Milk is a natural blend of proteins, vitamins, minerals,
and fats, which acts as a nutrient for the body and
helps in strengthening cells, including hair cells. Add
¼ cup of goat milk powder in some water to create a
smooth paste. Spread this paste on hair while
massaging with it. Wrap your head with a warm
damp towel. Wash your hair with a herbal shampoo
after some time.
To get smooth and shiny hair, separate egg yolk in a
bowl and add a few drops of olive oil in it. Add half
teaspoon of sugar in it. Stir it well. Shampoo your hair
with lukewarm water. Then, apply milk on the head
and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. After a stipulated
time, wash your hair. Now, massage your hair with
the prepared yolk and olive oil mixture. Again, wash
your hair with cold water and dry them with hair
dryer.
9. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seed is one of the natural remedies for dry
hair. The conditioning properties of fenugreek seeds
help in managing dry hair. Soak 50 gm fenugreek
seeds in water for overnight. Next morning, crush
them to make a fine paste. Add four tablespoons of
yogurt to it. Add a few drops of olive oil and some
honey to it. Mix all the ingredients well.
Apply this paste on hair and scalp. Wrap it with a
shower cap and leave it for 45 minutes. Rinse off
your hair with a mild shampoo. For effective results,
practise this method twice a week.
You can also simply apply plain fenugreek paste on
hair. It also provides effective results.
10. Bananas
Banana is a natural remedy for the treatment of dry
hair. They are rich in potassium, antioxidants, and
vitamins, which makes them a beautifying fruit. For
the treatment of dry hair, you need to prepare a
banana paste. Just blend two over ripe bananas and
add one tablespoon each of coconut oil, honey, and
olive oil. Apply this paste on hair for 15 minutes.
Wash off your hair with warm water.
You can also use bananas with egg. Grind two over
ripe bananas and add 2 eggs. Beat the mixture
properly adding a few drops of honey to it. Apply this
pack on hair and scalp. After half an hour, rinse off
with shampoo.
11. Olive Oil
Olive oil is the best treatment for dry hair. Olive oil
can be used for massaging your head or as a hair
pack. All you need to do is to warm some olive oil.
Apply it on the scalp with your finger tips. Massage
your hair for some time. Rinse your hair with a
shampoo to remove oil from hair.
To prepare olive oil pack, you are required to blend
one egg and a peeled cucumber. Add four
tablespoons of olive oil to it. Apply this smooth
mixture on hair and wear a shower cap on head.
After 10 minutes, wash off your hair twice with a
shampoo.
You also have an option to use olive oil with egg yolk.
Just mix two tablespoons of olive oil in two egg
yolks. To dilute it, add this mixture in half cup of
water. Apply this paste directly on the head for 20
minutes. Wash your hair with shampoo.
12. Honey
Honey is a nourishing product for hair. Prepare a
paste of two tablespoons of honey, one tablespoon of
buttermilk or yogurt, and one tablespoon of coconut
oil. Stir it well and warm it. Apply this mixture on your
strands. Cover your hair with a shower cap. Rinse off
your hair after 20 minutes.
You can prepare a honey hair mask by combining
three tablespoons of olive oil and half cup of honey.
Apply it on hair and scalp. Wrap your head with a
warm towel. After 30 minutes, shampoo your hair.
13. Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is rich in proteins and helps in making
your hair soft, shiny, and healthy. Take half cup of full
fat mayonnaise. Apply it on your scalp and hair.
Massage gently. Then, cover your head with a plastic
cap. Let it rest for half an hour. Rinse off with
lukewarm water.
You can also add 1/3 cup of almond oil in ¼ cup of
mayonnaise. Add 1-2 egg in it and stir the mixture
well. Apply it on hair. Wear a shower cap, if needed.
Wash off your hair with diluted vinegar.
Mayonnaise oil can also be applied on hair. After 15
minutes, rinse your hair.
14. Avocado
For the treatment of dry hair, you can prepare hair
mask of avocado. For this, puree the inner part of
avocado. Add ¼ cup of milk and 1 tbsp of olive or
coconut oil in the puree and stir it well. Apply this
creamy avocado puree on hair and hair roots. Wear a
shower cap for 15 minutes. Wash off your hair with
lukewarm water.
Else, add a few drops of peppermint essential oil in
mashed avocado paste. Apply this paste after
shampooing your hair. Let it rest for fifteen minutes.
Rinse off with water.
You can also use mayonnaise with avocado. Mash
the pulp of avocado adding some mayonnaise in it.
Massage this paste directly on hair roots and hair.
After 20 minutes, shampoo your strands.
To get shiny hair, heat some coconut oil for 10
seconds and massage your hair with it. Let it rest for
some time. Meanwhile, blend pulp of avocado and
banana to form a paste. Apply this paste on hair.
After 10-15 minutes, rinse off with shampoo and cold
water.
You can also prepare a paste of avocado and yogurt.
To control dry hair, mix inner part of avocado and
some yogurt to make a smooth paste.  Apply it
directly on hair as a hair mask. For best results,
apply this pack twice a week.
15. Beer
Beer is considered to be a good conditioner for hair. It
is also known for promoting hair growth and
maintaining shine of hair. Being an excellent tonic,
beer is enriched with proteins and vitamin B. Firstly,
wash your hair. Spray beer all over your hair. You
have to simply replace a conditioner with beer. Leave
it for some time. Use a blow dryer to remove the
smell of beer.
Beer becomes a nourishing conditioner, when added
with egg and essential oil. Mix a few drops of jojoba
oil in 8 ounces dark beer and apply it on hair. After 15
minutes, wash hair with lukewarm water.
You can also mix two tablespoons of apple cider
vinegar in two cups of beer. Use it as a conditioner.
16. Filtered Shower
The water, you use for shampooing your hair,
contains a large amount of chlorine, which may
destroy our hair and causes several problems, like
hair loss, split ends, dry hair, and itchy scalp. For
maintaining shine and strength of hair, use filtered
shower. Filtered shower reduces the contents of
sulphur and chlorine.
17. Gelatine
Gelatine is used to strengthen hair. For the treatment
of dry hair, you need to heat a cup of water. Add one
packet of gelatine to it. Stir it well to form a thick gel.
Shampoo your hair and apply gelatine on hair and
scalp. After some time, rinse your hair with warm
water.
Alternatively, add gelatine to your regular shampoo
and rinse your hair with it.
You can also prepare a mixture of one tablespoon of
gelatine, one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, and
four drops of rosemary essential oil. Add all the
ingredients in a cup of filtered water. Massage this
mixture on shampooed hair. After 15 minutes, wash
your hair. To experience positive effects, practise this
method once a week.
18. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a natural moisturizer for skin and is a
natural conditioner for hair. Apply some aloe vera
juice directly on hair. Wash it off after a few minutes.
Prepare a mixture of four tablespoons of aloe vera
gel, two tablespoons of coconut oil, and three
tablespoons of yogurt. Stir it properly and apply it on
hair.
You can also prepare a paste of aloe vera by adding
two teaspoons of crushed hibiscus flower paste and
one teaspoon olive oil in half cup of aloe vera gel.
Another way of preparing paste of aloe vera is to add
two teaspoons of castor oil in half cup of aloe vera
gel. Add two teaspoons of fenugreek powder and one
teaspoon of basil powder to it. Mix all the ingredients
well to form a thick paste. Before going to sleep,
apply this paste on hair as a mask and let it stay for
overnight. Next morning, wash hair with a mild
shampoo.
19. Essential Oil Treatment
Dry hair can also be treated with essential oils. The
essential oil nourishes hair and maintains its strength,
shine, and bounce. You simply have to massage your
hair and scalp with essential oils for some time. The
essential oils, used for treating dry hair, are
sandalwood, rosemary, geranium, and lavender. Oil
massage can be done before shampooing your hair.
Else, add one tbsp of honey with one tsp of jojoba oil.
Add one teaspoon each of olive oil, apple cider
vinegar, and safflower. Add yolk of an egg. Along with
these ingredients, add four drops each of geranium,
sandalwood, and neroli essential oils. Massage your
scalp with this mixture for 15 minutes. Rinse off with
clean water.
20. Papaya Pack
Papaya is enriched with essential nutrients, which are
helpful in boosting hair growth. To prepare papaya
pack, you have to mix one cup of diced papaya and
one cup of diced banana in one cup of yogurt. Add
one tablespoon each of honey and coconut oil to it.
Blend it to make a paste. Use this paste on your
strands. Wear a shower cap. After 30 minutes, wash
your hair.
21. Lemon Juice
Lemon is a citrus fruit, which helps in maintaining
healthy hair by alleviating several hair problems, like
dandruff, itchy scalp, and hair fall. For the treatment
of dry and dull hair, wash your hair and then, apply
one tablespoon of lemon juice on hair and dry your
hair with a towel.
22. Omega-3 Rich Food
Omega-3 is an essential food for healthy hair. It helps
in fighting against the hair problems, like hair fall, dry
and itchy scalp, and less circulation to the scalp. You
are advised to consume omega-3 rich foods to
maintain healthy hair. Omega-3 also promotes hair
growth.
23. Almond Oil
Almond oil is a good remedy for dry hair. You simply
have to heat two tablespoons of almond oil for 40
seconds. Add a few drops of vanilla extract for
adding fragrance to oil. Massage it evenly on your
hair with fingertips. Let it rest for 30 minutes. Rinse it
off using shampoo and cool water.
You can also use almond oil with egg. You need to
blend one raw egg and ¼ cup of almond oil. Use it on
your hair and let it rest for 40 minutes. After some
time, wash your hair with a nourishing shampoo and
clean water.
24. Pumpkin
Pumpkins are natural moisturizer for hair as they are
rich in vitamins. To prepare a hair mask with the help
of pumpkin, you have to slice one pumpkin in
quarters and boil it for 20 minutes. After boiling, mash
it with a potato masher to form a paste. Add plain
yogurt in the paste. Stir it well and apply it on hair for
15-20 minutes. Rinse your hair with shampoo.
You can also use pumpkin juice for curing dry and
damaged hair. Prepare a puree of 2 cups of cooked
and chopped pumpkins. Add one tablespoon each of
honey, coconut oil, and yogurt to it. Blend all the
ingredients to form a fine puree. Apply it on your hair
and wear a plastic cap. After 15 minutes, rinse your
hair.
25. Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder works effectively on dry hair. Just
prepare a mixture of honey, apple cider vinegar,
cocoa powder, and plain yogurt. Apply it on hair. Rise
hair after some time.
26. Chamomile
Chamomile tea is another natural home remedy for
dry hair. To treat dry and frizzy hair, prepare
chamomile tea. Place a chamomile tea bag in half
cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for some time
and add ¼ cup of olive oil to it. Stir the solution well
and pour it over your hair. This will hydrate your hair
and repair split ends and dryness.
27. Sugar Water
Sugar water also helps to treat dry hair. Add a
teaspoon of sugar in a cup of water. Stir it well until
sugar gets dissolved completely. Now, pour little
sugar water on your palm and run your hands over
dry hair. It acts just like a hair spray.
28. Aspirin
Use of aspirin for the treatment of dry hair may
sounds very weird. But, aspirin is effective on dull
hair. Crush 1-2 aspirin tablets and mix them with
regular shampoo. The salicylic acid present in aspirin
restores the shine of hair.
29. Tea Tree Oil
Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties of tea tree oil
help in fighting against itchy scalp and dry hair. It
works as a natural conditioner. Just add a few drops
of tea tree oil to your regular conditioner and apply it
on your hair.
You can also pour a few drops of tea tree oil in your
shampoo. Else, always use a mild shampoo enriched
with tea tree oil, which is suitable for all hair types.
Alternatively, massage your hair with tea tree oil.
Note- Do not apply excessive tea tree oil on straight
and thin hair.
30. Castor Oil
Castor oil works wonder on dry hair. It is a natural
remedy for various hair problems, like hair loss,
dandruff, split ends, dry scalp, hair breakage, dry
hair, etc. To heal dry hair, castor oil is effective as it
acts as a conditioner. Apply castor oil with your
fingertips on hair and scalp. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
Wash hair with shampoo.
31. Shea Butter
Shea butter is a natural conditioner for hair. It acts as
a protective layer for hair against harmful UV rays.
The anti-inflammatory properties of shea butter help
in treating dry hair. You need to melt 100 gm shea
butter in a double boiler. On cooling, add 20 gm
apricot kernel oil to it. Whip the mixture and add 20
drops of lemongrass oil, 10 drops of rosemary oil,
and 40 gm cornstarch. Mix it well and apply it on
hair.
32. Cocoa Butter
Cocoa butter is also a natural conditioner for dry hair.
Prepare a paste by mixing 8 ounces of raw cocoa
butter pieces, 2 ounces of jojoba oil, and 1 ounce of
sesame oil or sweet almond oil. Allow it to rest until
the mixture gets thick. Soak your hair with water.
Take the mixture in your palm and apply it on hair. It
can be used before shampooing your hair or as a
conditioner.
33. Argan Oil
Argan oil is considered to be useful oil for hair as it
maintains the health of your strands. It is used for
deep conditioning your hair. Simply massage some
Argan oil on the scalp and hair. Then, wrap your head
in a wet warm towel. Rinse it off after 1-2 hours with
a mild shampoo. For best results, leave it overnight.
Practice this method, once a week.
34. Ghee
Ghee is enriched with unrefined fats, which nourishes
your hair. It works against split ends, hair loss, dry
hair, etc. Apply some ghee directly on your strands
and scalp. Wash it off after some time with shampoo.
It makes hair silky soft. It also works as a natural
hair conditioner.
35. Black Tea
Black tea is a natural conditioner for dry hair. Prepare
a cup of black tea by placing tea bag in a cup of hot
water. Pour it on your hair. Spread it evenly all over
your head. Leave it for 20-30 minutes and then, wash
it off.
36. Homemade Herbal Shampoo
To prepare herbal shampoo at home, you need 500
gm shikakai, 250 gm fenugreek, 250 gm green gram,
100 gm soap beans, and one packet each of curry
leaves and basil leaves. You have to keep all the
ingredients in a clean cloth under the sun for two
days. When they get dry, crush them all to make a
fine powder. When required, mix a little quantity with
water to shampoo your hair.
37. Bottle Gourd Juice
Extract some juice of fresh bottle gourd. Apply it on
your hair. Allow it to rest for half an hour. Wash it
thoroughly with water.
Preventive Measures
Beautiful hair is the identity of a woman. Every
woman wants to have thick, shiny, and healthy hair.
But, what if hair is damaged and dull? Today, most of
the youth is suffering from hair problems, like hair
fall, dandruff, dry hair, etc. To prevent your beautiful
hair from getting damaged and dry, you need to adopt
the following preventive measures:
Rinse your hair with cold water.
Do not wash your hair frequently.
Do not tie your hair tightly.
Do not use a comb with plastic bristles.
Avoid combing wet hair.
Trim your hair regularly.
Avoid using hair dryers.
Drink plenty of water.
Maintain a proper diet.
Practice stress-relief and relaxing activities.
Massage your hair before shampooing.
Avoid harsh chemicals.
Use a conditioner after hair wash.
Protect hair from UV rays by applying
suitable sprays, creams, and serums.
Consume walnuts, salmon, eggs, sweet
potatoes, spinach, lentils, oysters, and
blueberries.
Wear a hat or cap while stepping out in the
sun.
Use a satin or silk pillow while sleeping.
Avoid smoking.
Avoid using the flat iron on wet hair.

No comments:

Post a Comment