For those, who still struggle with creating a working hair routine for hair, I've decided to come up with an all-in-one, ultimate formula. A hair care plan, if you will. Something simple yet highly effective. Something that gives your hair positive results in a matter of weeks. After years of trial and error, hours of research, and writing, here is the ultimate hair care routine (and a few hair care tips) that will transform your hair forever! And I seriously mean it. Let's dive into the world of healthy hair, shall we?
Disclaimer: Please note that the following beauty tips may not be suitable for every skin type or specific skin condition. Although I have compiled them from online sources and my personal experience, I am not a medical professional. Therefore, it is recommended that you consult with your dermatologist before experimenting with new ingredients, products, or treatments.
The Importance of Pre-wash Hair Treatments
Pre-wash hair treatment is an effective way to nourish and hydrate your hair before washing it. For some reason, this essential hair care step is always skipped or forgotten. Whether you have dry, damaged, color-treated, or healthy hair, incorporating a pre-wash treatment into your hair care routine can help you achieve healthier, shinier locks. Pre-wash treatments can come in various forms, including oils, masks, and sprays.
- Hair Care Mask
One of the most popular pre-wash hair care treatments is a hair mask. Hair masks are typically made with nourishing ingredients such as avocado, coconut oil, and honey, and are designed to deeply moisturize and condition the hair. Applying a hair mask once a week can help repair and prevent further damage to hair cuticles. Plus, hair masks add moisture and improve overall hair health.
- Scalp Care
Another popular pre-wash treatment is a scalp scrub. Scalp scrubs are typically made with exfoliating ingredients such as sugar or salt, designed to remove buildup and dead skin cells from the scalp. Using a scalp scrub once a week can help promote healthy hair growth and improve scalp health.
Another excellent pre-wash treatment to add to your hair care routine is scalp massage. You can simply use your fingers or massage with a tool. The goal of scalp massage is to increase blood flow to the hair follicles, promoting hair growth and preventing hair loss.
- Leave-in Conditioner
If you're short on time, a leave-in conditioner can also serve as a quick and effective pre-wash treatment. Simply apply a small amount of leave-in conditioner to your hair before shampooing, and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help hydrate and detangle your hair, making it easier to manage and style.
- Pre-wash for Colored Hair
For those with color-treated hair, a pre-wash treatment can help prevent color fading and damage. Look for treatments specifically designed for color-treated hair, such as those containing UV filters or antioxidants. This can help protect your hair from environmental damage and keep your color looking vibrant and fresh.
Wash Day: How to Wash Your Hair Gently?
Washing your hair is not just about getting it clean. It is about cleaning your scalp, hydrating and nourishing hair cuticles. However, what is even more important, is doing it gently, avoiding damaging your hair strands or scalp. Here are some tips to help you wash your hair gently and keep it healthy.
#1. Make sure the water in your shower is not too hot. Dermatologist Dr. Jaishree Sharad claims that hot water can damage hair in many ways. Start by wetting your hair thoroughly with warm water. Once your hair is damp apply a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo on your hair and scalp.
I like using solid shampoo by the vegan hair care brand Lola Cosmetics. This shampoo features granulated sugar, so it exfoliates the scalp and cleanses hair. All at once! The formula is very gentle for all hair types. Even if your hair is dry or color-treated, you'll find this shampoo delicate and non-drying.
#2. Once you apply the shampoo to your hair and scalp, massage your scalp gently with your fingertips. Don't use your nails, as this can cause scalp irritation. Focus on the roots of your hair, where most of the oil and dirt accumulate, and work your way down to the ends with a shampoo foam. Rinse your hair thoroughly with warm water.
#3. After rinsing out the shampoo, apply a conditioner. The conditioner will help to detangle your hair, making it silky and easy to comb. Choose a conditioner formulated for your hair type and apply it to the ends (or lower half ) of your hair. Avoid applying it to the roots. Leave the conditioner on for a few minutes before rinsing it out with warm water.
One of my favorite hair conditioners is also a nourishing bar by Lola Cosmetics. It comes in recycled paper packaging, and you can store it in a reusable plastic pot. I also like using the Dream Cream hair mask by Lola Cosmetics to condition my hair. It is rich, thick, and has an incredible scent!
#4. Once your hair is washed and conditioned, it is time to gently squeeze the excess water out. Use an old T-shirt or microfibre cloth for this. Avoid rubbing your hair with the towel, as it can cause breakage and split ends.
Delicate Combing and Patient Detangling
Detangling hair is a time-consuming yet satisfying ritual. A moment of self-love, if you will. Unfortunately, most of us ignore hair combing and detangling tips. Still, delicate hair combing and patient detangling are essential for healthy-looking, shiny hair. This hair care step requires a gentle and methodical approach, personalized to your hair type and current state. However, there are a few general hair-detangling tips that will be helpful for everyone's hair.
Comb hair before washing it:
This is especially important if you have long and thin hair. Use a hydrating pre-wash treatment to ease the detangling task.
Try to detangle it in the shower:
After washing your hair and applying a hair mask or conditioner, try detangling your hair with your fingers or a wide-tooth comb. If it doesn't work, don't force it! Wet hair is weak and prone to damage.
Get yourself a Tangle Teezer:
There are only two types of hair combs you'll actually need for detangling: a wide-tooth comb and a Tangle Teezer. A wide-tooth comb can help to separate the hair strands without pulling or tearing them, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends. Tangle Teezer works similarly, and it performs outstandingly with tiny hair knots. I got my first original Tangle Teezer in 2016, and use it daily since then.
Use hair oils and serums:
If your hair is damaged, dry, or thin and gets very tangled throughout the day or after washing, you can always use a few drops of natural oil or silicone-based serum. These products can help to moisturize and nourish the hair, making it easier to comb through and reducing the risk of breakage and split ends.
My personal favorites are coconut and jojoba oils. These natural oils have a bunch of beneficial nutrients for the hair, plus they are affordable. A few drops of oil go a long way! I use them as pre-wash treatments and later add some to the tips of my hair. If I feel my hair extra tangles, I like using just two tiny drops of Wunder Serum by Balea. It is cheap and works well with long, straight hair.
How to Protect Hair While Sleeping?
Tossing and turning during the night can lead to tangled and frizzy locks, causing us to spend extra time and effort trying to tame them in the morning. The best idea would be to protect your hair when you sleep by wrapping it up or creating a simple protective hairstyle (a loose braid or hair bun).
Additionally, you can invest in a silk or satin pillowcase. Unlike cotton fibers, these fabrics are gentle on hair, reduce friction and prevent hair breakage. Silk also helps keep your hair moisturized by preventing the loss of natural oils. Not only will your hair benefit, but your skin will too! Silk and satin pillowcases are hypoallergenic and less absorbent than cotton, meaning your skin will retain moisture, resulting in a more glowing complexion.
If you have long hair, you can also try sleeping with your hair wrapped in a silk or satin scarf. This will not only protect your hair from friction and tangling but will also help to preserve your hairstyle while you are dreaming.
To Trim or Not to Trim?
It is an excellent question, am I right? The answer to this question is obvious – to trim, without a doubt! Regular hair trimming has numerous benefits. First of all, it keeps your hair looking neat and tidy, preventing split ends from developing. Split ends can make hair look frizzy, dull, and unhealthy, causing damage further up the hair shaft if left unchecked.
It also helps to maintain the shape and style of your hair, making it easier to manage. Additionally, hair trimming can stimulate hair growth, as it helps to remove dead ends and promote healthy hair growth. So, if you want to grow your hair long and luscious, you have to give it a trim from time to time.
Final Thoughts...
In conclusion, a consistent hair care routine can do wonders for your locks. From regular trims to using the right hair care products and protecting your hair while you sleep, these simple steps can transform your hair, boosting your confidence. Take care of your hair, and it will show its gratitude by looking its best!
Lots of love,
Liz
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