If you want healthy looking hair (and let’s face it who doesn’t) maintaining a good hair care routine is an absolute must.
Ask most people what their everyday skincare habits are and you’ll likely get a fairly standardised list of rituals that include cleansing and toning, applying serums, moisturisers, night creams and perhaps the odd facial thrown in for good measure. Ask the same question to the same people about their hair care habits and you’re likely to be met with a limited response.
The truth is that whilst we have high expectations of the fashion accessory we wear every single day, we don’t always pay attention to what our hair needs the most. The result can be dry, damaged, dull, lifeless, brittle or colour-faded hair … there’s a whole lot of other less than complimentary adjectives out there too to describe those neglected locks, but you get the overall picture.
Having a good hair care routine in place is crucial to preserving the look and feel of your hair between salon visits. But what is it that your hair actually needs? And how do you find a routine that suits your individual hair type amongst the barrage of information that’s out there?
Regardless of hair type or any general concerns, every hair care routine should follow a few basic steps. How you wash and treat your hair, together with the products you use, can go a long way in maintaining smooth, shiny and manageable hair.
Here are our #8 top tips for healthy hair that everyone can benefit from:
#1. Washing your Hair
There is no single answer to how often you should wash your hair. Frequency should be based on the amount of oil your scalp produces. If your hair is oily you may need to wash it more frequently (as often as once a day) however if your scalp is drier, it will require less.
As we age, our scalps become less oily so you might not need to shampoo as often however if you start to notice visible flakes in your hair, you may need to cleanse on a more regular basis. Failure to do so can result in issues with dandruff or a range of other scalp diseases.
When washing, use a shampoo that is suitable for your hair type and concentrate shampoo on the scalp rather than washing the entire length of the hair. Failure to do so can result in flyaway hair that is coarse and dull in appearance. Gently massage shampoo into your scalp and when you rinse, simply let it flow through the length of the hair.
If your locks are coloured use a specially formulated colour shampoo as these tend to have a higher pH balance than regular shampoos, which helps to preserve the integrity of your colour. To avoid premature colour fading it is advisable not to wash your hair every day.
#2. Use a Conditioner
Using a conditioner can greatly improve the appearance of damaged hair as it increases shine, improves strength and decreases static electricity. When applying concentrate conditioner on the tips of the hair and not on the scalp.
As with shampoo, choose a conditioner that is formulated specifically for your hair type. If you’re not sure – ask your stylist!
#3. Try a Mask
If your budget will allow add a hair mask into your hair care routine. Specially formulated to nourish, strengthen and improve overall hair condition, masks can ultimately reduce hair breakage, smoothen frizz and make hair more manageable.
On average most masks are designed to be used once a week however, as with most things, one size does not always fit all. If hair is particularly dry or more damaged than usual it may benefit from this level being increased, just don’t overdo it! Overuse will simply weigh down your hair through product build up or make it appear greasy.
Wash hair with shampoo first and follow the manufacturer's instructions in terms of application. Leave on for a minimum of 5 minutes and always rinse and condition your hair afterwards.
#4. Be Gentle
Try and handle wet hair as little as possible. Avoid rubbing with a towel, instead wrap it up and let the towel absorb the moisture or simply leave to air dry naturally.
Only use a wet brush, tangle teezer or wide toothed comb to brush through damp hair. If you have tight curls, comb through whilst hair is still damp to avoid breakage. If fine, allow your hair to dry a little before gently combing through with a wide comb.
The same goes for dry hair – avoid pulling and tugging as much as you can. If you encounter any tangles, use a moisturising conditioner or detangling spray to help assist with stubborn knots.
Oh, and brushing your hair one hundred times a day …… it’s a myth! Keep brushing to a minimum.
#5. Protect from Heat Damage
If you’re relying on hairdryers or hot tools to style your hair, try and use the lowest heat settings and have a heat free day wherever possible. Use a heat protection spray if you can.
#6. Ditch the Ponytail
Avoid regularly pulling hair back tightly into a ponytail, bun or clip as these styles cause tension which can lead to premature breakage and hair loss. If you’re in a job where you need to tie your hair back, try and vary the style and use a scrunchie or popband rather than an elasticated hair bobble.
#7. Hair Extensions and Weaves
If you’re opting for hair extensions or weaves have them done professionally at a salon that specialises in them. Switch your hairstyles in between to allow time for your hair to recover and always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions.
#8. Protect Hair from UV Rays
If you’re in the sun, use a leave-in conditioner that contains zinc oxide or wherever possible, wear a sun hat.
Similarly, if you’re swimming, the damaging effects of chlorine can wreak havoc with your hair. Wet your hair prior to swimming and apply a conditioner. If you’re a regular water baby, use a tight-fitting swim cap and use a good shampoo and conditioner afterwards to replace any lost moisture.
The good news is that by regularly following these simple tips we can all take significant steps forwards in our quest for beautiful, healthy-looking hair. Not only that, we can also prevent any further damage from happening ….. as the saying goes prevention is better than cure!
Part of the solution is finding the correct combination of products for your individual hair type. If you’re not sure what you should be using, we’re always here to help, simply drop us a line at enquiries@josephferraroonline.co.uk or speak to your stylist on your next salon visit.
Joseph Ferraro Hair (JFH) Ltd is a team of professional stylists that deliver exceptional hairdressing services for the individual. Owned and founded by Authentic Beauty Concept Ambassador and North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year (2016), Joseph Ferraro, the JFH team is dedicated to providing expert hair care.
Should you need further information or advice on our range of products or wish to speak to a member of the team, please email enquiries@josephferraroonline.co.uk