Ayurveda and Hair Care

I am a huge believer that life is way too short to settle for boring hair. But unfortunately the cost of a dazzling dyed do can be split ends, brittle strands, and overall damaged locks. And for those of you who haven't dyed your hair, I’m sure you've at least been victim to the irresistible magic of heat tools. Regardless of where you're at on your hair journey, here are a few tips to route you along the path to luscious healthy and beautiful hair. 

1. Invest in a silk pillowcase!! 

Prevention before intervention people! A silk pillowcase is essential to preserving hydration and preventing frizziness. This is because silk has a natural protein structure that allows for a more breathable and smooth texture. This limits the friction created when you move your head around and results in less tangles and breakage. It's great for brittle hair because it allows for hydration compared to standard cotton pillows that absorb moisture. 

2. Diet 

Let's get something straight: You are what you eat. It's important to consume essential vitamins and nutrients necessary for healthy, shiny hair. Your diet should include zinc, iron, proteins, biotin, and vitamin c! Eggs are great for zinc and biotin, both of which help induce growth through the production of a protein called keratin. Spinach and chicken are great sources of iron, which is crucial for hair growth and fullness. Fruits are rich sources of vitamin c so be sure to eat an apple a day.

3. Turn down the heat 

If you're anything like me, a hot shower is the move. Unfortunately, our hair doesn't agree and too much heat strips the protective layer of sebum and oils that are essential for shine and strength. Cold water will close up hair cuticles and preserve that layer of shine. A trick that I like to use is washing only your head under cold water towards the end of your regular warm shower. 

4. Less is more. 

Shampoo traps essential oils that help bring out the shine and luster of our hair. The more often you shampoo your hair, the more your body regulates the production of the oils that it just lost, which causes your hair to over produce oils, which then gets you to shampoo your hair again. The only way to break out of this damaging cycle is to simply experiment. Try going a few days extra without washing your hair then you normally would, and keep this consistent. You’ll notice that your body will naturally regulate itself to stop overproducing oils, which means you will go longer without greasy hair. Also, make sure to use sulfate and paraben-free shampoos!!

5. After Shower Hair Care is crucial 

Use a wide tooth comb or a wet brush to detangle your hair when it's wet. These tools are way more gentle then regular brushes and combs and perfect for wet hair. Don't tie your hair when it's wet, and try to let it air dry instead of using heat. A pro tip is to use a t-shirt instead of a towel because the fabric of a t-shirt is far more gentle and leaves your hair less prone to breakage. 

6. Serums, Masks, and Oils 

Hair masks are great for rejuvenation and moisture. Try tea tree oil for scalp dryness or irritation. Ingredients like olive oil, eggs, and avocado are popular because they infuse vitamins and add a layer of moisture to your hair. Mix 1 egg, ½ an avocado, and 2 tbsp of olive oil to create this mask. Leave it in your hair for 30 minutes-1 hr, and rinse off in the shower. 

7. Ayurvedic methods 

Two of my favorite Ayurvedic ingredients that help promote hair growth and health include hibiscus flower extract and Amla. These extracts are rich in amino acids and essential vitamins that prevent hair loss and help strengthen your hair. Another important source of hair damage and loss is stress! Shiro Abhyanga refers to a method in which you can massage your scalp and neck using essential oils. According to Yovan Health, some of the spots to target include Adhipati, the soft spot located 8 finger widths above the eyebrows in the center of the skull or Syamantaka, which is located 12 finger widths above the eyebrows on the skull where the hairs gather in a swirl. 

Written by Gloris Sajan, ZAILA Intern