Dry hair. We’ve all been here. And some of us, more often than we’d like to admit, especially during the Winter months where no matter how many hair masks and oils you apply, you just can’t seem to win.
So, what does work to boost hair hydration? Is there a magic pill? Let’s find out.
Tip 1. Sleep on a silk pillowcase for hydrated hair
Queue a silk pillowcase. If there is one thing you need to increase hair hydration and lock-in moisture, it’s a high quality silk pillowcase. We spend approximately 26 years of our lives sleeping! If that’s not reason enough, then what is? There is a reason why silk is the new black. I mean, if the likes of Kim Kardashian, Cindy Crawford, Victoria Beckham and others are using silk, there must be a few reasons why. Let’s dive in.
Mulberry silk pillowcases are all natural and hypoallergenic, deeming them a great choice for all skin and hair types including those prone to scalp irritation, breakouts and allergens. So why are silk pillowcases good for hydrating hair? Silk fabric helps retain hair moisture rather than stripping it like other fabrics such as cotton. For this reason silk pillowcases are especially helpful for those with naturally curly hair or hair that is prone to dryness. In turn, sleeping on silk reduces the chance of hair damage, including breakage, split ends and tangling. Consider it the hyaluronic acid of the hair care world.
Tip 2. Stop shampooing your hair daily
We know. You’ve heard it before (many times). So have we. But there is truth to it. While it might feel great to keep your locks fresh at all times, it’s actually drying your hair out. Here’s why.
Shampooing your hair daily negatively impacts your hair's hydration levels and overall health. This is because shampoo is designed to remove dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair. The problem isn’t this. The problem is that it also strips away natural oils that keep your hair moisturised. When you shampoo your hair too frequently, it can leave your scalp and hair dry and brittle, leading to breakage and split ends. It doesn’t stop there. Excessive washing can irritate your scalp, causing it to produce even more oil to compensate, which can lead to an oily scalp, greasy hair and more-than-normal itchiness. And let’s face it, who wants to be scratching their head all day as if there is a lice infestation in it?! To maintain healthy hair, it is recommended to wash it no more than 2-3 times per week and to use a gentle, moisturising shampoo, followed by a hydration conditioner to lock in moisture.
Tip 3. Avoid using heat on your hair
Heat equals hair dryness. So, tools like hair dryers, curling wands and straighteners are not your hair’s best friend. Using heat on your hair, causes the moisture in your hair to evaporate, leaving it dehydrated and more prone to breakage and split ends. If you thought that was alarming, read this. Use of excessive heat, whether from a hair dryer, straightening iron or curling wand, can actually damage the protein bonds in your hair, leading to weaker strands and the appearance of dull hair. Over time, this damage caused by heat styling can accumulate, resulting in significant hair loss. I know we’re not alone in saying that we definitely don’t want that!
A study published in the International Journal of Trichology, found that heat styling is a major contributor to hair damage and can cause significant changes to the hair’s structure and chemistry (Shetty, A et al. 2018). What the study showed was that heat styling tools can cause hair to lose its natural moisture, making it more susceptible to damage and breakage.
But what is the alternative? Great question. Try things like towel wraps, air-drying, braids or using a Silk Heatless Hair Curler for a heat-free styling and drying option. A silk heatless hair curler is not only easy-to-use, but is great for boosting hair hydration because they are a gentle, non-abrasive way to style your hair without the use of heat. Say hello to soft, healthy curls, and goodbye to fried, dry hair.
Tip 4. Choose hair products that suit your hair
Choosing the right products for your hair is crucial when it comes to maintaining hair hydration. The wrong products can strip your hair of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle, while the right products can help to nourish and hydrate your hair, leaving it looking healthy and luscious.
For instance, if you have dry or damaged hair, you'll want to choose products that contain hydrating ingredients such as coconut oil, argan oil, or shea butter. On the other hand, if you have oily hair, you'll want to choose products that are lightweight and won't weigh your hair down. It's also important to choose products that are specifically formulated for your hair type, as this will ensure that they provide the right level of hydration and nourishment without causing any damage or irritation.
Tip 5. Opt for a leave-in hair moisturiser
Why settle for hair that's dry and dull when you can have luscious locks that are the envy of everyone around you? We know the answer. Using a good quality leave-in conditioner is one of the best ways to boost hair hydration and achieve a healthy, radiant look. Think about it, why would you limit your hydration routine to just the shower? Your hair deserves to be hydrated throughout the day, especially if you're constantly exposing it to heat, pollution, and other environmental stressors. A leave-in conditioner can provide the extra moisture and nourishment that your hair needs to stay soft, shiny, and healthy. Trust us, your hair will thank you for it!
The Bottom Line
So let’s recap. Achieving hydrated hair is not as difficult as it may seem. By implementing the right habits and using the right products, you can have hair that is healthy, shiny, and full of life.
From not over-shampooing to limiting heat styling and using a leave-in conditioner, there are several ways to boost your hair's hydration and overall health. So go ahead and pamper your hair like it's your BFF - after all, it's the crown you never take off! With a little bit of TLC, you can transform your hair from dry and dull to silky and smooth. So, let your hair down, show it some love, and watch it shine like never before!