HAIR DISORDERS (PART 2 OF 2)

HAIR DISORDERS (PART 2 OF 2)

3. DRY AND DAMAGED HAIR

Cause:

·         Keratin, a group of proteins, is known to form the primary component of hair fibre.

·         Certain bonds within the keratin molecules that are difficult to break, are a key factor behind the durability and resistance of hair fibre.

·         As we expose hair to constant chemical abuse (colouring and straightening), these bonds are constantly challenged, causing greater hair damage.

·         Frizzy hair can be a hereditary condition for some, and seasonal for others during the summer and monsoon months.

Cure:

·         Avoid over-exposure of hair to chemical products for styling your hair.

·         Avoid using a blow dryer every day, and also straightening, perming and colouring treatments.

·         You should oil your hair regularly with coconut or olive oil, use a mild shampoo with ammonium laureth sulphate, and include high-protein foods like eggs, sprouts and soya in your diet.

·         Use a soft and smoothing conditioner on a regular basis for the hair to absorb natural oils.

·         Using a repair serum after a shampoo and conditioning also aids in nourishing dry hair.

·         You can also opt for salon treatments like a deep conditioning treatment with an aloe vera mask.

·         You can go in for a hot oil therapy that helps to nourish dry follicles and stimulate production of sebum on the scalp.

·         Use a rich conditioning cream rinse to finish off.

·         Use this treatment once a fortnight.

4. HAIR FALL

Cause:

·         There is no one cause for a receding hairline.

·         It is normal to lose up to 75 to 100 hair strands on a daily basis as part of the hair growth cycle.

·         If losing more, it could be due to genetics, dandruff, seasonal change, overuse of styling products, nutritional deficiency, hormonal imbalance, iron deficiency and even prescribed medication in certain cases.

Cure:

·         If hair loss is not excessive, follow a shampoo and conditioning ritual, and watch what you eat.

·         Eat plenty of leafy greens, beans, tofu and lean meats, which are all great sources of iron, biotin and zinc, for hair growth.

·         Keep your hair guarded from the harsh rays of the sun by covering your head with a scarf.

·         Carry an umbrella in the monsoons to keep rain water off, as it damages hair strands.

·         For heavy hair loss, take an oral Vitamin B7 or Biotin (10 mg) daily for three months.

·         Opt for hair spas and hot oil massages once a month.

·         For thinning hair, massage the scalp to increase temporary circulation, which may pump hair follicles with nutrients needed for hair growth.