Your Everyday Shampoo

Ingredients:
¼ cup water
¼ cup soap
½ teaspoon oil and shampoo away

This first recipe is for a simple, no fuss shampoo. This shampoo will clean any hair type and is made with three ingredients: water, liquid castile soap, and sunflower oil (or another light vegetable oil). Once you have gathered these ingredients mix together ¼ cup water, ¼ cup soap, and ½ teaspoon oil and shampoo away. Yes, it’s the easy.

A Shampoo to Lighten and Brighten

Ingredients:
4 bags of Chamomile tea
4 tablespoons pure soap flakes
1 ½ tablespoons glycerin

This second recipe is for the summer blondes who want to keep their hair light and bright. First, boil the four tea bags in 1 1/2 cups of water for about 20 minutes. From here remove the tea bags and add in the soap flakes. Wait until the flakes become soft and add in the glycerin. Once the glycerin is added blend until mixed. Once completed place in a sealed container and store in a cool, dark area of your home until you are ready to shampoo.

Volumizing Shampoo

Ingredients:
¾ cup beer
1 cup inexpensive shampoo

For those of you who always have a few extra beers in your fridge this may be the DIY shampoo for you. This shampoo is great for adding volume to your locks. Boil ¾ cup of beer (any brand will do) and 1 cup of inexpensive generic shampoo on your stovetop. From here, cool the beer and add the shampoo to the pot, stirring until well mixed. Once this has cooled feel free to hop in the shower and shampoo!

Dry Shampoo

Ingredients:
½ cup cornstarch

This final recipe is for a DIY dry shampoo (which are often expensive to buy in store). It works especially well for those with oily hair and can be very convenient for elderly individuals. The best part about this recipe? It only contains one ingredient, cornstarch. By sprinkling a mere ½ cup of cornstarch in your hair you can get the same effect as using a brand name dry shampoo. After applying the cornstarch with a large make up brush let the hair absorb it and then brush it out. So next time you’re ready to go out but realize your hair is greasier than you would like, sprinkle in some cornstarch, brush it out, and be on your way!

One of the first natural remedies consists of using fenugreek seeds. Soaking fenugreek seeds in water for an entire night and then making a paste out of them in the morning is a great solution for dandruff. After making the paste, apply it generously to your scalp and keep it on for a half and hour, washing it off with water after.

Do you have some vinegar lying around your pantry? If so, you’re in luck as this can also help cure dandruff. Add roughly two tablespoons of vinegar and six tablespoons of hot water to your scalp. After you apply this liquid make sure to cover your head with a cloth and keep it on overnight. When doing this try and put a towel on your pillow when you sleep so you don’t stain your sheets. When you wake in the morning, rinse your hair clean with water. For optimal results repeat this twice weekly for up to three months.

A third option is to use curd. This actually is one of the more commonly used at-home solutions for dealing with dandruff. Use a small quantity of curd and allow it to ferment for about half a week. Apply the fermented curd to your scalp and keep it there for at least an hour. After an hour you can wash your scalp. This helps to remove the dandruff and hopefully keeps it from reappearing.

A fourth remedy is to use limejuice when showering. After shampooing your hair apply one teaspoon of fresh juice to your scalp and then rinse. By doing this you are helping limit the amount of dandruff on your scalp. In addition, limejuice also helps to make your hair shiny (just another perk!). If you don’t have fresh limejuice around your house, try using cider vinegar, as it is equally as effective.

Now some of these remedies you may have never heard of and don’t know where to buy. A simple solution to this is to call your local grocery store and ask them if they carry these items before you go to the store and aimlessly wander through the aisles. Another, possibly simpler option, is to order these items online. This way you can ensure that the product is exactly what you are looking for and is the correct quantity for what you need. Healthy hair can make or break an individuals confidence so don’t let dandruff make you feel down and take the proper steps to alleviate the issue.

Treatments for an oily scalp

There are various treatments for an oily scalp that help prevent against greasy hair. The treatments vary in technique and price but share one common thing, if used correctly they can help relieve the situation and boost your overall confidence.

The easiest fix that most women overlook is to first cater to your scalp rather than you hair. In the shower ensure that you apply shampoo to your scalp and massage gently. Often times people think that applying too much shampoo to their scalp will only add to the oil but this is not the case as not washing your scalp properly leads to oily hair worsening.

How can you tell if you washed your scalp properly? When your shampoo is not producing a lot of foam that is when you know that it is extracting a lot of oil. You’ll know when your scalp is clean because your shampoo with be very foamy. It is as this point that you should stop shampooing and rinse thoroughly. Sometimes you may need to wash your scalp twice, or possibly even three times.

Consider your shampoo choices

If you struggle with oily hair it is best to pick a shampoo that focuses on that issue. These types of shampoos have less conditioner and more cleaning agents so that oil is not more rapidly produced. Also, try not to use too much conditioner (perhaps try using a 2-in-1 for oily hair) as this can add additional oil to your already oily scalp.

Lastly, remember not to overly brush or apply too much product to your hair. This will only make amplify your scalp oils at it moves the oil in your scalp throughout your hair, spreading it. Your hair is seen daily by the world, make sure you take care of it so that you can be proud and confident.

Stress and anxiety

Stress and anxiety can often cause hair loss. If you are experiencing a higher stress level than normal, or going through a large life change (such as the loss of a loved one, changing career paths, or moving) you may very well experience a heightened anxiety level. If this happens and you notice elevated hair loss you should take the needed steps to lower your stress level. Take the needed time daily to relax, get the proper amount of sleep, and if needed find a therapist or unbiased third party who you can share your thoughts and feelings about your current situation with. Keep in mind these are not the only options for treating a high stress lifestyle, but they are some of the more popular options.

Vitamin deficiency

Often times the reason why hair loss can become a major issue is when one is experiencing a vitamin deficiency. A good way to figure out what vitamin you are deficient of is to get a simple blood test by your doctor. This will help pinpoint exactly where your issue is. For those with zinc deficiencies you can either take an iron supplement (ask your doctor if this is the right choice for you) or simply add more iron-rich foods to your diet. This includes foods such as liver, beans, spinach, oysters, and lentils. Often times, when one becomes a vegetarian or goes on a crash diet protein is one of the main things they cut out.  If this the issue you are facing try adding more soy to your diet (this will heighten your protein intake). You can also try adding more low-fat cheeses, beans, fish, and yogurt to your diet as well. If you’re silica deficient a sign may be that you are more sensitive to cold than the average person. Try eating red and green peppers, bean sprouts, cereals/grains containing high fiber, and fish. If you’re zinc deficient (which causes your hair shafts to weaken, causing breakage) try taking one of the many supplements found in most grocery stores. However, make note not to take too many as it has been discovered that having too much zinc in your body can equally contribute to hair loss.

Hormonal issues

Some other triggers of hair loss can be hormonal issues, infections, and the intake of various medications (for example: too much Vitamin A, antidepressants, and birth control pills). Though these aren’t as commonly the cause they are sometimes at fault and thus, should be looked at if you are experiencing more than usual hair loss. You should always try and live the healthiest lifestyle possible. However, if you notice you are losing more hair than ever before take a look at what exactly is going on physically and emotionally in your life. Examine your diet and be proactive in your efforts to resolve the issue.

Throughout a given hair cycle each strand goes through three phases, the length of which depends on ones health, hormones, diet, age, and overall lifestyle. Obviously, over the roughly seven year span a given individuals hair is exposed to various damaging factors such as sun exposure, use of various hair products that contain chemicals, and just the general up-keeping such as brushing. However, though these outside factors may affect your hair it will never affect the strand’s follicle. This is one of the many reasons why it is so important to get frequent haircuts to ensure that damaged hair is removed so that the healthy hair follicle can continue to grow and make your hair look and feel healthier.

The anagen phase

The first phase of this process is called the anagen phase. It’s in this phase (which can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years depending on the individual) that your hair repairs itself and goes through regrowth. During this time your hair grows roughly 1 cm every month. Throughout this time your hair continuously grows and your hair bulb produces pigment that helps create your hair color. During this phase your hair will feel and look thicker and healthier overall. At the completion of this phase your hair growth ceases and the second phase of your hair cycle begins.

The catagen phase

The second phase of the hair cycle, known as the catagen phase, lasts for only a short 2 to 4 weeks. This is much shorter than the anagen phase but is equally important in your hair growth. It is during this phase that your follicle minimizes and melanocytes become present in your hair bulb. This causes cellular death and stops creating the substance (melanin) that helps create your hair color.

The telogen phase

After this short phase the final phase in one’s hair cycle, the telogen phase, begins. This is the stage in your cycle where your hair rests. It lasts roughly three months and it is after this time that your hair starts to naturally fall out. Ever wonder why you lose hair when you brush it or shower? Most likely, it’s because those strands are at the end of this stage. When your hair starts falling out naturally you know that you have reached what is known as the exogen phase within the telogen phase. About 50 to 150 strands of hair tend to fall out every day during this phase. Now don’t worry this doesn’t happen to your entire head of hair at once. Only about 10-15% of your hair goes through this phase at a time.

Now that you’ve read this you realize that your hair is much more complex than you previously thought. Your hair requires special care in order to keep it healthy and looking good. The better you understand your hair and how it works, the easier the up-keep. Before you start getting nervous about your hair changing texture or falling out more than normal remember this cycle and think about what phase you may be going through.

Hair brush

The type of brush often recommended to improve the general health of your hair and in more serious cases, hair loss, is one that has been around for centuries. Any brush made of natural bristles (you can even use some that include a mix of natural and nylon bristles) will do the trick. Using an expensive boar-bristle brush is often thought to be the best out there but using more expensive versions of this brush can work just as well. For example, using a brush with natural bristles is proven strengthen you hair by massaging your scalp and reaching the tip of each hair follicle, This type of brush also helps to equally distribute the oils in your hair, allowing each strand to stay healthy for as long as possible. It’s also important to get a brush that has little balls on the tip of each bristle. These balls allow for the hair to be massaged and minimize any breakage caused by brushing.

If you have fragile hair ensure that your brush has a “cushion.” You might not think of it as this but make sure to check what the bristles on your brush are connected to. You want to make sure that this base of sorts is soft and absorbs any pressure you may put on it during brushing. This helps to not pull hair out unlike brushes that consist of plastic and hard rubber platforms.

Brushing hair after shower

Do you often brush your hair when you get out of the shower? If so, it’s about time to quit this habit. It’s best to deep condition your hair and then use a detangler once your shower is over to get out any knots. After that, comb you hair with your fingers and towel dry. When the hair is damp and for the most part untangled and conditioned, it is then best to use a wide-tooth comb.

As always, use as little heat as possible on your hair. The more often, and the longer you apply heat to your hair (i.e. using a blow-dryer on hot, a straighten, or curling iron, etc.) the more damage you contribute.

Each person’s hair is different and has different needs. The best way to find out what brush is best for you is to do your research. Go to the store, feel the different brush options and read about them. Ask your friends, talk to your stylist, and check out what people are saying online about what is best for each hair type. Hair loss is unpleasant and taking some of these simple steps can ensure that you keep thinning and loss at a minimal.

Salon product vs. average grocery store shampoo

However, it’s important to note that when you’re deciding between a salon product and your average grocery store shampoo that most of the companies, who make one, make the other as well. Be smart about what shampoo or hair product you purchase.

Though most companies make both salon and generic products some generic brands are made with extremely low quality ingredients. How can you tell? More times than not, the price will reflect this. If a product is only a few dollars it is most likely made with inexpensive, detergent-like products that will destroy healthy hair at a rapid speed. If you’re going to go for that grocery-shelf brand get one that seems well priced. For example, a generic shampoo ranging anywhere from $7.00 and up is most likely going to be made with higher quality ingredients than the one next to it for $1.99.

Another good way to get higher quality shampoo for a relatively low price is to keep an eye out for sales and coupons. Some of the best generic brands (and even sometimes salon brands) often go on sale for very reasonable prices. It’s at these times that that you should stock up.

A higher end shampoo = higher quality ingredients

Ultimately, it’s up to you as the consumer to decide what kind of product you want to use on your hair. A higher end shampoo or product is most likely made with higher quality ingredients and will keep your hair looking and feeling healthier. However, some generic, grocery-shelf shampoos are made with almost the same quality ingredients. How will you know? Do your research. Investigate what you think you might want to buy, read reviews, and look at the ingredients closely. Use common sense, if it seems too good of a price, it probably is. If you shop smart chances are you’ll be able to find a relatively inexpensive product with that salon quality you’re looking for.

Most people don’t realize that various steps can be taken prior to even getting your hair wet with pool water to ensure that it stays healthy. Drinking a lot of water daily helps to prevent hair from drying as it lubricates any damaged hair you may have (this should be practiced daily, even if you aren’t planning on stepping near a pool anytime soon). Having a healthy diet, and taking the proper vitamins also ensures that your hair is as strong as possible. With that, adding Essential Fatty Acid supplements can help to keep your hair strong and healthy. Also, try not to let you hair face too much sun exposure. Not only can this fade your color but also having too much UV-radiation from the sun can dry out your hair and make it brittle. Taking these steps before entering the pool allows for minimal damage because it builds up your hair’s strength and allows for it to handle more than it would be able to otherwise.

Once you choose to take that first plunge it’s important to take some steps to reverse any damage you do once your hair is physically in the pool water. Your hair absorbs things so before taking that first dive into your pool try to wet your hair with non-chlorinated water. This way, your hair is already wet and less chlorine will be able to be absorbed into each strand. Once leaving your pool try to rinse your hair with non-chlorinated water as well. If you’re at a community pool try to find the nearest outdoor shower, and if you’re at home use your garden hose to do a quick rinse. This is important because the longer chlorine is in your hair the more damage is done which can affect not only the overall health of your hair but it can make your color fade as well.

Anytime your hair touches chlorine it builds up an oil in your hair that can block follicles from getting the protein they need, causing your hair to become damaged. In order to prevent this purchase a shampoo that contains Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA). This helps to get the unwanted oil caused by chlorine out of your hair and ensures your hair suffers the minimal amount of damage post swimming. If you don’t want to buy a fancy shampoo and simply want a quick home remedy to help get the chlorine out try using baking soda. Adding ¼ cup of baking soda to your normal shampoo weekly can help remove chemicals from and keep your hair color from developing that odd green tint we all hate. Adding baking soda into your conditioner and applying it to your ends can also help prevent breakage. Also, remember to deep condition your hair regularly (you can get this done at your salon or buy treatments at the grocery store) to help add protein and overall strength to your hair.

No one likes having brittle, chlorine damaged hair. Therefore, following these few simple steps can ensure that your hair receives the least amount of damage possible when swimming. Swimming is a key part in a hot summer so this summer don’t let worrying about hair damage stop you from taking that plunge with your friends and loved ones.

What you need:
- Large handful of watercress
- 1 cup water
- blender or food processor
- pot and stovetop (or some way to boil the mixture)

What to do:
1. Blend watercress and water until well- blended. Those with longer hair may want to use two handfuls of watercress.
2. Transfer mixture to a small pot, and heat until boiling. Boil for 10 minutes.
3. Strain all solid matter from the mixture, keeping only the liquid portion.
4. Allow the liquid to cool completely before application.
5. Shampoo your hair, and rinse with clean water. Squeeze as much water out of your hair as possible.
6. Apply watercress liquid to hair, allowing it to set for 20 minutes. Applying the liquid while still in the shower makes the process (and all the drippy-ness) easier to manage.
7. After 20 minutes, rinse with cold water. Towel blot dry, and allow to air dry. Use a non-oily detangler if needed.

Mineral sources for strengthening hair

Iron: found in beef, broad beans, sesame seeds
Zinc: beef, cheese, giblets, wheat sprouts, yeast, eggs, and milk.
Sulfur: peas, onion, cheese, and cuckoo-flower.
Silicon: porridge and pearl barley.
Copper: giblets, peas, and beans.

Vitamins for preventing dandruff, hair loss, etc.

If you prefer to take vitamin supplements, pro- vitamin B5 and others from the group of vitamin B are good for your hair. Of course, consult your doctor before taking supplements to make sure they are ok for your overall health. If you would rather get your vitamins from food, see the list below for intake comparison to daily 100 gram requirements.

Vitamin B1: chicken breast, pork chops, sunflower seeds (double the portion because one service provides 1/2 of daily amount of B1)

Vitamin B2: broccoli will provide 1/2 of daily amount of B2; milk, yogurt and pork provide 1/4 of daily amount of B2.

Vitamin B6: sardines, bananas, liver (1/2 of daily amount of B6).

Vitamin B5: mushrooms (2/3 of daily dose); mung Chinese beans (1/2) and broccoli (1/4).

Vitamin B12: chicken liver and beef. This vitamin is essential for helping hair be strong and healthy, thus preventing hair loss.