- Dull hair is common during the winter.
- Natural ingredients that contain amino acids can help by sealing in moisture in hair follicles.
- When choosing hair products, look for ingredients that can attract water from the air.
The lack of moisture in the air during winter, along with the physical wear and tear of the hair, can cause it to become dry, brittle, and dull.
Below are the best ingredients to bring life back to your hair.
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a hydrating ingredient packed with vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that moisturizes hair to make it shiny. Board-certified dermatologist Cynthia Bailey, M.D., an American Board of Dermatology diplomate, says studies have focused on the benefits of aloe vera to the skin, but the ingredient can also benefit the hair because of its keratin content.
Aloe contains seven amino acids that can help repair damaged hair from coloring or overdrying, says Gary Goldenberg, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai New York’s Icahn School of Medicine.
2. Apple cider vinegar
Hairstylist Josh Rosebrook says hair damage can cause its cuticles to raise, chip, become fragile, easily tangled, and lose moisture, shine, and luster. So, to keep the hair silky and frizz-free, it’s crucial to seal down the cuticles.
Apple cider vinegar reduces the pH balance of the hair, sealing its cuticles for a glossy strand.
3. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is loved for its ability to attract and hold in moisture. It can deliver much-needed water to your thirsty hair fibers.
4. Potato flour
Potatoes contain vitamins and minerals, like vitamin B, C, and iron, which can strengthen hair strands. It’s a traditional Ayurvedic ingredient used to support healthy hair growth.
Celebrity hairstylist and Beachwaver tool creator Sarah Potempa recommends this potato flour shampoo recipe:
- Warm a mixture of ¼ cup of potato flour and 2 cups of water in a saucepan on low heat.
- After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and add 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar.
- Cool and pour into a container.
- When shampooing, apply the mixture on your scalp and the lengths of your hair.
5. Yogurt
Plain yogurt is an excellent hair mask, especially for curls. The lactic acid in yogurt attracts water to help the hair retain moisture. Before shampooing, apply plain yogurt all over your hair, and leave it on for at least 20 minutes.
6. Avocado oil
Muhga Eltigani, the founder of NaturAll Club, says avocado oil is packed with oleic acid and monounsaturated fats that can penetrate the hair shaft to keep it moisturized and strong. Avocado oil also contains antioxidants, like vitamins A, D, and E.
7. Argan oil
Argan oil, commonly referred to as “liquid gold,” is high in triglycerides or essential fatty acids. Bindiya Gandhi, M.D, says these fatty acids seals in moisture in hair follicles.
You can find argan oil in several nourishing hair oils, or use 100% pure argan oil as a conditioning treatment or hair mask.
8. Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can also attract water from the air to help the hair and scalp maintain moisture. You can find it in several hair care products, and you can also use it on its own as a hair mask.
9. Eggs
Eggs are packed with amino acids that moisturize the strands, and protein that support hair structure. Egg yolks are also high in lecithin, a lipid with emollient properties that are commonly found in commercial conditioners.
To make your egg hair mask at home, whisk up an egg or two depending on your hair length, and slather on your hair until it is covered. Let it sit 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water and shampooing. Do it once a month.
The takeaway
Dull hair is a common problem during winter, but these ingredients can make your hair regain its shine. Look for them when buying hair products, or use them when making a DIY hair mask.
Via Mind Body Green