How To Improve The Look Of Your Hair

Hair can be a reflection of your identity and style. It’s an accessory that follows you wherever you go — through the good days and the bad. And it plays a significant role in how you perceive yourself and how others perceive you. Whether you’re aiming to achieve shine, strengthen strands, or revamp your look, your hair plays a significant role when it comes to self-confidence.

Your next great hair day doesn’t have to be out of reach either. With a combination of good hair care practices and a healthy lifestyle, you can achieve healthier, more beautiful hair. Discover the feelings of confidence and radiance that comes with loving your hair with these six steps.

Consider Hair Treatments

If you’re displeased with the appearance of your hair, there are several options you can consider to support healthy growth and treat any underlying issues.

Hair Transplants

Medical procedures, like hair transplants, can help people who have thinning hair or bald patches regain a fuller head of hair. These procedures work by taking existing hair follicles and moving them to the problem areas of your hair. Hair transplant procedures also restore regrowth, so you can make your hair goals come to life with your own natural hair.

Medications

There are two common, FDA-approved medications that slow down hair thinning: minoxidil and finasteride. Minoxidil is a topical solution that works by increasing blood flow to your hair follicles. This delivers more nutrients to your strands, extends the growth phase of your hair’s life cycle, and promotes growth. If topical medications don’t fit into your hair care routine, you can opt for finasteride in pill form. This is a daily pill that blocks dihydrotestosterone (DHT) hormones, which makes hair follicles shrink and hair thin.

Practice Regular Hair Maintenance

Regular hair maintenance, coupled with a good hair care routine can go a long way in maintaining the health and appearance of your hair. When you keep up with your hair maintenance, you can prevent damage caused by split ends. If split ends are left to grow, they can spread to your hair shaft, which can damage the entire strand.

A simple trim every 6-8 weeks can promote better hair health, and it can enhance the overall appearance of your hair. While it may seem counterintuitive, when you keep split ends trimmed you can actually achieve longer hair. Removing these damaged portions of your hair also makes your hair look healthier, which is a great confidence booster.

Keep Your Hair Protected

The sun and other environmental pollutants are no joke. These elements not only affect your skin, but they can negatively impact the look and health of your hair. If you go outdoors without protecting your hair, you’re putting your hair at risk for damage, breakage, and fading.

Before you head outdoors, use a form of protection. Wear a baseball cap, cover up with a scarf, or treat your hair with products formulated with SPF. After prolonged exposure to these pollutants, thoroughly cleanse your hair. Use a clarifying shampoo to remove buildup caused by pollution and hair products.

Eat Healthy

Your hair is primarily made up of the protein keratin, and it requires various nutrients to grow and maintain its strength and shine. As you’re planning your next meal, ensure that you’re consuming a balance of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Foods that are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, specifically, can help maintain a healthy scalp, strengthen your hair, and promote growth. These nutrients are most commonly found in fatty fish like salmon, as well as plant-based sources like chia seeds and walnuts.

You should also ensure you’re consuming enough water each day. Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your hair’s moisture and preventing dryness, which can lead to breakage and frizz. If you struggle to drink enough water each day, make sure to carry around a water bottle so it’s always on hand. If you struggle with the taste of water — or lack thereof — add fruits like lemon or watermelon to enhance the flavor.

Use Natural Oils

Massaging natural oils in your hair can provide nourishment, moisture, and shine. Many natural oils like coconut, olive, and argan, have emollient properties that can seal in moisture while preventing dryness. These oils can also act as a barrier from environmental stressors, like the sun and pollution, which helps prevent further damage to your hair.

While you’re adding oils to your hair, be sure to massage them into your scalp. This can improve blood circulation and promote a healthy scalp. If you’re looking to achieve a subtle glow with these oils, massage them into your hair sparingly. Too much can appear greasy.

Adjust Your Shower Temperature

Hot showers may be comforting, but they’re often damaging to your skin and hair. Hot showers can strip your hair of its natural oils and lead to dryness and breakage. As you prepare for your next shower, turn the temperature down. Find a comfortable warmth that isn’t a scalding hot temperature. Opting for a lukewarm shower can protect your hair and scalp from damage and irritation.

Before you complete your shower routine, rinse off with a stream of cold water. A cold water rinse can help seal your hair’s cuticles, which can help boost smoothness and shine.

Achieving and maintaining healthy, beautiful hair is an ongoing process. Every person’s hair is unique and requires different treatment based on hair type. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and routines to find what works for you.