Hi everyone!! I’m sorry I haven’t been writing lately, my computer broke at the same time I started my fabulous new internship (which I won’t say anything about right now because it deserves more than just a mention).
So over time I found that I had only one plan to make my hair change for the better: change shampoos over time. But the thing is, there are some small habits that have proven to be more effective not only with the appearance right after blowing and styling it, but also over time.
So without further ado, here are my tips:
1. Save on the chemicals – less is more
Unless your hair suffers from real issues and a doctor has instructed you to use specific products, don’t fall on the trap of thinking more sulphur will make your hair more this or that. The hair is already perfect in its chemistry, and simpler formulas prove to be healthier over time.
Some heavier formulas make your hair beautiful on the first wash – but then you find yourself never getting that effect again. Roots might get oily over time and the shine wears off. My advice is: simpler formulas, natural shampoos, and less chemical treatment.
2. Use a hair mask at least once a week
Cutting on the daily chemical use doesn’t require you to give up that amazing shine you get after a deep treatment. But you can limit that to a mask about once or twice a week.
The mask will help improve and prolong time between hair cuts, shampoo changes, etc.I usually skip the conditioner when I use the mask and let it act for at least 5 minutes. Also worth noting, rinse it thoroughly to get the best result.
Here are some of my favorite ones:
- Kerastase has a great line of masks for any kind of hair. My favorite one has been the Masque Nutri Thermique Maskwhich does a great job for my hair that has color treatment. It also helps any styling and blow drying become flawless
- Joico Moisture Recovery Treatment Balm: its a great product if you have coarse/dry hair, which comes naturally with tinting and excess chemical use, harsh weather, etc. Also really good if you’re a fan of brazilian blowouts.
Try testing a few, think of your hair issues, not only how you want your hair to look; for example, if you want your hair to be straight its no use getting it dry. Instead, find a moisturizer that will make your straight hair look healthy, and beautiful no matter what you decide to do with it. Healthy is better than straight.
3. Change your blow drier settings from ‘hot’ to ‘warm’
Trust me on this, it’s the best advice. Granted, it takes a biiiit more time to dry it. But over time, the damage your hair takes is considerably lower. If you feel your tips dry, a month of this change can make all the difference. When you blow dry your hair at very high temperatures only the outer layer gets dry (super dry), but the deep tissue is still wet. So your hair breaks. If you take your time it will dry the right way.
4. Avoid hot water when rinsing
Hot water, just as hot blow drying, is a great enemy to your hair. Even your hair products work better at certain conditions. So try this out, adjust water to a warm or as-cold-as-possible/comfortable and see how different the effect of treatments can be.
5. Heat Protection – always
No matter how busy you are you always have 5 seconds to apply a heat protecting serum or product. There are approximately a gazillion of those at your neighborhood pharmacy, so don’t fret. Again, my tips on my favorite ones:
- John Frieda Frizz-Ease Thermal Protection Hair Serum – this product not only helps protect the hair and make it look glossy after styling it also helps prolongue the color
- Alterna Bamboo Smooth Kendi Dry Oil Mist – has the advantage of having its effects last till next wash. It smooths hair quite well and doesn’t make it oily
- TreSemme Thermal Creations Heat Taming Spray – the lightest product by far, which is a great plus for me since any excess makes my roots look like they’ve been treated with vegetable oil. Really great one.
Well dearies that’s all. Remember, it’s not all in the chemisty, there’s a lot of hair care that has to do with changing habits, going back to the basics. So don’t spend all your money on the latest promise – think long term too.
See you next time!!!!
Mavi
Maria Gilka Cunha
Mavi Cunha
