How to choose an organic shampoo

Organic shampoos and conditioners have their share of benefits as compared to the chemical-based shampoos. However, there are organic shampoos that might not suit your hair texture. Here are a few things that one should keep in mind before opting for natural shampoos...

Check if the shampoo is organic

Some shampoos might just claim that they are made out of natural ingredients. But five out of 10 ingredients will actually be chemical-based, that might harm your hair. It is advisable to research in advance than pick a shampoo without knowing its pros and cons.

Look out for these ingredients

When choosing an organic shampoo look out for ingredients like olive oil, cocount oil, organic tea tree, organic shea butter and aloe vera, among others. 

Consult the doctor before use

Don't buy organic shampoos just because the label says so. There are different varieties in organic shampoos for different hair textures like oily or dry hair. It is best to consult the doctor before use.

Shoo away summer hair problems

Colouring your locks or taking a cool dip in the pool may be a problem for your hair during summer. Know how to protect your precious locks.

Kiran Lohia, managing director, Lumiere Dermatology suggests the following tips:

Hair colour fading: 

The sun's strong rays can often cause your hair colour to change due to its temporary bleaching effects. Wear a hat to protect hair. If not that, you can wear products with sun protection on your tresses.

Green hair: 

Swimming is a great way to cool yourself, but the chlorine present in it can make your hair turn green. Look for chlorine-removing shampoos so that your hair can return to its natural colour! And, try to wear a swim cap to reduce the amount of chlorine your hair is exposed to.

Forehead breakouts because of bangs: 

Greasy bangs sticking to the face can block your skin's pores leading to breakouts. Try to keep your bangs or hair off your face so that your skin can breathe.

Make your own anti-dandruff shampoo

Have you tried every anti-dandruff shampoo in the market, but still haven't found one that works for you? Try making your own at home.

You'll need:

Baking powder: 2 tbsp

Warm water: 1 cup

Vinegar: 1 tbsp

Mint juice: 2 tbsp

Directions:

Put the baking powder and warm water in a clean bowl and mix well. Then add the vinegar and mix well. Make a juice of fresh mint leaves and add only the thick filtered part of the juice to the mixture. Finally, stir everything together well and keep aside for a while. Apply this solution to your hair twice a week.

Is washing your hair too often okay?

Experts talk about tackling greasiness and how often it is okay to wash your tresses

It's certainly hot and you're definitely sweating it out while commuting to work, at the gym or even at home. These increased levels of perspiration might make you feel like washing your hair every day. Experts tackle common questions that you may have about this predicament.

Is a daily hair wash okay?

It's not necessary to do so, feels city cosmetologist Dr Sama Rais. "Preferably not everyday as shampoos have harsh chemicals and can remove the essential oils from the scalp, causing an over-drying of the scalp. Thrice a week is good enough. Even if you perspire, just pour plain water on the hair. If your hair suffers from Hyperhidrosis (problem of excessive sweating), you may have to wash everyday. But use only a mild shampoo, which is suitable for to your hair," she says.

Overcoming dandruff issues

Dandruff and an itchy scalp is probably one of the biggest and most common offshoots of the sun playing havoc on hair. Says cosmetologist Dr Jaishree Manchanda, "There are two types of dandruff, oily and dry. Oily dandruff is dangerous as its eats away the pigment of your hair, while dry dandruff falls off. The former can give rise to numerous problems like pimples, pigmentation, etc, as dandruff on the scalp prevents blood circulation." She also advises staying away from using heavy oils. "If you have oily skin, just use a lighter oil, like olive oil, and massage it for 15 minutes, followed by a hot towel treatment, then wash it off. Home-based treatments include putting ginger juice on the scalp. Leave it overnight and wash it off. Also, wash hair every alternate day with a mild, anti-dandruff shampoo. Eating green vegetables like palak and methi helps the hair," she adds.

Using henna, a myth

Henna actually dries the hair and most stylists will tell you should not use it, saysa Dr Rais, adding, "Henna makes the hair more porous and can can turn hair brittle. Instead, use a good conditioner, which has a sunscreen or even a hair serum."

How to use hair serums

Hair serums improve the texture of the hair and untangle it, leaving it softer. They are perfect for that dry, frizz that summer bestows. Anyone can use it but there are rules to follow. "If you use too much, the hair can look oily, so, take only a few drops on the fingertips and apply on the hair, not scalp," says Dr Manchanda, adding, "Look for products that have argan oil as well as those with walnut and almond oil. Avoid those having silicon. After you have used a hair serum, don't use a spray after that."

Tips for healthy hair

•  Trim away damaged ends of the hair, especially if they are frizzy.
•  Wear a hat, scarf or peak cap (not too tight) to protect hair from damaging UV rays.
•  Use a hair sunscreen if you are going out between 11am and 4 pm as that is when the sun's rays are harshest.
•  Always use a little conditioner on the hair before you go swimming.

Thinking about a hair spa?

States naturopath Nirmala Shetty, "Go natural when it comes to a hair spa. Look for nutrients in what nature provides us. For instance, grind hibiscus into a paste and apply on hair. It darkens and strengthens hair roots. Methi (rich in iron and darkens hair) and neem (antibiotic and has germicidal properties) also increase hair strength. Aloe vera is a powerful antioxidant and can tackle scalp allergies and boils. It is also a great hair strengthener. Avocado is full of antioxidants and is especially good for those who have coloured hair."

How to take care of rebonded hair

Rebonding is a quick option for those who want absolutely straight hair but are not born with it. This is a process of altering the chemical structure of hair so it becomes straight for a considerable period of time. Rebonded hair will certainly not trouble you too much if it's taken care of in the right way.

"Ensure you apply trusted products during the treatment to minimize damage at the start. Use the right post-care products too, and use them properly. Any conditioner needs to be washed away completely as residue will cause itching, hairfall and dandruff," says Rod Anker, Creative Director of www.monsoonsalon.com and Vogue's Colorist of the Year.

If your hair is not too greasy, refrain from shampooing everyday. Try alternate days or co-washing - using conditioner as a shampoo and just rinsing it away. Keep your hair safe from environmental factors - harsh sun, cold winds and rains. Use a hat or umbrella. Hair serum creates a barrier between your hair and the outside and helps protect it better.

 

Pammy Kaul of Scratch Salons also advises, "Have your hair trimmed on a regular basis for preventing split ends." Use hair masks frequently or get hair spas done. Your hair needs moisture and nutrition regularly.