beauty make up

Some tips on hair care

June 25, 2011 at 8:10 am (Hair Care & Salon) (hair)

Brush Less to Limit Hair Loss

Don’t believe that myth about 100 brush strokes a day. Too much brushing will snap off hairs. Some hair loss is normal – most people lose an average of 50 to 100 hairs every day. These are hairs that have stopped growing and have reached the resting stage. To minimize additional hair loss, use a brush with ball-tipped bristles and avoid brushing while the hair is wet.

Avoid Styles that Damage Hair

Tight ponytails and braids can break off hair and damage the hair follicle. Continuous pulling can even lead to hair loss. Extensions add weight to the hair and also put pressure on the follicle. Dermatologists recommend wearing extensions for no more than three months. Also, be aware that wet hair is more fragile, so you shouldn’t put your hair in braids or a ponytail while it’s wet.

Don’t Let Brands Clean Your Wallet

What are you really getting for extra money spent on specialty products? They may contain natural botanicals, but that may not mean better style. Consumer Reports tested products on 1,700 ponytail samples and found that the more expensive shampoos didn’t perform better than cheaper ones. What is important: Choose shampoos and conditioners designed for your hair type, such as those for oily, fine, or color-treated hair.

Use Gentle Color to Cover Grays

Hair doesn’t only go gray as we get older – it also becomes weaker and grows more slowly. That means damaged hair won’t be snipped off as quickly by haircuts. Chemicals used on “mature” hair should be weaker to avoid damage, says dermatologist Zoe Draelos.

Neutralize Frizz in Winter, Too

Humidity gets the rap for causing frizzy bad hair days. But there’s more static electricity in low humidity. This means frizz also flies in winter months and in the desert climates of the Southwest. Use conditioner to neutralize the static electricity. Shampoos that are pH-balanced also can calm the frizz of chemically treated hair.

Keep Brushes Away from Your Curls

Curly hair is more likely to break and become dry and brittle. Gently using a pick keeps curls looking better than combing or brushing. Conditioners with polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone can smooth hair and make it more manageable. Don’t overdo the use of flat-irons and relaxers, which can damage hair.

Avoid Extreme Color Changes

Perhaps you’re a brunette who always wanted to be a blonde, or a blonde who wants to go darker. Be aware that you’re risking damage to your hair with more extreme color changes. Some dermatologists recommend staying within three shades of your natural color.