10 Things You Are Doing Wrong When You Blowdry Your Hair

Don’t let these bad habits ruin your do.

l you need is a few strokes to style hair and spread the natural oils from roots to ends. "Anything more than that is unnecessary friction

Nothing beats walking out of the salon with a fresh blowout — it's almost a guarantee for a great day or night ahead. But why is it so hard to create such a look at home? It's not that it is impossible to get a salon-worthy style on your own, you just have to know the right tricks. We chatted with hairstylist Frank Rizzieri about some common blowdrying bad habits that might be making your locks look less than perfect.

1. Not getting rid of excess moisture
After you wash your hair, you want to make sure to towel dry it has much as you possibly can. Getting the excess moisture out of your hair will help you get the maximum effect out of the products you are using and make sure they go through your entire head of hair.

2. Using too much product
More is not always better — if you are using quality products, a little can go a long way. If you are overdoing it, your hair can get weighed down and greasy. If you rub the product in your hands first, it will ensure you use less than if you just put it straight in your hair from your hand in a glob.

3. Choosing a brush
If you have long or curly hair, a brush might not get through all the tangles causing you to pull and yank and possibly causing damage. When your hair is still wet, you should first go through it with a comb — leaving the brush for in-between maintenance.

4. Not dividing
You should never blow dry all your hair at once. Depending on its density, always divide your head into two or three sections. Make a part from the corner of your brow across the crown of your head in a semi circle. If you need another section go from ear to ear below it.

5. Making sections that are too big
The smaller the section the more you can blow out and straighten your hair; the bigger the section the less control you have.

6. Not combining the sections
After you finish drying each section, combine it with the still damp section above it and blow dry them together. When you blend the hair together it creates a much more fluid and natural shape.

7. Applying products all at once
You should not apply your products to the whole head of hair, but to each section as you blow dry it.

8. Not spraying top and bottom
Be sure to spray your product on the top of the section, then flip it over and spray the bottom so it gets evenly spread out.

9. Not starting at the right place
First blow dry the bottom sections, then when you reach the top section start from the flat part of the crown of your head and work your way up to your hair line.

10. Not using a nozzle
Always have a nozzle or a diffuser on your blowdryer. It allows you to control the direction you want your hair to go in, and prevents any burning or damaging.

5 Ways to Fight Frizzy Hair

Keep tresses smooth in even the steamiest weather.

1. Wash in sleekness

Start in the shower with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. "They contain ingredients, like dimethicone, that smooth each strand's outer layer — the secret to shiny, frizz-free hair," says Hannah Williams, a stylist with Blow Salons. If your hair is fine, apply conditioner only from the mid-shafts to the ends, to prevent flat locks. Steer clear of volumizing formulas, which make hair swell and can exacerbate frizz.

2. Style with serum

The styling ingredient silicone can tame even the unruliest tresses. "Thick or coarse hair needs a lot; you'll find it in a serum," explains Heather Warnke, director of global haircare innovation for John Frieda. If you have thin locks, opt for a cream or lotion, which has less of the frizz fighter. Apply your choice to soaking-wet hair: "If it's dry or even damp, the product can leave a greasy feeling," says Warnke.

3. Forget air-drying

"When you let hair air-dry, it absorbs humidity, which is the culprit behind frizz," says Williams. "The faster your hair goes from wet to dry, the quicker you lay down the cuticle and the less likely it is to frizz out." If you can't dry right after showering, rewet hair when you're ready to blow-dry it. Then make sure hair is 100% dry: Any residual moisture will cause frizzies later. (A final shot of cool air will help further seal the cuticle.)

4. Check your brush

Parched or fried hair is especially frizz-prone. But your scalp's own oils can keep strands supple, with the help of a boar-bristle brush (good for everyday brushing and blow-drying). "These natural oils attach to the bristles, and the brush distributes them down the length of your locks, coating and protecting them," says Eva Scrivo, author of Eva Scrivo on Beauty.

5. Try an updo

If you'll be outdoors en route to your destination, shield your tresses from humidity by putting them up till you arrive. "Only the top layer will be exposed, while all the hair underneath will stay sleek," says Williams. And skip elastics, which can create creases. Take your hair down upon arrival, and run your palms over any stray frizzies; the natural oils on your skin will help smooth them.

10 winter hair care tips

Keep the gloss this winter

Winter can take its toll on your hair - cold winds, pouring rain, icy snaps, central heating all take their toll on your locks. So it's worth starting a change-of-seasons care regime to keep your hair in the best shape possible.

Follow this advice from hairstylist to the stars and creative director at the Daniel Galvin salon in central London, Asgar, to keep your tresses looking glossy, moisturised and full of life - whatever the weather.

1. The winter months can dull hair, so invest in a good quality shampoo and conditioner to get a healthy shine. Wash and condition your hair, then blast it with a cold water rinse to help seal in the conditioner to add shine and make your hair easier to style.

2. Your winter hair may already be in damage deficit from exposure to the sun and sea during the summer months, so needs to be nourished from within. Choose an intensive moisturising shampoo and conditioner: look for products with the word ‘replenish’ on them.

3. Add a hair treatment mask once a week to your hair care routine.

4. Moisturise your hair once a week with a hot oil treatment to promote a healthy scalp and nourished hair. Some natural oils that work particularly well include coconut oil and almond oil.

5. Give your hair a new lease of life in the autumn/winter months with a cut to get rid of split ends. Aim to get your split ends trimmed every six to eight weeks as this will promote healthy hair.

6. As the weather becomes colder and the air drier, it takes its toll on your hair and can cause it to become brittle and dry and to break. Indoor heating can also damage hair. Wear a scarf or hat when outside, and add humidity to the air in your home or office - your hair and skin will benefit.

7. To avoid frizzy, static-prone hair in the winter months, keep your hair tied up as much as possible, particularly when out and about, and especially when exercising.

8. If you use heat styling tools, like curling tongs or hair straighteners, then you must always use a good quality, nourishing heat defence spray or leave-in conditioner to protect your hair and keep it looking glossy and hydrated. This is especially important during winter, when cold wind, rain and the added heat from styling tools all contribute to hair damage.

9. Try not to leave the house with wet hair: the cold weather can cause your hair to freeze at the cuticle and cause it to break.

10. Lastly, why not rejuvenate yourself and go for a new look this winter by dyeing your hair a dark, warm colour? On-trend colours right now include mahogany, plum and chocolate brown.

Hair Care Solutions That Won't Cost You a Penny

From finding the right shampoo to eating the right foods, there is so much that goes into taking care of your hair. Here's how you can get the hair of your dreams every day without breaking the bank or your schedule.

Shampoo

Find the right shampoo for your hair type, scalp type and washing frequency, and use only lukewarm or cool water. Fortnightly or monthly, use a clarifying shampoo to deep-cleanse your hair of product build-up.

Mumbai-based hairstylist Nisheeta Bavadekar says, “When wet, hair stretches by over one-third of its length and requires extremely gentle treatment. Avoid rough, vigorous shampooing and sleeping/leaving home with wet or dripping hair.” Sweat, friction and windy days can damage the hair shaft terribly.

Condition

After every shampoo, condition mid-lengths and ends, and very delicately, untangle knots with a wide-toothed comb before rinsing. Always use a towel to blot dry (never rub) excess moisture. Then, quickly blast-dry with a blow-dryer on a cool setting.

Nisheeta says, “Conditioning helps untangle hair when it is most vulnerable to breakage. When drying, always towel it till it’s 70 to 80 per cent dry, before using a hair dryer.” Don’t forget that a hair dryer is used to give shape and set hair. So use sparingly to avoid damage.  

Maintain

Even if you’re growing your hair, you need to trim it once in three months for healthy new growth. For very dry hair, seek professional help. Avoid tying it too tightly or in the same place, to prevent thinning or traction alopecia. Change your parting regularly.

Nisheeta says, “The hair up to two inches from your scalp gets nourished from your diet. The rest of your hair needs continuous external nourishment via serums, conditioning masks and salon treatments. Regular trimming is a must, as split-ends travel upwards towards the scalp and must be cut off.”

Healthy lifestyle

Healthy hair comes from within; aim for a balanced diet rich in protein, nuts and greens as well as plenty of water. Hormonal imbalances, new medications, lifestyle changes and deficiencies play havoc with its health.

Nisheeta says, “Hair loss is usually internal. Hair products do not penetrate the shaft, and therefore cannot cause worrisome hair loss. We spend so much time indoors that we don’t get enough sunlight and thus develop vitamin D deficiencies. Proper diet and a little care go a long way towards body, mind and hair health.” 

Protect

You live in artificial AC temperatures and tropical outdoors that dry your hair out. Use leave-in conditioners, serums and heat protectant sprays to coat hair with protective layers. Extreme sun exposure, straightening, extensive blow-drying and constant hair processing for colour or change in texture can damage it irreversibly. So, it is important to protect your hair from harm as much as possible.

7 Home Remedies to Control Hair Loss

Owe it to our flawed genetics or hectic lifestyles and the falling standards of nutrition in our diets hair loss seems to have turned into a healthcare plague.

Use the following home remedies for controlling hair loss:

1. Regular Massaging with Basic Oils

Regular massaging of the scalp with lukewarm oil helps to stimulate the hair follicles. This is also an easy way to cure hair growth deterrents like dandruff and fungal infections. Regular massaging increases the blood circulation in the scalp. It is also useful for lowering anxiety or stress that is often the underlying reason for thinning of hair. Recommended oils for 3 to 4 times-a-week massaging schedule includes coconut oil. You can alternate this with mustard oil. Keep the oil on for at least six hours before washing it off with a mild shampoo. Other oils that can be mixed with coconut oil in trace amounts for faster results include almond oil.

2. Natural Concoctions for Preventing Hair Loss

Coconut milk is among the richest sources of tissue-nourishing, plant derivatives. It is an excellent home remedy for keeping the hair soft without depending upon chemical formulations and regenerating dead hair follicles. You can also use a concoction of coconut oil mixed with half the amount of Amla oil. Just add a dash of lemon juice to this mixture and you have an effective, dandruff-fighting and scalp-healing concoction that arrests receding hairline.

3. Nature’s Effective Hair-stimulating Juices

Wheatgrass juice is one of the most effective remedies against hair fall. It is known to decrease the shedding tendency of hair within a few weeks of regular intake. Aloe vera juice has a similar effect. However, aloe gel can be applied to the scalp too. This is helpful for preventing hair loss due to irritated, dry or infected scalp. After massaging the head with aloe gel, wash the hair with lukewarm water. This can be done twice, every week.

4. Slightly Demanding But Very Effective Natural Therapies

You can make your own hair fall-preventing medicine at home by frying some fenugreek (methi) seeds in coconut oil. Strain this mixture and apply it in minimal amounts, rubbed gently into the hair roots. Alternatively, you can boil some henna leaves in mustard oil. After cooling and straining this preparation, add drops of it in your coconut oil container that you are using for regular massaging.

5. Homemade Pastes

You can wash the hair with a paste made from Neem leaves. This is particularly effective for hair loss caused due excessive build up of scalp oil or invasive skin infections. For restoring the alkaline balance of the scalp and preventing hair fall, you can follow this with washing the hair with apple cider vinegar. Other homemade pastes that can be very useful include a mixture prepared from adding honey and olive oil to some cinnamon (dalchini) powder.

6. Arrest Hair Fall With Elementary Household Items

Before washing your hair, apply the juice extracted from crushed coriander (dhania) leaves. You can also use a mixture of curd and gram flour (chana atta) that should be kept-on for at least an hour before bathing.

7. Hair Fall Dietary Recommendations

For a comprehensive, hair fall prevention regimen, you need to be equipped with a diet plan that includes foods that can arrest hair fall and stimulate better scalp health. Recommendations here include eating more seeds and nuts (almonds and peanuts) along with green leafy vegetables like spinach and sprouts of a variety of dals (legumes). Basically, foods rich in calcium, protein and iron are vital for ensuring overall health of the scalp. Combine this with some basic dietary supplementation, i.e. using over-the-counter products that help to ensure wholesome nutrition for your hair. Regular intake of Amla juice ensures adequate amounts of Vitamin C but you can boost this with eating more guavas. Ensure you take a multivitamin that combines beta-carotenes, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin E and trace amounts of zinc and iron.

4 Common Hair Care Questions Untangled

With all the hair care products available, consumers can easily become entangled in their choices. Some products promise to be gentler on hair, while others offer thickening or smoothing solutions, but not all of these claims are scientifically based.

Despite their uplifting promises, some products can be just a waste of money, and some can actually damage the hair, said Dr. Nicole Rogers, an assistant professor of dermatology at Tulane University in New Orleans.

Here are some tips to help you decide which hair care products to buy, as well as the lowdown on the science of some commonly touted ingredients. [ 7 Beauty Trends that Are Bad for Your Health]

Are sulfate-free shampoos really better?

Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate are two of the most common shampoo ingredients. These chemicals are what make shampoos turn into a thick lather in the shower, which removes dirt and debris from hair.

Recently, sulfates have come under attack for being harsh on the hair by removing natural oils, causing frizziness and damage to dyed hair. Now, many products bear a "sulfate-free" label, and these are often more expensive than their counterparts.

However, Rogers said there is no scientific evidence that sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair than shampoos that contain sulfate.

Similarly, no scientific data supports marketing claims that some sulfate-free shampoos extend the life of hair color or keratin treatments, Rogers said.

It is possible that some people, particularly those with the skin condition eczema, are sensitive to sulfates. There have been a few reports linking sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate to contact dermatitis in some people. For these people, sulfate-free shampoos can be beneficial, Rogers said.

Are keratin treatments safe?

Keratin treatments are touted for their ability to smooth and straighten hair, turning the tightest curls into silky threads, with an effect lasting up to five months.

However, in addition to keratin, these products contain the dangerous chemical formaldehyde, often exceeding the concentrations permitted in Canada and European countries. Keratin treatment products have also been cited numerous times by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for using higher levels of formaldehyde than are allowed in the United States.

Formaldehyde can harm the eyes, lungs and nasal passages, Rogers said. The chemical is also thought to be a carcinogen.

Moreover, there is no data showing that keratin treatments can strengthen the hair. Rather, the high-heat flat irons needed to seal the formaldehyde into the hair shaft can cause long-term damage to the hair, Rogers said.

Are hair-thickening products safe?

Products marketed as hair thickeners temporarily coat the hair shaft to make hair look thicker, but they cannot change the natural density of hair. The thickening effect will only last until the hair is washed.

Rogers said that these products are very safe, and advised consumers to look for hair-thickening products that contain hydrolyzed keratin or dimethicone, which coat the hair shaft to make hair appear thicker.

Some hair-thickening products now being marketed also contain the drug minoxidil, which can boost the density of thinning hair and create noticeably thicker hair. Minoxidil is the only topical medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration to regrow hair and slow future hair loss, Rogers said.

Should heat protectants be used when blow drying?

Heat from hair dryers, flat irons or curling irons can be very damaging to hair, and cause a condition that dermatologists call bubble hair: When the water in the hair is heated and turns to steam, it causes bubbles to form within the hair shaft. The result is brittle hair, with frizzy ends.

To counteract the effects of heat, Rogers recommended using a heat protectant before applying any heat to the hair. These products are sprayed or applied onto the hair, and contain protective polymers and silicones that insulate hair from heat.

Also, it is better to use the lowest temperature settings on hair dryers, and use heat as little as necessary and for the shortest time possible, Rogers said.

For hair already damaged by heat, moisturizing the hair regularly can help reduce the appearance of heat damage, but it cannot repair the hair, Rogers said. Cutting damaged hair, and allowing healthy hair to regrow, can also improve your locks' appearance.

7 Hair Care Beliefs that are Actually Damaging

2103e0bf42fb17e47213866928e1223dadaf4cd8

So you are all set for your wedding, fixed appointments with your beautician, made your trousseau shopping list and decided your look for the big day. This is the time when everyone you meet is up with some advice for you, either for your outfit, makeup, skin or hair. Especially when it comes to hair care, there are at least a dozen beliefs and tips that every person wants you to follow. But did you know that some of these are actually not true at all, and can in fact damage your hair? Read on, as we bust 7 such popular notions.

1. More you comb, better it is for hair growth

Regular combing is necessary for tangle-free and healthy looking hair. It also promotes blood circulation in the scalp. So, this belief might have some creditable origins. But if you overdo it, and do not use a wide-toothed comb, there are all the chances that you pull the hair off the follicles making the strands weak. Frequent combing can also irritate the scalp, further damaging the follicles. So, just be gentle and use a wide-toothed comb to untangle hair.

2. Frequent shampooing prevents oily hair

Hormonal and genetic factors regulate how much oil is produced by our scalp. Shampooing will only cleanse your scalp and hair. It cannot control how much oil is produced. In fact, too much shampooing can leave your hair brittle by sapping it off the natural, essential oil.

3. Some hair products repair split ends

Split ends are caused by the wear and tear of hair because of rough handling. Another reason is not regularly oiling and cleansing the hair. The only cure for split ends is trimming your hair regularly, and conditioning it well. Experimenting with too many fancy products will not only burn a hole in your pocket, but also make your hair weak.

4. Frequent trimming helps in hair growth

This is one of the favourite beliefs that many of us hold and pass on. The known fact, however, is that hair grow at the roots, and trimming the edges has no significance whatsoever, on the growth. All regular trimming can do is to make you look well-groomed and your hair well-managed by eliminating split ends. So, go ahead and do get a trim regularly, but only with the intention to look better. As far as hair growth is concerned, everyone’s hair grows about half an inch every month. So as a matter of fact, too much trimming might actually slow down the results you are looking for!

5. Only animal protein is best for your hair

Animal protein from sources like eggs, chicken and fish, is actually very good for your hair. But it does not mean that vegetarians cannot have healthy hair! In fact, if you over indulge in animal proteins, you run a risk of piling on excessive calories as well. So, your regular pulses, lentils, nuts, soya, and milk products are absolutely perfect too.

Also Read: Fight Hair Loss with these 6 Common Foods

6. Some shampoos and oils can boost hair growth instantly

It is no secret that the quality and health of your hair is governed largely by your genes. This also holds true for hair growth. Your hair growth can slow down a little bit as you age. But with a well-nourishing diet, enough exercise, and regular hair cleansing routine, you can have a normal, healthy hair growth. Topical application of shampoos, serums or oils can do nothing exceptional for that.

7. Protein-based shampoos nourish your hair 'from within'

It is true that hair is composed of protein and it does need protein to remain healthy. But, all the protein that it needs, it gets from your diet. The scalp needs nourishment from within for hair growth. The so-called “protein based” shampoos will do nothing more than clean your hair; and, their excessive use will leave your hair dry.

We would say, not just for your wedding, but also for later, getting your facts right before you fall prey to hearsay would be great for healthy hair.

26836f82e46040fca5a806badc0036547afa3dbd

Find a Hairbrush that’s Right for You

Ask any hairdresser and they’ll tell you that one of the most important aspects of your hair care regimen is getting the right brush for your hair type and style. To help you choose the right hairbrush for you, we’ve put together some handy tips.

Choosing the Right Hairbrush

Oval hairbrush – This hairbrush is used primarily for smoothening the hair. If you have a fringe, use this hairbrush to style it.

Cushioned hairbrush – Oval and rectangular hairbrushes often come with cushioned bases. These are great for people with long hair as the cushioning helps prevent the hair from being stretched or broken.

Ceramic round hairbrush – Ever wondered how beauty salons manage to give your hair volume and bounce that’s nearly impossible to replicate at home? The secret is the ceramic round brush that can works wonderfully well for styling and volumising hair.

Wooden round hairbrush – This hairbrush is pretty multi-functional and can work on multiple hair textures. Avoid using it while your hair is dropping wet though, and allow it to be nearly dry before you style it with this brush. In general, round hairbrushes are the best for styling straight hair.

Nylon hairbrush – Nylon hairbrushes come in many types and their efficacy depends mostly on their bristles. Stiffer bristles that are closed placed together give you better control over your hair. Bristles that are set far apart are better for detangling and light brushing.

Wide-toothed comb – If you’ve got curly hair, one way to make the best of your curls and avoid frizz is to use a wide-toothed comb to untangle it while it’s wet and then just let it dry. Many curly haired women prefer to not even use the wide-tooth comb and only use their fingers to comb through their hair.

Hairbrushes with metal bristles – These are best avoided as they are too inflexible to use on human hair.

Five Amazing Hair Care Tips for Winter

Rough and dry hair is a very common problem in winter. Here are some ways to keep your hair looking healthy and beautiful, even as the mercury drops.

The cool winter wind might calm your soul but it’s going to leave your hair dry, frizzy and unmanageable. As the season changes, you need to revamp your hair care regime too. So here is a guide to amazing, healthy and manageable hair.

Hair care tips for winter

Oil your hair: In winter, it is chilly outside and dry and warm inside the house; this changing temperature harms your hair.  Oil your hair regularly, use warm oil if you are comfortable. It will help to restore the moisture and give life to your lifeless tresses.

It is not necessary to keep the oil on for long hours; one to two hours is enough to do the trick.  Do not over use shampoo while you are washing the oil off because it will nullify the conditioning effect.

Wash them right: Even though it is cold do not use very hot water to wash your hair. The heat will steal your moisture. Use lukewarm water. Do not over use the shampoo and use mild shampoo if you wash your hair very frequently.

Never miss conditioning: Rich conditioning can be your shield against the harsh cold. Condition your hair everytime you wash them, it strengthens them and increases the elasticity. If you are opting for readymade conditioner make sure it suits your hair and is right for your hair type. You can also use coconut milk or curd for conditioning your hair. If you have curly hair it is best to use leave-in conditioner in the end.

Let them dry naturally: It is advisable not to use heat to dry your hair in winter. With blow drying you can end up having flyways and static effect. Let them air dry. Your lovely tresses will thank you for letting them be.

Take care if you cover: If you wear woollen cap or scarf to protect yourself against cold, you will experience hair breakage in certain areas on your head. This is because the caps and scarves rub against the delicate hair and pull them out. It is advisable to use satin scarves and to use caps which have cotton or satin lining.

Tame your flyaways

    Apply some hair serum and move your fingers instead of using a comb. You can also use a clean new toothbrush with soft bristles to tame the flyaways.

    Apply shampoo to your scalp and not your hair. You need to clean your scalp and flow of shampoo will automatically clean your hair.

    Flyaway hair is the dry hair so apply a little leave-in conditioner specifically to that layer of hair.

    It is great to stay away from alcohol. This means alcohol in your hair care products of course. Check the ingredients of the product you buy.

Mask for healthy hair in winter

Mix an egg yolk with two table spoons of olive oil and a glass of lukewarm water. Apply it all over your hair and wash off in an hour. Use lukewarm or cold water to wash it off.

*Do not use heena mask in winters as it dries your hair and can also cause cold.

Love of shampoo, warmth of oil and care of conditioning will give you beautiful hair this winter. So just treat your hair with love, warmth and care and shine on!

How to Take Care of Frizzy Hair?

Hair is porous, so your cuticles suck up every bit of moisture they get. During the hot months, when humidity hits the roof, cuticles absorb moisture and expand. This causes hair to frizz up. The scorching summer sun combined with heat styling procedures like blow-drying or straightening can result in frayed and brittle ends.  An easy way to tame your mane is by using a hydrating, nourishing shampoo and conditioner. Refrain from excessive styling with blow-dryers, curling irons or flat-irons, as too much heat damages the cuticle and leads to more frizz. Dr Aparna Santhanam, consulting dermatologist, Hindustan Unilever, says, “It’s important to use hats, scarves or umbrellas each time you step out to protect your hair from damage. Tie long hair back gently while travelling to minimise breakage.” 

SHOW SOME LOVE

Hair-care or pampering needn’t always be an expensive salon affair. Dr Santhanam lists out a few tricks to help turn your grooming routine into a full-blown pampering session:

Hot oil massage: 

Dr Santhanam suggests beginning your home hair spa with a deep oil massage to the scalp and hair, using oil enriched with different herbs and natural ingredients. “Warm a little coconut oil slightly and add a few curry leaves, hibiscus and jasmine flowers. Decant it and massage deeply for about 20 minutes,” she says.

Deep-conditioning hair pack: 

Step two is a heavy-duty conditioning mask. You can either go for readily available protein/wax hair masks, or whip up a natural pack with a mix of egg whites and natural products like hibiscus and aloe vera.

Get the hot towel:

After the pack has worked its magic on your hair for 20 minutes, wrap your hair with a steamed hot towel. This will make sure that your hair and scalp absorb all the proteins and nutrients from the pack.

Wash up: 

Rinse with a deep cleansing clarifying shampoo and conditioner.

Post-wash conditioning: 

The final step involves applying a serum or leave-in conditioner for shine. It’s best to let the hair dry naturally. If you’re stepping out, blow-dry to a sleek, desired finish.

8 Different Ways To Part Your Hair

Love to style your hair differently? Well, giving your hair the desired partition, either the side or centre, can do wonders in styling your hair. You will see that there are ways to part your hair. It is one of the most interesting styles for any kind of hair. It adds volume and also puts in some amazing curves to your hair making it look gorgeous. You can have any kind of hair, short, long or wavy, but having a partition will suit your hair and enhance your overall look.

HOW TO PUT A FRENCH BRAID

Sometimes, your hand plays games, and while you are sitting in a meeting or something, you part your hair with the hand. It may appear like a habit, but it gives some different look to the hair. There’s no need to visit a stylist in case you are looking for ways to part your hair. There are some instant tricks to part your hair that you can try out.

This would help you get a new hairstyle and also make sure your hair looks voluminous. Here are some tricks to part your hair. Try them out before hitting out for a party or something.

Side Ways PartThis is one of the usual and most significant ways to part your hair. The trick is to keep one side heavily filled with hair, while not having much hair along the other side of your head. It gives your hair and your face a good appeal. Overall, your hair begins to look and feel good. You should definitely try this whenever you are bored with your current hairstyle.

Middle Part This is yet another way to give your hair a part. This definitely works well when you got to tie a ponytail or something similar. You may want to make sure both sides have equal hair. When you have long hair, middle part makes it look and feel good. You can possibly try it out.

Zig Zag PartingsThey are the best way to give your hair the desired look. You would find your hair looking adorable in the zig zag pattern that you have just created with your brush. Zig zag is one of the best tricks to part your hair. Make sure the zig zag looks good enough though.

Middle to Zig ZagThis is yet another flattering hairstyle that you may want to try. This suits best when you have fringes in the middle. They work perfectly with the fringes. You would have to part with the fringes, and then you can have a zig zag formed by layers.

Extreme Side PartYou could use this style to part your hair. In this case, your one side of the hair is extremely parted, while the other side is thinned down in terms of partition. You will definitely feel good when you try out this hairstyle.

Side Part with Thin LineYou will see that this kind of side parting is quite popular. You will need a thin line clinging along the side that would create this parting. It is famous for the eyeliner look.

Deep Side PartingOne of the best tricks to part your hair would be giving it a deep side part. Along with the plain lines, it makes your features look distinct and you will appear to have a pretty face.

Undone Zig ZagWhen perfectly done, you would feel a good zig zag in order, but just in case you have not done it up perfectly you know how it is. The zig zag is pretty unusual and layered in format giving your hair a different style.

10 Ways To Have Soft Hair

Healthy hair means beautiful hair. But not all of us are blessed with healthy, beautiful hair that shines and bounces with joy. Moreover the present day lifestyle of running from pillar to post, erratic eating schedules and lack of rest deprives our hair of the much required nutrition. To top it all is the amount of pollution that strips every strand off its oils and leaves it dry and lifeless. What does one do in such conditions?

Hair care tips are numerous but which one to follow? If we go by the luring television commercials and glossy magazine ads a hefty amount will be spent on hair care products. In the form of tips for soft hair there will be a host of products displayed. We have products ranging from quick action hair oils, shampoos repairing years of damage in a couple of washes, conditioners, serums, softeners and a host of other products.

The range of products available should make our hair feel so special but so we really need all of them? Our older generation never had so many hair care products and yet they had lovely, long tresses. The basic requirement is to keep hair and scalp clean. Massage oil once or twice a week and keep away from unnatural treatment. Keep your minimum requirement to an oil and shampoo. For other hair care tips look towards your kitchen.

Hair care in the Kitchen

Given here are some items that we all find in our kitchen and pantry. Make use of them for your hair and see your hair thank you in a real bouncy manner.

Egg

This has been my all favorite all along. It not only provides the much needed protein to the scalp and hair but also acts as an excellent conditioner. Mix with other items like honey, lemon or even milk. If your hair is oiled then no problem or else you can add the oil to the egg hair mask. Apply on every strand and scalp. Allow to dry for at least half an hour and then shampoo as always.

Honey 

Mix it with egg or milk and apply to strands and scalp. If you do not wish to mix it apply as it is. However, do not leave it for too long a time as honey can lighten the shade of your hair. A natural conditioner and moisturizer for your hair that gives natural care.

Milk

This is a source of protein for the hair. Time and again research has said that protein is important for good hair and what could be better than milk. Apart from that it also helps condition the hair strands.

Oil

Hair care tips can never be complete without oil. If you regularly wash your hair without pre-oiling you will so see your hair texture taking a dip. Hair will start looking dry and dull and may develop a frizz as well.

Banana

The fruity smell of banana comes with the goodness of giving us gorgeously beautiful hair. Puree bananas as per your hair length, mix with beaten egg and apply. Let it soak it in a little and wash as always.

Yoghurt

This is yet another great source of protein, a good moisturizer and conditioner for the hair. Apply it on its own or mix with gram flour, soaked and ground fenugreek seeds or even with egg.

Beer

Have we not heard of beer shampoo? Chuck the shampoo and get real beer. No do not drink it but use it as a conditioner. After you have shampooed your hair give your hair a beer rinse. They will dance with joy.

Apple cider vinegar

Of the many benefiters of apple cider vinegar the hair is also one to benefit. A post wash rinse with apple cider vinegar helps get rid of all residue and hair shines with all its might and also has a smooth texture.

Lemon

A close cousin of vinegar this too is an excellent cleanser when mixed with hair packs. The juice of one lemon for long hair and half a lemon for shorter hair. Apply with egg, oil, milk or honey and treat your hair.

Gram flour

Rich in protein mix it with yoghurt and apply as a hair mask. Allow the hair and scalp to absorb the benefits for a minimum of half an hour and wash as usual. Hair will be soft, smooth and silky.

The Perfect Straight Hair Experience

In January, beauty bloggers around the country responded to Sunsilk’s question ‘What is the craziest experiment you’ve tried to get straight hair?’. The responses were indeed crazy, wacky and lots of fun! Sunsilk responded personally to every blogger, reassuring them that they need not experiment with their hair anymore and offered them a solution to get straight hair every day – thus, was launched Sunsilk Perfect Straight shampoo and conditioner!

Every blogger received a sample of Sunsilk Perfect Straight and got an opportunity to try and test the product for themselves. To create some more buzz, Sunsilk asked bloggers to write about their product experience, thus getting credible reviews from real girls and lots of feedback about the brand’s latest product. 

With an exciting grand prize (an iPad) and 15 Kindles, the entries were super creative. From picture stories, to stop motion videos to hilarious real life accounts, bloggers testified to Sunsilk Perfect Straight being the perfect solution to straight hair days.

Pooja, who blogs at My Lips Don't Lie, has been chosen as the GRAND PRIZE WINNER, for her witty account of how she is wary about losing hair with straightening irons.

Shruthi Chaturvedhi’s entry ‘Lock Kar Diya Jaye’ was a creative spin on the Sunsilk brand communication ‘Lock Karo, Rock Karo’ on her blog Chaai, Paani, Biskut etc

Bushra too says ‘I locked, I rocked’ in her blog Stillettomaniac and who can’t agree that straight hair rocks!

Modonika gave rated the product 4/5 at Modonika

Pooja Kopargaonkar who says she had frizzy hair, says Sunsilk really helped control the frizz in her blog Born with Heels.

Ganga Bharani’s stop motion video was impressive and we think the amount of effort she put in is truly commendable – a real Sunsilk girl, this one! Do check out her video at Scribbled by GB.

So….if you have not yet tried Sunsilk Perfect Straight, what are you waiting for? Go ahead….LOCK KARO, ROCK KARO!

10 Things No One Ever Tells You About Cutting Your Hair

The big chop seems all the rage during the warmer months, but whether you’re thibking about a pixie or you’re just trying to take a few inches off your locks, there’s a thing or 1o you should know about cutting your hair. Below are 10 little known facts about cutting your hair, and some tips to help you get the best out of your cut.

1. Cutting your hair more often doesn’t make it grow faster: Getting rid of the ends of your hair doesn’t directly effect hair growth. The ends of your hair don’t effect the follicles in your scalp, which determine how fast and how much your hair grows. Trimming simply keeps hair more healthy as it grows.

2. Skip the trim: Give yourself some time in between each trim instead of going with the typical 6-8 weeks. Hair begins to split around the 3-4 month mark, which is when you’ll actually need a trim.

3. Layer accordingly: When cutting your hair, you should layer it according to your hair texture. Tighter curls work best with layers that aren’t perfectly even, while straighter hair works best with more even layers.

4. Skip the shampoo: Before cutting hair, skip the shampoo. You’ll be having your hair washed anyway, so there’s no need to dry out the cuticle twice.

5. It’s best to trim natural hair when dry: For girls with natural hair, it’s important to know that hair should be cut when dry. Head to a salon that specializes in natural tresses so you know you’re getting the best cut possible.

6. Search salon apprentice websites first: Looking to get your hair cut for less money? Try SalonApprentice.com, where you can volunteer to be a hair model for already licensed stylists who need to clock a certain amount of hours cutting hair. You’ll be in good hands for half (or less!) the cost.

7. All bangs aren’t cut equally: If you’re thinking about getting bangs, know what works best for your face and for your hair texture. Long, wispy bangs usually work best for a square face, while softer, shorter bangs work best to frame a round face.

8. Short hair takes work: Cutting off your hair doesn’t make hair care any easier. To keep them maintained, shorter cuts usually require more frequent trips to the salon to keep the shape and style fresh, which ends up costing more money (and time).

9. If you don’t trim, split ends will travel: Split ends will continue to split up the length of the hair if you don’t trim them, making your hair brittle and weak. When you start seeing split ends more often than non-split ends, it’s time to get a cut.

10. Bring options: Sure, we’ve all got our Pinterest boards full of haircut inspiration, but make sure you bring multiple options. When you get to the salon, your stylist may explain that a certain cut won’t work with your texture, or that it will actually require much more maintenance than you originally thought. Bringing options will leave you multiple routes for a happy cut.

Hair Care Tips for a Healthy Scalp

Hair problems such as thinning or falling of hair, premature greying or breakage, dandruff and flaking could be symptoms that indicate an unhealthy scalp. As upsetting and embarrassing as these may be, they are also warning signs to start taking care of your scalp. 

What's your scalp type?

Much like skin, the scalp too can broadly be divided into three types — normal, oily and dry. To be able to master a scalp care regime, you need to determine which scalp type you are (see table below). We got an expert to suggest beauty routines for each variant.

Normal Scalp

Says trichologist Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi, “Since it has the right balance of sebaceous glands, the normal scalp type is generally not prone to problems like dandruff or excessive oil deposition.” 

What to do?

Shampoo and condition your hair twice a week with a herbal shampoo meant for normal hair. Always use a light conditioner after, to avoid frizzy flyaways.

Do a warm oil treatment once a month so that the oil glands are stimulated. Keep the oil on for about an hour and shampoo off. If you don’t want to an oil treatment, simply massage your hair with water. 

The physical pressure applied in massaging helps in improving blood circulation.

Home remedy: Treat your hair to an avocado and olive oil mask once a month to render it a luscious shine. Mash one ripe avocado, add half a cup coconut milk and one tablespoon olive oil and whisk well. Apply this mixture to dry hair and leave it on for 30 minutes. Shampoo and condition your hair as you would do usually.

Oily scalp

Contrary to popular belief, oily scalp is most prone to dandruff and flaking. The excess oil that the sebaceous glands in the scalp produce, tends to accumulate around the roots, clogging the pores. The hair is usually limp and flat, making it almost impossible for volumising or styling products to hold.

What to do:

Shampoo your hair every day with a deep cleansing shampoo suitable for oily hair. If you suffer from dandruff, opt for an anti-dandruff variety. If you must use conditioner, ensure you leave the conditioner on for under 60 seconds. Avoid using leave-in conditioners.

Do not apply extra oil unless suggested by a trichologist. Avoid brushing your hair too much as that stimulates secretion of oil. 

Home remedy: To control secretion of excess oil, make a mixture of lemon and hibiscus flower with two tablespoons of curd. Apply it on your hair like a mask. Leave on for about 20 minutes, then shampoo off.

Dry scalp

A dry scalp causes constant itching and flaking, leaving the hair rough, dull and frizzy. “Since the oil secreted by the sebaceous glands is insufficient, apply oil externally for your mane’s natural nourishment,” says Dr Chaturvedi. 

What to do?

Oil your hair overnight before you decide to wash your hair. Shampoo only once a week with a product that contains natural oils for moisture. Opt for a thick cream-based conditioner and leave it on for about 10 minutes before rinsing off.

Get a warm oil treatment every week to stimulate the sebaceous glands. Massage your scalp thoroughly to stimulate oil secretion.

Home remedy: To moisturise your scalp and stimulate oil secretion, cut a lemon into half. Rub it in circular motions all over wet hair to exfoliate dry skin off the surface. Let the lemon juice soak for about 30 minutes and rinse with water.

Scalp care tips

Avoid loading the hair with too many products. Make sure your hair is free of products at least once a week to ensure the scalp can “breathe”

Do not blow-dry hair for more than five minutes

Invest in a massaging hairbrush to stimulate the scalp, thereby strengthening your tresses

Never brush your hair in a hurry as friction causes split ends

Avoid brushing when the scalp is wet

Do not tie up wet hair as the moisture accumulates and clogs the pores, subjecting your scalp to bacterial and fungal infections

Always wash your hair in lukewarm water so that it is not too harsh on your scalp

Include soyabeans, broccoli, flaxseeds and radish in your daily diet

Avoid touching and pulling your hair too much as this could lead to richotillomania

13 Food Types for Healthy Hair

A wholesome diet, rich in silica, calcium and iron, will help reduce or prevent hair loss. Following a simple diet schedule of these 13 food type one can hold back hairloss without having to run around expensive salons.

When your hair starts falling off like dry straws, what can you do? 

Well, panicking and running around to expensive salons for hair treatment might seem a brilliant idea, but the truth is that you can manage to get a hold of the situation back at your home alone.

First, it would help to locate the various reasons for hair loss. Studies have revealed that men lose hair for some common reasons, like:

• Improper diet,
• Lack of proper vitamins,
• Genetic factors,
• Excessive stress, anxiety and worries,
• Prolonged illnesses like typhoid, anemia, dysentery, jaundice etc,
• Poor blood circulation, and
• Unclean scalps.

Once you have located the source of your problem, it can become much easier to fight back. In desperate times like these, it would help to go completely natural. Do not trust chemical products since they might cause more harm than good. To put your panicking soul to rest, here are 15 different ways to reduce hair loss:

• Take a glass of water with flaxseed (alsi) in an empty stomach. This will provide you with the omega 3 acid that you need for hair growth.
• Begin every day with one amla. Women generally use hair oil made of amla to get those lustrous curls, didn’t you know?
• Soak 5 almonds every night in water and eat them with their skin on.
• Your scalp needs nutrition. So get plenty of fluids like buttermilk, lime juice and coconut water. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day!
• One bowl of sprouted pulses for would be great.
• Proteins. Eat chicken and egg each day.
• Reduce you daily intake of tea and coffee.
• When you are washing hair, use a teaspoon of lime juice for the last rinse. That make your hair lustrous while protecting it from dandruff.
• You are never too old for milk. Drink two glasses of skimmed milk for maximum benefits.
• Apply a paste of methi seeds on your scalp for half an hour once every week, and drink methi water on empty stomachs.
• Remember how the age old sadhus survived on fruits? No wonder that they had such long hair! Eat at least 2 or 3 fruits every day like strawberries, bananas, apples, mangoes, chikoos, and grapes.
• Go green- eat a lot of vegetables, munch away on that iron laden spinach.
• It is better to have more faith in white meat. Fish, chicken and egg can do wonders for your hair!  Try to stay away from red meat.

Hair loss is more common in case of men than women. And you always did wonder whether gender difference worked out better for women, right? Follow these principles to the boots, and you would see satisfactory results soon enough!

Home made hair packs for luscious hair in this winter

Winter can be harsh on your hair. Here are few hair packs which will help maintain beautiful hair this season.

A good hair care routine is a must during the winter months.  Lack of moisture in the air coupled with decreased humidity and pollution makes your hair weak causing split ends and damage. To regain the nourished and glossy look of your hair, try some of these time-tested beauty regimes, formulated by our experts especially for this season.

a

Home-made hair care packs for winter

Strawberry pack

You will need: One cup crushed strawberries, half cup rosemary shredded and one tablespoon vinegar. Mix the above ingredients well in a bowl and apply to your hair. Leave it on till its dry (about half an hour) and rinse. This pack works well even on coloured hair.

Egg and banana pack

Bananas make for wonderful hair conditioners. Use ripe ones for maximum benefit. You will need:  two ripe mashed bananas, two eggs beaten well, juice of one lime and two vitamin E capsules. Mix all the items in a bowl, apply to your hair and wear a shower cap, keep it on for about thirty minutes, then shampoo. This pack can be used as often as twice a week.

Fuller’s earth pack

Fuller’s earth or multani mitti is a must in beauty regimes of Indian women. You will need:  two tablespoons each of Fuller’s earth and gram flour (besan) and half cup vinegar. Mix well and apply for twenty minutes, then rinse. For very dry hair, you can apply hair oil before putting on the pack.

Shikakai pack

You will need: two to three tablespoon shikakai powder, two tablespoon each of fenugreek seeds and green gram (soaked the previous night and blended together). To this add one whole egg, mix well and use like a shampoo. This pack makes hair soft and shiny.

Who doesn’t like a handful of cashews as an evening snack? Luckily, these delicious nuts are also good for your health.

Benefits of cashews include:

Full of good fats that are good for cholesterol and a healthy heart

Contain magnesium and copper that help to strengthen bones and are good for blood flow.

Contain soluble dietary fibre

Do include nuts in your diet. You could go with a handful of mixed nuts or even chop some nuts up and add them to your morning cereal. However, remember, its best to eat nuts raw or dry roasted, with minimum or no salt. Also, nut allergy can be fairly common. So make sure you’re not allergic to a certain nut before indulging in it. And like with anything else in life, eat in moderation. Other than that, all we can say is, go nuts!

5 Major Hair Care Myths

Hair Care myths include fixing split ends, plucking grey hair, braids and hair fall, hair washing causing dryness and quality of hair products

There's a lot of faulty science passed down generations when it comes to grooming.

Here, we take the mumbo-jumbo that a lot of you might believe.

Fixing Split EndsIt can't be done. Nope - it can't. The myth of 'fixing' split ends might have started with a company selling a split end sealing product, but split ends are terminal - they can't be fixed. You have to cut them off.

Of course, there are temporary fixes, with products that lay down the split ends so they don't show. But that's where the fixing ends.

Plucking a Grey Hair Causes Two to Grow BackAgain, not true. Plucking grey hair will damage your roots, even infect the empty root and hurt like hell, but it won't cause more grey hairs to sprout out. If it did, you'd have the world's cheapest (and most natural) way of avoiding baldness.

Braids Will Grow Your Hair FasterFor both women and men who braid their hair, braiding will cause too tight or too long can cause hair loss and baldness. One of the reasons behind this is Traction alopecia, a slow hair loss caused by pulling hair too tight by applying too much tension.

Regular Hair Washing Causes Hair Drying (and Hair Loss Too!)Unless you're using a shampoo that leaves residue in your hair, a good shampoo and conditioner -selected for your hair texture and condition - the added add moisture and body will lead to nicer, healthier hair.

Hair Products used by Professional Stylists are the Same as Store-Bought ProductsNot all shampoo is the same. (If it were, wouldn't SRK be saving money using Head and Shoulders) While the concept of 'professional hairstylist' is ambiguous in India, the expensive, 500 bucks a haircut guys (not barbers!)

Professional products have more quality, expensive ingredients blended for an optimum formula - something you won't find in your local Rs.1 sachet shampoo. If you pay a buck, you'll get a bucks worth of hair care.

Keep your Hair Silky and Bouncy

Dry scalp, dull hair, dandruff and excessive hair fall - these problems are not just winter problems. And fretting and worrying can worsen things, say experts, claiming the problem can be controlled with the right treatment.

Dry scalp, dull hair, dandruff and excessive hair fall - these problems are not just winter problems. And fretting and worrying can worsen things, say experts, claiming the problem can be controlled with the right treatment.

The importance of hair can be understood from the fact that those with a receding hairline or bald patches are queuing up outside specialised hair transplant clinics and splurging on treatments.

Rohit Batra, dermatologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, told IANS: 'It is a temporary phase and people shouldn't get tense thinking about it because stress is also a reason for excessive hair fall.

'Flaky skin, frizzy, rebellious hair are common during winter, but it can be avoided and repaired.'

To keep the tresses lustrous and bouncy, Batra suggests that one should 'oil hair regularly'.

'Fungal problems aggravate when people do not wash their hair frequently, when they do not oil their hair or let the conditioner stay for a longer duration.

'Another factor is that in winter usually people wash hair with hot water, but they forget that it is not advisable. They should wash hair with lukewarm water because hot water leaves the scalp dry,' Batra added.

If dermatologists are not available, one can consult hair stylists who are trained and can dole out good hair care tips.

'Season change always has certain side effects. Be it monsoon or winter, it is a time when everyone needs to take care of one's skin and hair,' stylist Raj, who is associated with Prince and Princess beauty clinic, told IANS.

'The number of customers with such complaints increases during winter. On a normal day, a fall of 50-60 strands is considered healthy. In winters, a person can experience hair fall of more than 200 strands,' he added.

If you can't afford professional treatments, you can go for effective home remedies, says stylisht Gaurav Sharma.

To get rid of dandruff, 'use lemon juice, camphor mixed in coconut oil. People should apply lemon juice for 15 minutes and then rinse it. This is a very effective remedy. Lemons are easily available and are also cost-effective,' he said.

'To get back the texture, wash hair with beer. It really helps bring the shine back and gives volume too,' he added.

Even celebrity hairstylist Amjad Habib emphasises the quick home remedy to fix fizzy tresses.

'Home remedies are the most effective. People who have normal but frizzy hair can apply mashed mango and mint paste. It brings back the shine and makes hair smooth,' said Habib.

'People who have very dry hair should apply a paste of three bananas and honey and leave it for 50 minutes. It takes away the dryness and makes the hair softer. Lastly, for people who have oily hair they should apply a paste of mint on the scalp and leave it for 10-15 minutes and then rinse it thoroughly,' he added.

Batra also advises a nourishing diet.

'As far as medicinal precautions are concerned people can take Vitamin H, calcium pantothenate and biotin. A lot of hair serum (like Livon) are also available in the market. It helps a lot in bringing back the shine.'

'A rich diet of protein is what we recommend. For non-vegetarians fish and chicken helps. Vegetarians should indulge in soya products,' he added.

7 Bad Habits That Are Ruining Your Hair

It's time to rethink your go-to ponytail.

"There are a lot of things you do on a daily basis that can wreak havoc on your hair," says celebrity stylist Harry Josh, who works with Gisele Bundchen, Rose Byrne, and a ton of other A-listers. According to Josh, here's what you're doing wrong.

1. Using the wrong hair ties.

"You might still be using an elastic with the metal fasteners that hold the hair tie together, or, God forbid, an office rubber band to put your hair up, but these types of hair binders will only rip out your hair when you try to take them out," Josh says. "Instead, get one that is made entirely out of fabric. And never use a rubber band to pull your hair up — they're your hair's worst enemy."

2. Doing your ponytail the same way each time.

"If you normally put your hair in a ponytail in the exact same spot every day, you can actually cause surface breakage in that area," Josh says. "What happens over time is that your hair will start to get weaker and break off in that spot, and you'll be left with a bunch of flyaways."

3. Pulling it back too tightly.

"Over time, this can cause breakage to the hairline, since you're essentially putting a lot of tension on your hair at the root," explains Josh. "If you have a frail hairline, opt for looser styles." 

4. Skipping using heat protectant spray when you style.

"These types of products nourish as they style and put a barrier between the plates of the hot tool and the inner core of your hair shaft, which keeps it strong," says Josh. "Some even contain UV filters, which help shield UV rays from sun damage, which makes it feel rough and look dry."

5. Brushing it with a boar bristle brush when it's wet.

"You always want to use a paddle brush or wide-tooth comb when you're trying to detangle your hair after you shower," says Josh. "Go for one with bristles set far apart; otherwise, using a boar bristle brush will yank your hair out since its bristles are so close together." 

6. Never brushing it at all.

"Brushing your hair invigorates the blood in your scalp, bringing it to the follicle," Josh explains. "And the healthier the follicle is, the healthier and more lustrous your hair will look."

7. Trying to fix your at-home dye job yourself.

"If you're trying to do the ombré look or give yourself highlights at home, and your hair comes out looking more yellow than what you were going for, call your stylist," Josh says. "If you go out and buy another box, thinking you're going to give it another go, think again. You could end up frying off your hair and making it fall out."

Benefits Of Mosambi Juice For Hair

Mosambi juice is good for the health. This juice is rich in minerals and nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium. It is healthy as well as energising. But did you know that mosambi juice is good for your hair too?

As the juice contains several nutrients, it is helpful in keeping your hair healthy. It can be used on your hair to improve its quality. Here are some hair care tips using the mosambi juice.

Fruit Hair Packs

To make a mosambi juice fruit hair pack, you need to extract the juice and mix it with yogurt or cream and then apply on the hair. Mosambi juice helps in increasing the smoothness of your hair. It also gives the hair a natural glow. You can apply this hair pack on your hair and keep it for half an hour. Rinse it well with cold water and repeat the process once every week. Regular use of this fruit hair pack will give better results. This is one of the hair care tips you must follow.

Improves Strength

Mosambi juice can also be used directly on the hair. This juice contains vitamin C which helps to improve the strength of the hair. This is one of the best hair care tips for people who suffer from hair fall. Mosambi juice extracts can help in making the hair strong naturally. Before directly applying the juice on hair, strain it to remove any impurities. Use the juice at least once a week for good results.

Colours Hair

A fruit hair pack using henna and mosambi juice can be used to colour the hair. Henna and mosambi juice have the properties to impart colour to the hair. However, mosambi juice is better because it contains copper which increases the melanin content in the hair and hence, it imparts a black shade to the hair naturally. People who suffer from grey hair problem can use this hair care tip.

Hair Growth

Overall growth of the hair can be improved by using mosambi juice. One can use mosambi juice to improve the texture and quality of hair. Many hair care tips suggest that mosambi juice should be used frequently by people who suffer from hair growth problems.

Direct Consumption

Drinking mosambi juice is also good for the hair. The consumption of vitamin C present in this juice is good for hair health.

Time to say goodbye to dandruff now

Dandruff is an embarrassing problem. One that often gets aggravated as winter sets in. We’ll tell you how you can get rid of it!

What is dandruff?

Dandruff is shedding of the skin on the scalp, that leads to white flakes on the head, neck and shoulders.

Our skin cells continuously renew themselves. The new skin cells push the old ones to the surface and out of the scalp. In the case of a person with dandruff, the rate of renewal is faster – which means more dead skin is shed, making dandruff more noticeable. Some people with dandruff might also suffer from irritation, itch and redness on the scalp.

Excessive flaking could also be a sign of underlying conditions like psoriasis. Dandruff can also occur when the scalp is frequently exposed to extreme temperatures.

Signs and symptoms of dandruff:

The biggest sign will have to be white flakes on the scalp and hair. If the person is wearing dark-coloured clothing – flakes will be noticeable when they fall on the shoulders.

• An itchy scalp
• Sore scalp
• Greasy flakes

If you have dandruff pay attention to these tips:

• There are many over-the-counter anti-dandruff shampoos that contain varied ingredients to combat dandruff effectively. It’s best to pick one with any of the following ingredients: zinc pyrithione, selenium sulphide, coal tar, ketoconazole, salicylic acids, tea-tree oil, green tea.
• Shampoo your hair every day to prevent dead skin build-up on your scalp.
• Use an anti-dandruff shampoo twice a week, and use a mild shampoo on the other days of the week.
• When you wash your hair, apply shampoo, lather well, rinse and repeat again. Make sure you rub your scalp gently to dislodge any dead skin on your scalp. Also, if you are using an anti-dandruff shampoo add another step i.e.: apply shampoo, lather well, wait for 2 minutes and then rinse. This allows the shampoo time to work.
• In case you use a conditioner, make sure you only apply it on your hair and not the scalp. Also ensure you wash it off thoroughly, as any residue will only worsen your dandruff.
• Brush/comb your hair regularly. This will help routinely dislodge any dead skin on your scalp.

Some home remedies for dandruff:

• Make a mixture of 6 tsp. of water and 2 tsp. of vinegar and apply on scalp with cotton. Leave it on overnight and rinse. Do this once a week for about a month.
• Make a paste of soaked fenugreek seeds and curd. Apply on scalp and leave for half an hour and wash.
• Mix a tsp. of lime juice and 2 tsp. of vinegar and massage on the scalp. Wash after an hour.

If your dandruff is persistent even after a few weeks of such treatments – it is advisable to visit a dermatologist.