Has worrying about your dull hair become your second nature? If you've left no stone unturned in your quest for smooth and shiny hair, you're not alone. Some of the biggest culprits for dull hair are over-washing and buildup from hair products.
Getting shiny hair doesn't have to be difficult. In this article, we discuss how to manage dull hair and the best ways to restore shine into your hair. Read on for more.
Highlights:
What Is Dull Hair?
Dull hair refers to hair that lacks moisture and natural shine. Dullness develops when the hair does not receive or retain enough moisture. The symptoms of dull hair include dryness, frizziness, and a rough texture.
Several reasons can contribute to dull hair, such as using the wrong hair care products, deficiency of nutrients in your diet, and the excessive use of harsh chemicals.
Luckily, there exist specific techniques and home remedies to transform dull hair into vibrant, glossy locks.
What Causes Dull Hair?
Before trying treatments for dull hair, it is necessary to examine the reasons that cause it. A detailed approach towards dull hair can help you choose the right solution.
- Improper hair care techniques
- A diet that lacks essential nutrients [1]
- Excessive heat styling
- Overexposure to sunlight [2]
- Harsh chemicals in hair care products
- Hormonal changes during pregnancy [3]
How To Fix Dull Hair?
1. Hair Conditioning
Shiny hair refers to hair that reflects light. In case you've noticed, smoother surfaces reflect more light than rough ones. The same thing goes for your hair.
Hair experts recommend conditioning your hair after every wash. Conditioners can instantly help smoothen the cuticle, which is the outermost layer of your hair. It also helps naturally protect the cortex, which is the innermost layer of your hair.
Additionally, conditioning can save your hair from tangles and breakage. With consistent application, it can restore your hair's natural bounce.
2. Hydration
Hydrating your hair should be your highest priority if you have dull hair. Dry hair has a rough and dull surface and is more prone to damage, whereas moisturized hair has smooth and shiny cuticles.
If you want to keep your hair and scalp hydrated, try using a pre-shampoo moisturizing treatment or a nourishing hair mask at least once a week to get visible results.
3. Wash Your Hair Regularly
Dull hair is often dry. So, while it may not be a good idea to wash your hair daily, as a general rule, most experts recommend washing your hair every 2-3 days. Use a mild clarifying shampoo to eliminate dirt and product buildup without stripping your hair of its natural oils.
4. Choosing The Right Products
It is key to tailor your hair care routine and products to your hair type. While the right shampoo and conditioner can do wonders for your hair, the wrong ones can significantly damage it.
While choosing hair care products, remember to consider your hair's type and texture. It's also best to steer clear of products containing harmful chemicals, sulfates, and parabens.
5. Correct Usage Of Products
The most common reason for dull hair is improper rinsing of shampoo, which can also lead to product buildup. Experts recommend rinsing your hair until the water runs clear and is free of soap bubbles.
Avoid applying conditioner to your roots as it weighs your hair down while making it look dull and flat. Use conditioner only on the mid-lengths and ends of your hair.
Limit the use of styling products as much as possible. While hair products containing silicones [4] can impart a luminous shine to your dull hair, it is best to use them sparingly.
6. Take Care Of Hair Ends
Uneven and messy ends can make your hair look dull, even after you've properly washed and conditioned it. Trimming your hair every 8-12 weeks can help prevent split ends. Don't forget to use a heat protection spray or serum on your hair before blow-drying or heat styling.
7. Towel Drying
Wet hair is more prone to damage. Roughly rubbing your hair with a towel can significantly weaken your hair and lead to split ends, breakage, and hair fall. To towel dry your hair correctly, squeeze out any excess water from your hair, then gently blot small sections with a soft, microfiber towel.
Home Remedies For Dull Hair
1. Baking Soda
Hair problems often lead you to several treatments, which over time, can block the natural flow of oils and nutrients to your hair shaft. Buildup from products can weaken your hair strands and make it look dull.
While a clarifying shampoo can help you unclog hair follicles and ensure sufficient nutrients and natural oils for your hair, we have a home remedy that can do the same.
Usage
Add 2 tbsp (4 tbsps for longer hair) of baking soda to a bowl. Mix it with water until it turns into a paste. Gently massage the paste into your scalp, and apply it to the lengths of your hair. Allow it to sit for about 4-5 minutes. Rinse it thoroughly with water and follow with a conditioner.
2. Hair Oil
Coconut oil [5] can be very beneficial for dull hair. Massaging your hair once or twice a week can leave it moisturized, nourished, and healthy.
Usage
Apply the hair oil to your scalp and roots normally or mix the oil with your conditioner. The amount of oil depends on the texture of your hair. Massage well and leave it on overnight.
3. Avocado
Avocado is enriched with natural oil and protein. It helps your hair lock in moisture and makes it smooth and shiny. You can also use avocado to create a nourishing DIY hair mask. [6]
Usage
Take half an avocado and mash it up. Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to it. Mix them well and apply as a mask after shampooing.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is another natural alternative to clarify your hair, boost shine, and promote hair growth. It also helps retain the pH level of your scalp and hair.
Usage
Take a tablespoon of ACV and mix it with 1/2 cup of water. If you have a problem with its smell, add a few drops of orange essential oil. Massage it into your scalp and allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes. Rinse with water and follow with a conditioner.
Other Things You Can Try For Dull Hair
1. Sleep On A Silk Pillow Cover
A simple change in your routine can have a significant impact on your hair. Switch from your current pillowcase to a silk pillow cover. It is an effective way to prevent friction that comes with tossing and turning while sleeping.
2. Use The Right Kind Of Brush
Round or flat shaped brushes that have plenty of gap between the bristles are ideal for dull hair. Always brush gently.
3. Try Sunflower Oil
Sunflower oil is rich in vitamins, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. The advantage of it is that it absorbs quickly into the scalp. You can try moisturizing your hair and scalp with sunflower oil before shampooing it.
Wrapping Up
Generally, hair looks lackluster and dull when it is dry and damaged. However, appropriate measures such as maintaining your scalp's health, increasing your protein intake, and using a deep conditioning treatment for your scalp and hair from time to time, can help you get it back in shape.
SkinKraft offers a customized hair care regimen based on your hair type and unique hair needs.
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