Home Remedies for Hair Woes – Monsoon Edition

Rains have drenched the streets, parks, and the whole town, but let them not drench your spirits. Most people complain that the monsoon is causing havoc to the hair instead of bringing magic to their lives.

Why does the monsoon cause damage to our mane?

The rainy season brings with it hair problems like frizzy hair, oily scalp, dull, and rough hair and most important of all, hair fall.

What are the reasons for hair damage during the monsoon?

1. There is a lot of humidity in the air during this season. The humidity is responsible for weakening hair follicles by causing micro-inflammation at the roots. This is visible as flaking, which the leads to breakage of the hair very easily.
2. Moisture in the air makes scalp oily, which increases the chances of infections and dandruff.
3. Rains tend to keep the hair wet for a longer time, which again leads to infections and easy breakage.
4. Pollutants in rainwater damage hair greatly.

Is there a solution to monsoon hair problems or do we have to fret every time this lovely season sets in?

Fear not!

Here is a list of tips and remedies to address all of your hair problems and keep your hair glowing and shining this season.

• Since rainwater carries pollutants and hair oil secretions increase during this season, it is important to wash your hair 2-3 times a week. Choose a mild shampoo so that the frequent washing does not rob your mane of its natural sheen. Keeping your hair clean by regular shampooing will also prevent itching and fungal infections.
• It is very important to air dry your hair after washing. Using a hair dryer frequently will dry up the hair leaving it dull and brittle. Use a micro fibre towel, which will absorb the water easily. Dry your hair completely before going out in the humid weather.
• Since hair becomes weak and frizzy during this season, it goes without saying that using conditioner is a must to ensure that natural moisture is locked in and hair remains soft and silky.
• Oil your hair regularly to nourish it. Apply oil gently and do not massage vigorously to avoid breakage of hair.
• Try to avoid chemical based hair treatments. Harsh chemicals used in styling products for hair colouring, straightening or perming may damage the already weak hair. These commercial products make the scalp oily and cause dandruff.
• Use a hooded jacket or a scarf to cover hair when stepping out. This helps in protecting hair against humidity and strong winds.
• Use a wide-toothed comb to untangle hair for minimal breakage.
• Your diet should be rich in proteins as it helps in the production of keratin, which gives strength to the hair. Protein-rich foods are eggs, fish, meat, milk, beans, nuts, legumes, dark green vegetables, quinoa, etc.
• If you notice unusually high hair fall over a long period, then it is advisable to consult a dermatologist to rule out other factors and begin the right treatment.

Here are some remedies which will help in taking care of your hair and revive its lustre.

1. Herbal oil for scalp massage:

   It is no secret that curry leaves are a tonic to the hair. Abundant in antioxidants and protein, curry leaves keep the hair moist and remove dead follicles. The beta-carotene in it protects against hair loss. Coconut oil penetrative the follicles thereby nourishing hair from the roots as well as the entire length of the hair.

   Method:
   

   Boil few curry leaves in about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Stay away from the flame as leaves might cause spluttering. A black residue like thing forms around the leaves. Strain the oil once it has cooled down. Massage your head with this oil 2-3 times a week before you wash your hair.

2. Aloe vera mask:

   Aloe vera has been touted as the best friend of skin and hair. It has excellent anti-bacterial as well as anti-microbial properties. It is also a rich source of antioxidants and Vitamin E, both of which are essential for hair growth.

   
   
   
   

   Method:
   

   Scoop out the gel from aloe vera plant and run it in the blender to get a smooth paste. Mix the gel with 1 tbsp. castor oil and the yolk of an egg and apply this mixture to your hair. Keep it for about an hour and shampoo your hair. Add some lavender or rosemary oil to remove the smell of egg.

   Alternatively, you can apply a mix of aloe vera and amla pulp (Indian gooseberry) 2-3 times a week. Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and has great nourishing qualities.

3. Hair scrub:

   Your scalp also needs some exfoliation! To make a simple scrub, mix the following ingredients together-

• 1 tbsp. shampoo
• 2 tbsp. brown sugar
• Half tbsp. of coconut oil or olive oil
• Few drops of lavender oil
• Half tbsp. of water.

Shampoo your hair and do not condition it. Flip the hair down and apply the scrub paste in gentle circular motions for about 5 minutes on wet hair. Rinse off with water and condition as usual.

Follow these proven home remedies this monsoon for oiling, conditioning, and exfoliating hair and let us know the number of compliments pouring in!

[Image Credit: beautyhealthtips.in]