Fashion and Beauty Friday – Summer Hair Remedies

Summer is here and in full swing…heat and even quite a bit of humidity lately for us Phoenicians.  The sun, heat, humidity, and chlorine that this time of year brings can leave your hair not looking its best.  I thought I would share some tips and remedies to help keep your hair healthy or repair damages that you might have.

First of all, the easiest way to maintain healthy hair is from the inside out, starting with a healthy diet.  Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, especially this time of year!  Your hair needs moisture from water, but it will also become more moisturized from organic butter and oil in your diet.  Hair is made up of protein and eating natural meats, fish, and dairy products while decreasing carbs can actually improve scalp conditions, like dandruff.

If you are swimming a lot this summer, here are a few tips to keep in mind when dealing with chlorine.  Before you get into chlorinated water, rinse your hair with clean water.  This will keep it from absorbing as much chlorine.  Rinse your hair as soon as possible after getting out of chlorinated water to lessen the amount that is absorbed into your hair and scalp.  Using a mild shampoo and conditioner after swimming will help remove the chlorine and replace moisture to your hair.

There are many different homemade masks for your hair from different parts of the world that focus on nourishing your hair.  If you have noticed the summer taking a toll on your hair, try a weekly mask.  Apply it freshly made, leave on for about 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water and a mild shampoo.  Here are a few of my favorite:

1.  The Mediterranean mask is great if your hair/scalp has spent a little too long in the sun.  Just mix egg yolks and honey.  This mixture will sooth your scalp while conditioning your hair from the roots.

2.  The Philippine mask is used to repair split ends.  Just apply a mixture of extra-virgin coconut oil and palm wine (or cognac).

3.  The Russian mask prevents dandruff and gives hair shine and softness.  Use yogurt or buttermilk and let soak.

4.  The Ayurvedic mask improves dry hair.  Use equal amounts of lemon juice and olive oil to give instant shine.

Hope you find these helpful!  Please let me know if you try any of them out and what you think!  Do you have any helpful hints or remedies that you use on your hair?