Hair type is generally divided into three types: normal hair, dry hair and oily hair. Each of these hair types requires a different type of care and management.
Normal hair tends to be shiny and easy to handle without being greasy. It tends to be a bit wispy a day after setting but remains good looking for about a week. Add to small amount of yogurt, two tablespoons of chickpea flour, and mix thoroughly to form a smooth paste. Apply generously on scalp and hair and leave on for at least half an hour, then rinse off and shampoo as you would normally do. The treatment will give the treated hair a wonderful shine.
Beat an egg and apply to scalp and hair. Leave on for half an hour and shampoo normally. This gives a shine and nourishes the hair with protein. Using henna once a month gives great highlights and keeps the scalp free of dandruff.
Oily hair treatment depends on the extent of the oiliness. This type of hair becomes greasy and dull after a day or two of shampooing and hangs listlessly, allowing the dirt and dust to stick on. The scalp feels sticky and dandruff is an added problem. People with oily hair also have oily skin due to excessive oil secretion.
Oily hair must be washed each three to four days or more frequently if the hair is too greasy. Rinsing with lemon juice helps with oily hair. Adding a tablespoon of cider vinegar in the rinse seems to help oily hair while providing a great shine. If the hair gets oily by the end of the day, it may need a daily washing. If washing daily, use an herbal shampoo.
Shampoos and oils with neem and henna are great for oily hair. A good head massage using herbal oils maintains the pH of the scalp. People with oily hair must avoid greasy foods and eat lots of green and leafy vegetables along with lots of fruit. Always use a mild shampoo and rinse with diluted vinegar.
Perming the hair seems to help as the scalp is aerated, with the hair lifted off the root, limiting sebum dispersal. Cut down on greasy foods and increase the intake of fresh vegetables and fruits. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily to hydrate the body and the scalp.
Dry hair gets brittle and breaks off easily and often the ends are split. Once a week shampooing is usually enough for this type of hair. Massaging the hair with warm olive oil, then covering with a plastic bag and a warm towel helps the oil penetrate and nourish the hair and scalp. After half an hour shampoo normally.
After shampooing and drying the hair, place a couple of drops of safflower oil and rub to coat the palms. Gently massage the hair tips with the palms and work up towards the scalp. The tiny amount of oil will nourish the hair and prevent it from becoming wispy until the next wash.
Our genetics decides the kind of hair we have. Knowing how to treat it can indeed give us that head of glorious hair.