Struggling to deal with the humidity monsoon brings? Don’t worry. If Monica in Barbados is not the look you’re going for this season, we’ve got you! The horrible combination of high temperature and humidity, coupled with random downpours, may take a toll on your spirits but it doesn’t have to, on your mane. So, what is humidity? It is the presence of excessive moisture in the air that is absorbed by the outer layer of your hair, causing it to fluff up or swell. If you’re looking for some tips to deal with the damage that humidity wreaks on your hair, keep reading…
Give your scalp a hot oil massage
Healthy hair begins at the roots and for a healthy scalp, you need to make sure it gets enough nourishment. Try oiling your hair every week if possible. Post oil application, pop a damp towel in the microwave and then wrap that around your hair. This will help the oil to penetrate better and restore and strengthen your hair cuticles. If your scalp is prone to flaking, or if you have fine hair, use lightweight argan oil or antimicrobial castor oil. Jojoba oil is great for chemically processed or coloured hair and olive oil is great to apply on your lengths.
Don’t shampoo your hair too often
Two to three times a week is ideal since this frequency won’t strip your scalp of its natural oils. Also, make sure you are using moisturising shampoo and conditioner formulas to prevent your hair from getting too dry.
Try scarf hairstyles to protect your hair
Word to the wise: Never ever tie up hair that’s wet or damp as dandruff thrives in those conditions. Instead, wait for it to dry and tie it up in protective hairstyles like braids or scarf-wrapped buns.
Detangle your hair every day
Make it a point to remove all the knots from your mane before you go to bed at night. This will prevent your strands from tangling up and breaking. It also helps to distribute the natural oils from the scalp along the lengths of your hair, conditioning and smoothening them. Plus, brushing your hair stimulates the scalp which boosts circulation and hair growth.
Mask weekly
Give your scalp some extra TLC with a hair mask once every week. This gives your mane some added nourishment and smoothing, which ultimately prevents frizz and breakage. Look for a product that has ingredients like coconut, grapeseed, jojoba or avocado oil as well as proteins like keratin and amino acids. If you’re more of a DIY person, soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight. The next day, grind them in a blender and add some curd to make a paste. Apply on the scalp and lengths, and wash off after 30 minutes.