Featured image: Element5 Digital (Pexels)
With many of us having a bit more time on our hands, now might just be as good a time as any to give your hair a bit of TLC.
Did you know that human hair is naturally self-sustaining?
“The hair on our heads is called terminal hairs due to its definitiveness and maturity. It contains follicles which produce sebum – our hair’s own natural oils,” Stephnie-Anne Dickinson, head of training at Optiphi explains.
Modern society has us pining over shampoo and conditioner but using harsh chemicals sometimes found in shampoos and conditioners every day can strip your hair of its natural oils which is essential in preventing the buildup of dirt, healthy and self-conditioned hair. This, in turn, could lead to dry, fragile and damaged hair.
Stephnie-Anne shares a few shampoo and conditioner alternatives you can try at home to help restore your hair to its natural glory:
Shampoo alternatives
The power of tea
Soaking tea in hot water and massaging it into your scalp is amazing at cleansing your hair. You decide on the benefits and scent with every wash. Black tea blends add gloss and boost hair colour, while chamomile tea softens the strands and rooibos tea is enriched with minerals that fight dandruff and relieve any scalp irritation.
Reduce breakage with egg yolk
If you struggle with damaged hair then egg yolk is important in your weekly wash. Protein, found in an egg, is fundamental in your hair structure and reduces breakage. Massage a broken egg through wet hair, allow the magic to happen for 3-5 minutes and rinse off with cold water.
Make your own hair treatment
Aloe is antibacterial, antiseptic, softening and moisturizing. Most importantly, it’s aligning with Optiphi’s fundamental concept of enhancing cellular rejuvenation. Aloe gel makes for a really great treatment between washes. Apply to hair for 5-10 minutes and rinse well with lukewarm water.
Conditioner alternatives
Coconut oil
Natural coconut oil is packed with vitamins E and K which have powerful deep conditioning properties. Lather your hair with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Once applied, wrap in a towel and allow it to set in for an hour while you do your chores or work at home. Rinse well with the recommended alternative.
Make your own hair rinse
Apple cider vinegar does not only have effective weight loss benefits but also balances the alkalinity in your hair. It also constricts hair cuticles to allow for longer strands. Pour a half a cup of apple cider vinegar over your hair, lather well and rinse off with water.
