Limp, lifeless, dull. One could say that our current hair-dos are quite fitting for the times we find ourselves in. I’ve lost track of what level, phase, or restrictions we currently sit in. What I do know is that my hair salon isn’t open, and hasn’t been for quite some time now. I miss everything about it- from the arm restricting apron bibs to the blindingly strong scent of bleach-covered tinfoil. Everyone knows that a DIY scalp massage is a far cry from the magical fingers of the hairdresser and there’s just no resolving that. However, if it’s the fresh-out-of-the-salon shine and bounce you desperately long for, these three steps can help you with just that.
A Hair-Care Ritual
If there was ever a time to teach your hair how to wash itself, it’s now. However, an unexpected encounter on your daily walk will have you instantly regretting your shampoo strike. Plus, carrying around a greasy mop on the top of your head won’t exactly lift your spirits either. We are all now well aware that we shouldn’t shampoo every day. However, what I would recommend is to put in an extra effort on those days that you do shampoo, (at least once a week, please.) Create an evening practice where you really indulge in a bit of hair-care, using a shampoo, conditioner and mask from a brand you trust, such as Moo and Yoo.
Last Thursday evening spent with the ‘Restore and Repair’ bundle from this brand left my head glowingall weekend! The miracle shampoo, conditioner and mask in this bundle each contain natural Marula oil and Icelandic moss protect the hair from the damaging effects of UV exposure and environmental toxins. After blow-drying, my hair felt clean, nourished, soft and bouncy. No, I didn’t have anywhere to show it off, so you best believe I took a few pictures of myself to mark the occasion.
Cold-Rinse
A new addition to my AM routine has been to step out of my shower shivering and gasping for air. In other words, I now finish my shower with cold water. Although it may sound like I’m having an anaphylactic shock each morning, the benefits for the hair is all worth it. Plus, you don’t have to have a full-blown ice bath to reap the rewards, simply rinsing off with a quick, cold blast will do. Why would you put yourself through the pain? Well, cold water closes the hair cuticle and preserves your natural oils which will give you that shine we all seek. It also locks in extra moisture, makes your hair softer, more manageable and resistant to breakage, and preserves hair colour, as hot water can fade hair-dye.
Cold-Blast
Once you’ve accomplished the showering part of the morning, apply the same method when drying your hair too. When your hair is about 90-percent dry, switch to that cold air setting we forgot existed on the hairdryer and give your head a quick, cold blast to finish. It doesn’t have to be any longer than 30 seconds to see results. Cold air seals the cuticles of your hair, which sets your style in place and adds shine. For a more voluminous style, lift sections of hair and aim the cool air at the roots.
Tah-dah! Just like that, you’re ready to turn heads on your trip to Tesco. On a more serious note, not only does this routine actually do wonders to boost spirits, but it will keep your hair lush and silky smooth so you will no longer be as reliant on hairdressers to have you looking your best!
