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Summer just ended. Your strands may be fried from chlorine use or sun overexposure. Have you been drinking enough water? And, is drinking water enough to hydrate frazzled locks?
After years of swim team and lifeguarding, you’d think I’d know how to keep my thick hair hydrated. From leave-in conditioners and avoiding hair dye like the plague, I tried my best. Yet, every summer, my previously healthy head of hair devolved into frazzled strands.
My strands were crying out for attention and care. I decided to take matters into my own hands and research how to revamp my hair routine. Here are a few tips for doing the most to revive and sustain your stylish shine.
Hydration and Hair
Typically, we think of hair hydration as a deep condition or hair mask. Yet, drinking enough water is proven to make hair shine. Hair is made up of ¼ water.
Drinking water and still not getting that glisten? You may not be drinking enough. Two to three liters of water per day is recommended for best results, according to the Mayo Clinic.
- For men, 3.7 liters of water per day is recommended.
- For women, 2.7 liters of water per day is recommended.
When getting water through food, choose juicy fruits and veggies like tomatoes, watermelon, and spinach. Increasing intake of essential minerals like magnesium promotes cell regeneration. Snacking on whole foods will give you the glean you crave.
To Brush or Comb? It’s Actually About Sebum
Does it matter if you use a brush versus a comb? It’s said that brushes can dull your natural shine, especially if you have curly hair. One 2009 study associated over-brushing with hair loss for women. Believe it or not, it's the health of your scalp that defines hair health.
Sebum is the natural conductor of scalp love and care. It’s the oil your scalp produces to maintain moisture. That's why it’s essential to be gentle when using hair products and brushing. Choose sulfate-free products to nourish and protect your scalp.
Massage your scalp gently when shampooing, rather than a vigorous scrub. Scalp massage stimulates hair growth and thickness. A wide-tooth comb may be better for your hair than brushing, especially if you comb through your scalp. This stimulates the subcutaneous tissue and enhances blood flow.
Nourish with Vital Nutrients
Omega 3’s and antioxidants, and vitamins–specifically vitamin A–can improve the health of your scalp and hair.
Sweet potatoes are high in vitamin A, which helps with sebum production. From one serving of sweet potatoes, you receive 156% of your daily recommended vitamin A intake. Keep the peel on for added antioxidant benefits (rivaling blueberries).
Berries, fruits, nuts, and vegetables have the highest amount of antioxidants.
Though diet is always the best way to absorb nutrients, don’t shy away from adding an omega-3 supplement. Foods high in omega 3’s include fish, nuts, flaxseed, and chia seeds. Omega 6 fatty acids are also beneficial to hair health. According to Harvard Medical School, omega-6s are beneficial for you when consumed in a lower ratio to omega-3s. Sources of omega 6s include tofu, walnuts, and vegetable oils. Walnuts are high in both omega 3&6.
No wonder my mom made me take fish oil supplements and always got me to eat baked sweet potatoes. She must’ve been onto something because my hair is thick!
Biotin
Biotin, or vitamin B7, is helpful for hair loss and brittle or uncombable hair. In a 2016 study, biotin deficiency was found in 38% of women suffering from hair loss. Biotin affects hair, nails, and skin, and is available in select IV Drips plus Boosts at Restore.
The Science Behind Shiny Hair
Hair has a hydrophobic outer layer and an inner cortex that craves liquid nourishment. When hydrated, hair bestows shine and body. And IV Drip Therapy may add to that shimmer.
A benefit of IV hydration is that it delivers vitamins and hydration to your hair all at once. Getting a drip can help compensate for dehydration and insensible losses–many of which you may not be aware of. The average adult loses up to 800mL per day from the respiratory system, skin, and stool. Restore offers a biotin boost IV wellness drip that can help.
I can say my hair has finally bounced back from the years of benign neglect. Though love has many twists and turns, I know what my hair loves and needs to be truly happy: self-care through hydration and nutrients.
Try an IV Drip to restore your hair to its ultimate health, and begin your own (self) love story.
