The arrival of the monsoons in India brings a welcome respite from the scorching summer heat. But for our hair, it's a different story. The sudden increase in humidity can wreak havoc, leaving us with frizzy, unmanageable strands and a concerning amount of breakage.
Fear not, fellow Indian hair warriors!
Here's a comprehensive guide with tips and tricks to keep your mane healthy and happy during the monsoon season.
Avoid harsh, daily washing. Aim for 2-3 washes every week with a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that cleanses the scalp without stripping away essential oils.
Once a month, use a clarifying shampoo to remove product buildup and prevent scalp issues that can worsen during monsoon.
Treat your hair to deep conditioning treatments once a week. Apply a generous amount of a rich conditioner or hair mask, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Don't underestimate the power of leave-in conditioners. Look for lightweight formulas with ingredients like shea butter, coconut or argan oil to provide long-lasting hydration and frizz control.
Coconut oil is a hero ingredient for Indian hair. Apply a small amount (start with a pea-sized amount and adjust based on your hair type) to damp hair, focusing on the ends to prevent dryness and split ends.
If coconut oil isn't your jam, explore other natural oils like almond, olive, or jojoba oil. These offer similar benefits without feeling heavy.
Cotton pillowcases can be rough on hair, causing frictionand frizz. Upgrade to a silk or satin pillowcase to minimize tangles and promote smoother strands.
Serums and sprays with ingredients coat the hair shaft, creating a barrier against humidity and keeping frizz at bay.
On particularly humid days, embrace headbands, scarves, or hair clips to keep your hair up and prevent frizz from taking hold.Gentle Styling Techniques
Minimize using heat-styling tools like straighteners or curling irons. If you must use them, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand and use the lowest heat setting
Whenever possible, let your hair air dry naturally. If you need to speed up the process, use a diffuser attachment on your hairdryer set on the low heat setting.
Replace your regular bath towel with a microfiber towel for drying your hair. Microfiber towels are gentler on hair, absorbing excess moisture without causing roughness or frizz.
Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall health, and your hair is no exception. Aim to drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to keep your hair hydrated and prevent breakage.
Eat a balanced diet with essential nutrients like protein, vitamins A, C, and E, and iron. These contribute to healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.
[Bonus Tip: Sometimes, the best way to deal with monsoon hair is to work with it! Opt for braids, buns, or updos hairstyles for a naturally frizz-friendly hair day. These styles will keep your hair manageable while adding a touch of style.]
Remember, consistency is key! So, embrace the pitter-patter of raindrops, knowing your mane is ready to conquer the monsoon.
