The monsoon season brings much-needed respite from the scorching heat. However, the humid weather can damage your hair. The most common issue is hairfall. A damp scalp is a breeding ground for bacteria that depletes scalp nutrients and causes the hair to lose its strength. You also experience damp, weighed down hair that looks oily even if it has been washed recently. A reason why it’s important to take special care of your tresses when the rains come down.
BACK TO BASICS
Wash with mild shampoo: Stay away from harsh shampoos that can add to hairfall. Go for mild shampoos with natural ingredients that clean the hair and scalp in a gentle manner.
Eliminate dandruff: Dandruff increases hairfall which is why it is important to get rid of it as soon as possible. Apart from using mild anti-dandruff shampoos, try using home remedies such as warm coconut oil and lemon juice to banish those flakes.
Shampoo more often: Humidity can make your scalp oily and cause bad odour. Avoid this situation by washing your hair more often during the monsoon. It is important to use less shampoo and more water to refresh the scalp. Further, you can mix
rose water and lemon juice in a mug of water for a final rinse that will leave a lingering fragrance.
WHAT TO AVOID
Avoid heat: This includes both heat styling and hot water. As the hair strands and follicles are already weak, heat can exacerbate the problem of breakage. Use lukewarm water and switch your blowdryer to the cool setting to avoid damage. Better yet, let your hair dry naturally or use a soft towel to pat it dry.
Don’t ignore itching: If you have an itchy scalp, check immediately for dandruff. If itching persists even after dandruff treatment, it could be a bacterial or fungal infection caused by excess humidity. In such a case, consult a dermatologist.
Don’t keep oil overnight: Oil kept on for hours on end can clog the pores and cause hair damage. It is a good idea to rinse off the oil in 2-3 hours.
Don’t comb wet hair: Wet hair is prone to breakage and damage. Wait for it to dry before combing.
Stay away from junk food: Try eating healthy during the monsoon and avoid junk food or food that is too spicy. These foods heat up the body and damage your skin and hair internally. Stick to whole grains, fruits, and vegetables for beautiful tresses.
HOME REMEDIES
For itching: Add 1 tbsp vinegar to a mug of water and use as an after-shampoo rinse. This decreases the itching caused due to humidity.
For bad odour: Add half a cup of rose-water to a mug of water and rinse your hair to prevent bad odour. You can also use lemon.
For shine: Boil used tea leaves. Cool and strain. Then add juice of a lemon and use as an after-shampoo rinse to add shine and body to limp hair.
Quick take
Make a routine that works for you. A mild shampoo, conditioner or leave-in cream adds a protective layer. Finally, cover your head if you step out in rain
(by Shahnaz Husain, herbal beauty doyenne)
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