Want Healthy, Shiny Hair? Products to Avoid!

Split ends, frizz, and dull, drab, lifeless locks: all are hallmarks of hair that has been overstressed by heat and chemical treatments.  And if you don’t know what’s in the products you’re using, you could be making the situation worse!  But if you want to beautify one of your best features, you’re going to need to take a long, hard look at the damage you’re doing through the products and processes you undergo.  Luckily, there are plenty of ways to repair your hair.  You just need to start by pinpointing problem products and tossing them in the trash.  Here are a few that should be kicked to the curb as soon as possible!

1. Dyes with bleach.  Bleach is one of the absolute worst products you can put on your hair.  And yet, most hair dyes have at least some amount of bleach included.  Ask you stylist if you can continue to get the same (or similar) color with a bleach-free, chemical-free dye, or try at-home treatments like henna for natural, beautiful color without all the toxic chemicals.
2. Relaxers.  Brazilian blowouts may be the latest craze for ladies seeking super-straight hair, but the formaldehyde will definitely throw a wrench in the works when it comes to keeping your locks lustrous.  The basic lesson here is that pretty much any harsh, chemical treatment is going to turn back the clock on your efforts to keep you hair looking healthy, so try to avoid them if you can.
3. Brushes.  This may sound weird, but whether you use a bristle brush, a paddle version, or one with vents, you may be stressing your hair, especially when it’s wet.  So do yourself a favor and skip the brush.  Opt for a wide-tooth comb instead; it will reduce the rat’s nest without causing the stretching and breakage that frequently occur with brushing.  And if you miss the sensation of a brush on your head, simply take the time when you shower to thoroughly massage your scalp with your fingertips.  This will stimulate blood flow and remove excess oil and dead skin cells.
4. Heating products.  You may have intimate and long-lasting relationships with your hair dryer, hot rollers, and flat iron, but they’re really not doing you any favors.  See if you can find ways to cut back on the amount of heat you subject your hair to and you’ll notice a lot less breakage in the long run.
5. Styling products.  Not surprisingly, anything that you slather on your hair can cause it to become dry and brittle (leading to breakage) as well as leave it looking dull.  But you can get rid of hairsprays, creams, and gels that deposit chemical gunk onto your hair and opt for natural alternatives or even products that incorporate shine.

Of course, there are several products you can add to your routine to restore the shine and resilience you’ve lost through chemical and heat treatments.  Hydrating masks, deep conditioners, and liquid keratin will all give your hair the gloss and bounce you see in commercials, or you can look online for organic, at-home recipes that include items like eggs, mayonnaise, and avocado for an all-natural alternative.
(Guest Post by Carol Montrose)