January is one big hangover. You wake up after New Year’s Eve and wonder what to do with yourself; tired and a bit lost.
December was one big party. Event after event after event… Only now that you’ve had time to pause do you realise how in need of recovery you are.
Magazines and the internet are full of advice on how to rejuvenate and renew yourself after the hectic sociable season, but have you ever considered the same for your hair?
A month of heating, styling or hair extensions on top of harsh winter weather can leave your hair feeling dry, dull and a bit lifeless. And if you love a good drink during ‘the season to be jolly,’ your hair can become just as dehydrated as your skin. With moisturisation being the key to healthy hair, it’s not hard to imagine why it can be left looking a bit worse for wear come January.
So if you think you’ve got a case of hangover hair, just follow these simple tips to infuse lacklustre locks with the much-needed nourishment that they crave.
Hair Oils
Hair oils are amazing. They’re one of the quickest ways to boost your hair with intense moisture and leave it feeling softer and looking healthier.
There are plenty to choose from: coconut, macadamia, almond… I personally love using argan oil which is rich in vitamin E and fatty acids – two ingredients that work wonders for moisturising hair.
Leave-in Treatments
To keep your hair healthier in the long run, use a repairing hair mask twice a week to give it a deep condition.
You can use these after shampooing, or go for one that can be left in overnight so you don’t have to stand around waiting for it to work in the shower.
Simply towel dry your hair and apply to the lengths, then let it dry naturally.
Professional Fix
At-home treatments and products are great for keeping your hair in good condition, but every now and again it’s nice to sit back and let someone else do the work. Or, if your hair is in particularly bad condition, it’s a good idea to get a professional’s opinion.
Stephen Young Salon in Raynes Park offers a range of brilliant treatments from Nano-Keratin Replenish Smooth to the Kérastase Fusio Dose that revives hair, leaving it moisturised with a healthy shine. Wimbledon’s biggest party girl swears by it.
Heat Protection
To avoid any further damage to your hair, try to limit heat styling. If you must use your straighteners though, don’t forget to protect your locks first with a spritz of heat protection spray.
Brush Daily
A simple trick that only takes a few seconds: brush your hair daily. This will distribute natural hair oils from the roots down to the tips. No product needed!
Consider Your Diet
Water – just as good for your hair as it is for your skin. But when you’re really busy, it can be hard to remember something as simple as staying hydrated. Top up your daily intake by keeping a bottle by your desk.
Eating oily fish will also give you the soft and shiny locks you desire. If you’re not a fan of fish though, try taking Omega oil capsules instead.
Don’t Follow Rules
Well, one particular rule. When it comes to how often you should wash your hair, there are no rules. You have to do what feels best for your hair type.
If you have fine hair that tends to become greasy easily, you may need to wash your hair more often than someone with coarser, curlier hair. Find what works best for you.
Keep up these good hair habits and your locks will be bouncing out of recovery month and straight into the month of love looking divine – just in time!
Written by Sunna Naseer
Instagram: @sunna_naseer
Twitter: @Sunna_Naseer
Facebook: @inspiredinthecity
