Dry hair solutions

Q - I’ve tried using many different types of conditioners to treat my damaged hair, but it’s still dry and brittle. Is there any way I can undo this damage?

It’s important to first determine the cause of your dry, brittle hair.

Some of the most common causes are: Sun damage, pollution, hair colouring, chemical treatments like straightening, relaxing and perming, and heat-damage from styling tools, such as curling and flat irons. However, chronic dryness can also be a sign of another underlying medical problem. If conditioning treatments don’t improve your hair’s moisture level it may be best to see your doctor.



Typical signs of dry hair include: Brittleness, coarseness, frizz and dullness.

Follow these guidelines to revive your damaged hair:

• Shampoo 2-3 times a week, not daily. Washing your hair too often, especially with a harsh shampoo, will only strip away the elements that keep your locks moist. If your hair is dry, try washing it just two or three times a week using mild shampoo and conditioner, like Origins Knot Free Shampoo and Conditioner (RM43 each).

While shampooing, massage your scalp to stimulate the follicles and loosen dandruff or dirt that may be clogging your pores. When conditioning, be sure to cover all portions of your hair adequately and leave it in for several minutes. This will ensure that every strand is conditioned.

• Seal in the moisture. Microwave a teaspoon of Origins Organic Hair Oil (RM100) for a minute before applying it to your hair. The heat from the oil will open up your hair shafts, allowing it to penetrate and condition your hair further. Alternatively, apply the oil, then put on a plastic shower cap and wait for 15 minutes before rinsing with lukewarm water so the moisture in your hair shafts stay sealed.

• Avoid brushing and using heated styling appliances when your hair is wet. Instead, gently towel dry your hair, then slick on a serum that’s designed to seal in moisture and protect your hair from further breakage.

• Minimise your exposure to the sun and wind, and chlorinated water. You can reduce the damage being done to your hair by wearing a hat while outdoors and using a swimming cap in the pool.

• Load up on Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help keep your follicles healthy and your hair shiny. To get your fill of these hairloving nutrients, add more salmon, fish oil, walnuts and flax seeds to your meals.

• Trim your hair regularly. Dry or naturally brittle hair is more prone to developing split ends, so if it’s been a while since you’ve had a trim, it may be time to pencil