Some of this information has been taken from
'Canadian Health and Lifestyle, spring 2009.
Does your hair look dull, lifeless unmanageable?
I am going to list the 5 haircare sins that impact the overall health, look and feel of your hair.
1. Using the wrong product for your hair type
Many people are using a haircare product that is not suitable for their hair type. Before selecting a haircare product it is important to determine the overall look and feel. If your hair is dull and dry-looking with brittle ends it needs haircare products that hydrate and add moisture. If you have colour treated hair select haircare products specifically designed for colour treated hair. Don't forget to include a product that protects your hair against the damaging U.V. rays of the sun. If you have oily hair you need products specially designed to keep this type of hair clean and good looking.
2. Over washing your hair
It is important to have a regular haircare regime, but it is also important not to over wash your hair, which strips away essential oils from the scalp, causing it to become dry and irritated resulting in dull looking and unhealthy hair. If you have oily hair, then you should wash your hair daily. However, if your hair tends to be dry then only wash it every second or third day.
3. Wrong application techniques
Too much of a good thing can be bad for you, and too little can be just as bad. To reap the benefits of a shampoo and conditioner is to use the right amount. For short or medium length hair a 2 cm size amount of product is sufficient- more is waistful and causes a residue buildup. For long hair use about 3 cm. Sqeeze the proper amount into the palm of your hand, rub hands together to emulsify it and ensure even product coverage and then rub it into your hair. Always add more water, and not extra shampoo for more suds. To apply conditioner, first squeeze excess water from hair to enable conditioner to better adhere to hair for maximum conditioning.
4. Not conditioning enough
Some people do not use conditioner at all. No matter what your hair type, it is vital to condition every time hair is washed to improve and maintain its health. Using conditioner, even on oily hair, helps improve the overall look and feel since it adds essential moisture back into the hair. Use a wide-toothed comb to comb conditioner through hair to ensure even coverage. If you have oily hair just condition the ends, and keep conditioner away from scalp to prevent the build-up of excess oils.
5. Not rinsing thoroughly
Improper rinsing after washing and conditioning results in limp, dull looking hair that is hard to style and looks dirty within hours.
To ensure all product is gone, give your hair one final rinse with cold water. Cold water helps close hair cuticles and locks in moisture making hair shinier.
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