Flattering Styles for Every Shape of Face

OVAL Shape Face





This facial shape can wear bobbed, layered, long or short, just about any style.



SQUARE Shape Face





Soften the edges of a square shaped face by directing soft wavy bangs down over your temples. Long hair should fall to, or past shoulders. For a short style, keep hairstyle round and soft with height at the crown.



ROUND Shape Face




Keep the sides close to the face and promote height at the crown. A layered shag is the perfect style, but if you prefer to wear your hair shoulder length or longer, be sure you wear a side, not centre part.



DIAMOND Shape Face




To balancing your narrow chin, try a rounded shape with fullness at the chin.
Wide wispy bangs help to create an oval look. A good choice is a graduated bob that falls to the chin



PEAR Shape Face



Focus on a full crown at top to create symmetry with the wide jaw. If you are wearing a style with length, tuck your hair behind your ear to slim your cheeks. An ideal length should not pass the neckline. Longer hair will only accentuate the width of your jaw.



HEART Shaped Face





Heart shape faces are flattered by a softer, curlier style. Chin length is perfect, as you need to create the illusion of width around your narrow chin. You can also try a feathered bang, swept to the side



RECTANGLE Shaped Face




This facial shape needs width and volume. Precision cut styles like the Wedge are flattering, and so is long hair in a full style that falls at, or above the shoulder. Bangs look great when just touching the brows and help to shorten a long shaped face.

Alopecia in Women

Hair loss in women can be transient (synonyms = temporary/telogen effluvium/non-genetic) or permanent (genetic/androgenetic alopecia).
Alopecia, or hair loss, can occur in any body area but is particularly noticeable when it affects the scalp.
Hair loss can be temporary or permanent.
Alopecia is not always associated with ill health, but it may cause embarrassment.

Causes
Alopecia in women may be attributed to three factors: aging, hormones, and genetics.

Patchy hair loss is usually due to alopecia areata, an autoimmune skin disease, which causes that cause bald patches to appear on the scalp. Areata is Latin for "round" or "circumscribed", which means that people suddenly see bald spots here or there, or little, tiny short hairs that are broken off.

In alopecia areata, the affected hair follicles are mistakenly attacked by a person's own immune system (white blood cells), resulting in the arrest of the hair growth stage. Alopecia areata usually starts with one or more small, round, smooth bald patches on the scalp and can progress to total scalp hair loss (alopecia totalis) or complete body hair loss (alopecia universalis).



If the hair loss has any unusual features-suddenly a lot of hair is coming out, if hair is coming out in a bizarre or unusual pattern, even if it's very severe, premature general thinning of the scalp, see a dermatologist.




Female Pattern Baldness
Generalized hair loss is normal in elderly women as a result of menopause. After the hormonal changes of menopause, many women find that the hair on the head is thinner, while facial hair is coarser. In women, usually the degree of hair loss is not as extensive as it is in the male population. The most common cause of alopecia in women is oversensitivity to the hormone testosterone, producing a characteristic pattern of hair loss. Women with older female family members who endured thinning of the hair are more likely themselves to be subjected to androgenetic alopecia. In the Jan. 30 Science magazine, researchers revealed that the gene harbours a mutation in family members afflicted with alopecia universalis.

Treatment Options

Women seeking treatment options for alopecia should stick to treatment options approved by the established medical community. Consult a dermatologist who will probably be able to diagnoses alopecia areata by the appearance of your scalp.

One medication, which has been approved, by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat female pattern baldness is Minoxidil, used topically on the scalp. Minoxidil (Rogaine for women) has been proven to show minimal improvements in 50 percent of women and moderate improvements in 13 percent. Minoxidil requires a twice a day application of either the 2-percent or 5 percent solutions. Any gain achieved with Minoxidil will be lost if the patient stops using the product.


Corticosteroids

Injected into the hairless patches may be effective in promoting re-growth. If your scalp has patchy scarring, you may need a skin biopsy to diagnose the underlying cause. Scarred areas may be treated with topical corticosteroids or antifungal drugs, but if the damage is severe and has affected the hair follicles, it is unlikely that new hair will grow.

Hair weaving, hairpieces, or change of hairstyle

Hair weaving, hairpieces, or change of hairstyle may disguise hair loss and cosmetically improve your appearance. This is often the least expensive and safest method of treating female pattern baldness.

Suturing of hairpieces to the scalp is not recommended as it can result in scars, infections, and abscess of the scalp. The FDA because of the high rate of infection has banned the use of hair implants made of artificial fibres.

At all costs, you must avoid hair loss treatment methods, such as shampoos or pills that promise miracle cures for hair loss.

Top 10 Basic Hair Care Tips

Hair are a reflection of your health & personality. If taken care off they can add to your beauty. Your hair and scalp needs proper care now and always. A sign of neglect over a period of time will show up in form of dry brittle hair, split-ends, hair fall, dandruff etc. From the moment you wake up to the time you go to sleep and even as you sleep, there are many factors that can lead to hair breakage. Follow these tips every time you think about having beautiful shining hair.







Diet: A well-balanced diet, rich in silica, calcium and iron, will help reduce or prevent hair loss. Green, leafy vegetables, especially sea vegetables, are good mineral sources. Raw oats provide silica. Eat plenty of iron-rich foods, like liver (Avoid if you are pregnant) and other organ meat, whole grain cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, dates, and raisins. The hair is comprised mostly of protein, therefore to encourage hair growth, adhere to a diet rich in protein. A recommended diet for this purpose includes calves liver, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, and two tablespoons of granulated lecithin. Along with protein, these foods are also high in B vitamins, an important nutrient for hair. Silica is found in the outer coverings of potatoes, green and red peppers and cucumbers. Bean sprouts are also high in silica. Eat whole foods including sprouts. Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron. Include a good serving of fruits and vegetables in your diet. Vitamin E is important for healthy hair growth. Eat avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil on a regular basis. If hair loss is due to thyroid dysfunction, eat more foods rich in vitamin A and iodine. Eat vegetables such as carrots or spinach in unrefined, cold-pressed seed oils such as flax, walnut or pumpkin seed and sea salt. Take turnips, cabbage, mustard, soy beans, peanuts, pine nuts and millet if there is a deficiency of iodine.



Washing Routine: Your hair-type will determine your cleansing routine, some of you may need to shampoo daily, others every other day, others even once a week. The water you use to wash your hair should neither be too hot, or too cold. Use your fingertips, and never your nails, to gently scrub your scalp. Be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly in order to get all of the soap out and then maximize the shine.







Combing: To begin with combing, first separate hair into small sections. Untangle your hair with a wide-tooth comb, carefully work from the ends in a downward direction only. Use only a wooden or tortoise shell comb – never rubber. Do not pull or yank hair. Brush hair only when dry. Hair is weakest when it is wet and brushing can easily damage it. Even when hair is dry always comb before brushing.






Drying: Air-dry whenever possible. Try to minimize the use of blow dryer as the strong heat tends to damage the hair, also the moisture lost makes them look rough and lifeless. Give your hair a break from that blow dryer, those curling irons and so many perms. When you are kind to your hair, it rewards you by looking and feeling better. Choose a hairstyle that will let your hair fall naturally.

If possible, wash your hair leaning over a basin or the bath, so that blood circulation is increased around your scalp and hair roots. Continue this by gently massaging your head with your fingertips while shampooing, begin at the nape of the neck and use the pads of your fingertips, keep your nails well clear and don't use your entire hand. Gently rotate your scalp (not your hair) with circular movements, traveling towards the crown of your head. Do this in a slow gentle fashion for a couple of minutes. Next exert a little more pressure as you move towards your hairline. At the same time use the thumbs to move over your ears towards the temples. Take your time and relax and enjoy your shampooing ritual, you will feel the benefit after you have finished. After shampooing rinse your hair well, then pat your hair dry with a towel as opposed to rubbing it with the towel.


Environment: Before going out to the beach or pool, comb conditioner through the hair. This helps to protect hair from the sun, chlorine, salt water, and from the sun's heat, and serves as a deep conditioning treatment. Wear a hat, cap or scarf if you can to protect hair from over-exposure to the sun, salt or chlorinated water, wind and air pollution.




Trimming: Get your hair trimmed on a regular basis (approximately every two months). This is especially important for growing out layers and/or bangs to reshape and make each stage of growing hair out a style.









Shampoo & Conditioning: Choose simple, cheap shampoos that promise only to wash away the dirty and the oil. The more complicated the formula is and the more expensive the shampoo the less it does good in your hair. Conditioners, are an invention of the cosmetic industry and if your hair is dried out and dull looking you have been abusing it. Use a milder shampoo and try washing your hair less frequently. Also, always apply conditioner from the ears down – never condition the scalp. Do not over-condition for it might cause the cuticle layer of hair to lift making hair brittle and leading to breakage. Some of today's new line of shampoos have a special ingredient advertised as a hair thickener as well as a shampoo that will make your hair look thicker. These shampoos actually coat each strand of hair with a layer of protein each time you use it thus making the hair appear thicker. These shampoos are really very good and can have quite a beneficial effect on most women. Always Check the label on the back of the shampoo or conditioner to see what it contains before using it. Look out for urea, lactic acid and lecithin.





Styling: Your hair style is a reflection of your personality and a wonderful way to express your individuality. All too often conventional styling products contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals. These ingredients are used to keep the hair in place and to give the appearance of shiny healthy hair. In the case of these mass-marketed products the look achieved is only surface deep and they tend to damage the hair. Choose styling products which will make your hair look great, and impart essential botanicals and vitamins to each strand.




Sleep Pattern: Comb your hair before going to bed, do not let the bands or clips on. Even the way you sleep can affect your hair. Restless sleepers may actually be breaking hair as they sleep.If you’re a restless sleeper, try a satin pillowcase so that the hair glides when you move in your sleep. On regular cotton cases hair can get caught and break. Putting hair up to sleep is also helpful. Hair should be put in a ponytail on top of the head. Always use rubber bands that are rapped in cloth.






Check for products used: Some of you might have scalp problems such as seborrhea dermatitis, or dandruff therefore look in your local store and get a product that is designed for these problems and read the directions carefully and this should solve your scalp problems. Before buying a new product try using a sachet and watch its effect on your hair, has it lead to unwanted hair-fall etc and once you are sure then only buy it for regular use. You can also consult a dermatologist who will help you in choosing the right kind of product for your hair. Before using a dye test it by applying it to a small area on the arm. If a patch of inflammation has developed, the dye must not be used on the hair. Bleaching the hair repeatedly with hydrogen peroxide may make them brittle. If this happens the hair may turn rough, develop split ends, or become thinned or shortened.




Patience and proper maintenance is the key, to hair care. It is VERY important to trim split ends as the need arises. Eat a well-balanced diet, work out and supplement your diet with our vitamins, which are specifically designed to help balance your hair. Remember that hair is a man-made fiber and is a natural reflection of your health and well being. So if you are unhealthy to your body, your hair will lack the look you desire. Treat your body with care, follow a proper hair care program and supplement your diet with balancing vitamins and a drop of patience and your hair will look and feel great.

10 Tips For Top Hair

Your hair reflects the state of your inner health and well being. An unhealthy diet and lifestyle, tiredness and stress all take their toll on your hair.



Banish Split Ends

By having your hair trimmed regularly. Use a wide – toothed comb rather than a brush on wet hair and don’t overheat your hair when blow- drying – use a nozzle and direct the hot air parallel to the hair shaft rather than directly on the hair. Click here, for split end treatment.


To Treat Dandruff

Choose a naturally based product and avoid any that contain metal oxides. Rinse your hair well after a dandruff treatment and avoid touching the scalp as it may be more prone to picking up infection.


Good – Quality Hairbrush

Always use a good – quality hairbrush. Poor – quality brushes and combs will scratch the scalp and damage the hair shaft. Don’t over brush your hair since this will stimulate sebum production, encouraging oily hair, breakages and spilt ends.



Brush Your Hair Before Washing

It to massage the scalp and help loosen dead skin cells.


Nerve Use Hotter Than A Medium Heat When Blow- Drying

Finish blow–drying with a blast of cold air to close the cuticles – when cuticles lie flat, hair reflects the light and looks healthier and shiner.





Colour Your Hair

If you colour your hair, try to avoid non-organic dyes, especially peroxides. Temporary colours can be easily washed in and out at home – some lasting for just one shampoo, others for up to 12 washes.


Avoid Over-Drying Colour

Treated hair with dryers, heated rollers or curling tongs. Let naturally if possible.


Consider Letting Your Natural Graying / Silvering Hair Colour Come Through?

If you are of’ a certain, why not forget about colorants and consider letting your natural graying / silvering hair colour come through? Perhaps make a fresh start and have you hair cut in a shorter style to remove all the damaged, discolored and mistreated hair, Jump before you are pushed!


Try Conditioning Your Hair

With inexpensive natural ingredients such as eggs yolks (for normal to dry hair), egg whites (for oily or balanced hair), or a strong herbal infusion of camomile (for oily or balanced hair).


Protect Colour

Treated hair against the effects of sun, and swimming pools. Wear a hat or scarf in hot sun, wear a swimming cap or really a conditioner to act as a barrier against chlorine. Always shampoo hair immediately after swimming.



Hair Boosters

Nourish your hair with these simple, vitamin-rich treats

Salad Feasts - Enjoy griddled peppers drizzled with olive oil; raw vegetables dipped in guacamole; baby leaves drizzled with lime juice and walnut oil, sprinkled with walnuts; grated carrot with lemon juice.



Golden Fruit -
Make a salad of yellow-fleshed fruits such as apricots, oranges, peaches, melons, mangoes and grapefruit.



Snacks - An avocado, pitted and drizzled with olive oil; and the occasional handful of mixed nuts such as walnut and almonds.

Daily Hair Care

REGULAR HAIR CARE

An effective hair-care involves cleansing, toning and conditioning routines carried out regularly.


An important aspect of effective care is the use of proper hair-care products. Different types of hair need different hair-care products. The use of wrong products is detrimental to the hair.


After cleansing, the scalp and hair need toning exercise. The toning of scalp and hair is achieved by gently massaging the head. This helps in stimulating and invigorating the blood circulation required for the healthy growth of hair.


Brushing the hair regularly is important both to free it of dust, dead cells and tangles and to stimulate the scalp. A brush which has bristles with rounded tips is best, since it is less likely to scratch the scalp or tear and split the hair. Also the best brush has boar and nylon bristles - the boar bristles carry oil and help moisturize hair, while the nylon ones gently exfoliates the scalp. The key to a good stroke is in brushing the hair from nape of the neck towards the crown of the head.

The most important part of hair-care is conditioning. It is a restorative routine. If the hair is excessively stripped of moisture or oil due to harsh cleansing, sun or application of harsh chemicals such as perm lotions, etc., the conditioning routine aims at restoring and correcting the imbalance. Conditioning products are especially useful for long hair, where the overlapping scales which cover the outer layer of hair often get roughed up as it grows. Usually, dry hair should be conditioned once a week, normal hair once a fortnight and oily hair not more than once a month. All conditioners are mainly a combination of oils or waxes, detergents and emulsifiers, with optional extra ingredients, often incorporating herbal extracts with gentle plant and vegetable oils and essences.



It is important to dry the hair correctly and in a natural way. It can be easily damaged when wet. The head should be wrapped in a clean towel for a few minutes to remove excess moisture. Rubbing with the towel should be avoided. For wet hair a comb is preferable as brushing may stretch and tear the hair. The best way to dry hair naturally is finger drying. In case of a hair dryer, always use it on the coolest setting, since heat dries out the hair. Over drying does the most damage, so avoid holding the dryer over one area for too long, stop drying hair a little before it feels completely dry and avoid using attachments like nozzles as they concentrate the heat too much. Lemon juice after rinsing acts as a natural setting lotion.


Hair can be damaged by over-exposure to the sun. The sun dries the hair, makes it dull, causes breakage and frays the ends. Hair damaged by the sun is weak and unhealthy. Hence, it is important to protect the hair from the sun by covering it with a scarf etc.


Choose shampoo according to your hair type. For example, use a rich shampoo with conditioner and moisturizer for dry hair, a mild shampoo with conditioner for normal hair, a mild shampoo with adequate conditioner for combination hair, and a lemon and egg shampoo for greasy hair.


To avoid scalp infections, avoid the use of other’s towel or comb. Make it a point to regularly clean your towels and combs.



Do not tie or pull back hair back tightly with pins, hair or rubber-bands. Also, try and avoid undue use of rollers, curlers, crimpers or go in for perms which tend to weaken the hair.

Hair Loss

Nothing alarms women more than to be confronted with the problem of hair loss.

There are number of causes underlined as reason for hair loss:
(a) Heredity.
(b) Hormonal sensitivity.

EXTERNAL FACTORS
(a) Styles that pull on hair for instance a ponytail, plait, or bun that`s too tightly kept in place. Even frequently tugging on hair or nervously twisting may have the same outcome.

(b) Over-Zealous Brushing:- Especially with a brush made of plastic or metal.

(c) Traumatizing wet hair:- Using hair dryers or styling wet hair can break hair. Ideally towel-dry hair to get out the extra water, allow it to dry naturally.

(d) Avoid frequent use of heated, rollers and curling tongs for their can result in excessive loss of hair`s natural oils and moisture, causing them to become brittle and break-prone.

(e) Subjecting hair to processes like bleaching dyeing or perming can lead to alter in molecular structure of hair.

(f) Use of harsh shampoos:- can make hair dry and brittle causing it to break off.

The hair loss caused by a number of above causes is not permanent as the roots have not been damaged. They will sprout new hair and it will grow back to its normal strength and thickness once the cause is removed and the hair thereafter treated with care. If sudden, extensive hair loss occurs, medical attention should be sought immediately.



TIPS ON MANAGING HAIR LOSS
The first step in the management of hair loss lies in the identification of the cause and need to seek professional guidance.

If scalp infection is the cause, it can be externally treated by the use of medicated hair tonics and ointments, prescribed to control infection and restore health to the hair.

Brushing of hair should be gentle. Use a brush with natural bristles to avoid tearing the hair. You can also use a nylon brush with smooth rounded bristles.

Avoid excessive brushing, for it might pull the hair, causing breakage. The perming lotion remains on hair for too long, many more of the chemical bonds might be broken, leaving the hair structurally weakened.

Avoid using harsh shampoos, which might again leave the hair dry and brittle. The damage could be greateris you already possess "dry" hair and do not top it off with a conditioner.

Avoid vigorous scalp massage, for it will lead to further hair loss.

With a constant care and attention you can achieve luxuriant hair by choosing products formulated for your hair type.

Hair Problem

SPLIT ENDS
Split ends are caused when hair is damaged, either by harsh shampoos, too much direct from the sun or a hair dryer, perming or bleaching or very often simply because the tips of hair are very old.

The only cure for split ends is to have them trimmed off; if left, they may split further up the hair, making it look dull and lifeless.


HEALTHY HAIR: In top condition, the scaly outer shell, or cuticle, of each hair lies flat and smooth along the whole length of the shaft.



Split End Treatments:

Mix 1 tsp honey with 2 Tbsp olive oil, then beat in 1 egg yolk. Massage on hair in small sections. Wrap head with shower cap for 30 minutes. Rinse and shampoo.

Massage hair and scalp with warm avocado or olive oil. Wrap hair securely in a towel. Leave oil on hair about 8 hours or overnight. If left on overnight, put a shower cap over head to avoid staining pillows and bedding. Wash hair, then rinse with a vinegar /water solution.

Hot Oil Treatment
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup boiling water

Place olive oil and boiling water into large glass bottle or jar with a lid. You may need to wrap a towel around the bottle to avoid burning yourself. Shake very well until oil is emulsified. Massage into hair, taking care not to burn your head. Put a shower cap or plastic bag over your hair and wrap your head in a hot towel that has been soaked in hot water then wrung out. Leave mixture on your hair for 1/2 hour, then shampoo as usual.




VERY-GREASY HAIR
Mainly due to hormonal problem, the sebaceous glands tend to become overactive and produce too much sebum.

Tips on managing Greasy hair:-

Avoid too much brushing of hair because it might further stimulate the oil glands that are already over-active.

Wash your hair every third or fourth day or even more frequently, depending on individual comfort. A good nourishing liquid shampoo is often the best answer.

Excessive oiliness if neglected can lead to falling hair. If treated in time it can be prevented.

Wear your hair in easy-to-manage, well cut style. Light perming can help as it lifts the hair slightly away from the scalp, making it less easy for the sebum to travel up the hair shaft.


VERY -DRY HAIR
May result from hereditary or hormonal problems-or due to a result of damage caused by over-use of heated rollers, hot hair dryers, perms and bleaches.

You can protect your hair:

By using very mild shampoos and good quality conditioners.

By having them trimmed regularly.

By going in for once-weekly hot oil treatment. Use warm olive or almond oil and massage it carefully into the scalp and hair.

Leave the oil on overnight, if possible, by covering the hair with a plastic bath cap and a toweling turban. Wash the oil off the next day by applying diluted shampoo directly to the scalp before applying water.

Mayonnaise Conditioner
To recondition the hair, shampoo hair with homemade shampoo or a shampoo from the natural foods store. Rinse and towel dry. Apply regular mayonnaise (not salad dressing) to the hair. Massage in. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, shampoo again lightly and rinse with an apple cider vinegar and water solution.




DANDRUFF
Dandruff is a dry scaly condition of the skin on the scalp and less often, on the face and the torso.

It comes in tow types:-

(A) Pityriasis-capitis- It is the simple kind consisting of white dry flakes falling from the scalp. The result is due the rate at which the scalp sheds its dry skin cells, which in turn depends on the health and diet of the individual stress, too seems to be related.

Can be controlled by:-

(i) Paying more attention to health hygiene.

(ii) Consuming more fresh fruits in your diet.

(iii) Drinking plenty of water.

(iv) Rinsing the hair carefully after shampoo.

(v) Brushing gently to rid the hair of trapped cells.

(vi) Lightly massaging the scalp to dislodge the dandruff flakes.

If a simple routine like this does not work, consult a dermatologist on the use of anti-dandruff shampoo, which might slow down the rate at which the cells are shed from the scalp.

(B) Seborrhoeic Dermatitis:- If the scalp is very greasy, an individual might end up with this type of dandruff, which is thick, oily, scaly, crusted and weeping.

This condition almost always needs medical care and attention, but if it is mild you can treat it at home by either using an anti-dandruff shampoo or trying home remedies. The best remedy however is to wash hair regularly with a shampoo containing selenium compound or cool tar extracts. Consult a dermatologist if the problem is severe or persists.

Tips on Managing Dandruff

Restore the health of the scap by bringing about a positive change in your diet and living habits.

Light oil massage, can help to dislodge the existing dandruff flakes. Massage the scalp carefully. The fingertips should be used to move, the skin on the scalp in small circulatory motions.

Keep your scalp very clean. This can be achieved by washing hair twice a week with liquid shampoos.

Dandruff can be infections. Keep your belongings clean and separate to eliminate the chances of infection. Whenever you wash your hair, soak your hair brushes and combs in hot water containing antiseptic lotion.

Treatment with herbal extracts has been found to be effective. Herbs like heena, amla, lemon, reetha have antiseptic properties and are wonderful cleansers.

Bring about a positive modification into your lifestyle, to eliminate stress and overcome dietary deficiencies.

Besides the anti-dandruff creams, lotions, oils and shampoos available in the market, there are many simple house hold remedies to fight dandruff described below:

Mix two tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar and six tablespoons of hot water. Dab with cotton into the scalp, parting the hair with a comb apply all over the scalp. Preferably it should be used at bed time. Tie a scarf over the hair to avoid staining the pillow. Next morning wash the hair with shampoo. After the hair is thoroughly cleansed pour over as a last rinse a mixture of three tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar and one cup of hot water. Then dry the hair thoroughly. This should be done twice a week for three months.

Hot oil therapy is another method to cure dandruff. Massage hot oil into the scalp at bedtime. Next morning an hour before bath, rub lemon juice mixed with cosmetic venegar (mix 1:2 ratio) into the scalp. Give the hair a good wash and egg shampoo.

Give your hair a hot steam bath. Massage hot oil with a hot damp towel and leave it on the head like a turban so that the steam can fight dandruff. You may use two towels for this purpose.

Here is another beauty tip for your hair. After giving your hair a good wash, boil five teaspoons of dried used tea leaves in lime water and use it as a last rinse after shampoo. This gives the hair a lustrous shine and provides nourishment too.

More treatments options for Dandruff:

Make an infusion of 1 ounce each of fresh or dried rosemary and sage in 2 cups of water. Let steep for 24 hours, then use daily as a hair rinse.

Boil 5 heaping Tbsp dried thyme in 2 cups water for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Pour 1/2 mixture over clean, damp hair. Massage into scalp, do not rinse. Use second half of solution another day.

Instead of shampooing, massage handfuls of baking soda into the hair and scalp to absorb oil and to loossen dead skin on scalp. Rinse thoroughly, use no other shampoos. While initially the hair may seem dry, after several weeks, dandruff will be gone and hair will be smooth and shiny.

Mint Rinse
Boil:
1 cup water
1 cup apple cider vinegar
1 handful of fresh mint leaves
Strain and pour into a container. With fingertips, massage solution into the scalp, let dry without rinsing out.

Use the hot oil treatment recipe given on this page.

Soothing Herbal Hair Rinse
Combine equal parts of dried rosemary, comfrey, witch hazel leaves and nettles to make about 1/2 cup. Add to 2 cups of water in a covered pot. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let steep overnight. Strain. Shampoo and rinse hair then use herb tea for a final rinse to relieve itchy, flaky scalp.

Choosing a Product For Hair Care

SHAMPOOS
They constitute an essential part of grooming.

An effective shampoo must:-

Strip the hair of dirt and excess oil.

Clean the scalp to remove the top layer of dead skin cells.

A shampoo might contain one or more types of following ingredients:-

(a) Soap:- Soap-based shampoos used as active cleansing ingredient may leave a residue on the hair if used in combination with hard water, thus leaving the hair dull. However, the residue can be removed with dilute lemon juice.

(b) Synthetic Detergents:- They do not tend to leave a residue, as they do not interact with hard water. The strength of the synthetic detergent will determine whether a shampoo is designated for dry, normal or oily hair.

(c) Acid:- To balance the alkaline nature of many shampoo that might leave hair looking dull and lifeless, mild acids are added to many shampoos to achieve a "pH-balance".

(d) Conditioners:- The purpose of a conditioner is to replenish the oils that detergents remove so as to make the shampooing process more convenient. Shampoos that contain detergents and conditioners, counteract one another to some extent, thereby reducing the overall effectiveness of the product.

(e) Medication:- Some shampoos contain ingredients to treat skin problems on the scalp, e.g. dandruff. Medicated shampoos contain agents which slow the growth of the skin of the scalp, and bring the inflammation of the oil glands under control, relieving the itching. They do not encourage hair growth.


CONDITIONERS
Choice of using a conditioner is one of personal experimentation and choice.

The active ingredients in these conditioners are proteins. They also contain quaternary compounds which help to control fly-away hair, a common problem in dry, cold climates and air-conditioned rooms. Besides the oils in the conditioners help to replenish those which have been stripped from the hair in the cleaning process.

They reduce the trauma of combing hair when wet and squeaky clean.

They contain ingredients which help to temporarily mend damaged hair by binding ruffled hair and split ends.

Not everyone needs a conditioner.

HOME MADE HAIR CONDITIONERS
Healthy hair stretches up to 35 percent of its length before snapping off; dry hair breaks more quickly because it does not have much elasticity. If your hair feels dry and looks dull, try one of these conditioning recipes.

i) AROMATIC AID: Combine the following oils in 50 ml/ 2 fl oz of base carrier oil and 10 ml/2 tsp jojoba oil:

10 drops of rosewood oil.

5 drops of geranium oil.

5 drops of sandalwood oil.

5 drops of lavender oil.

Apply the mixture to the ends of your hair and leave it on for at least half an hour before washing and rinsing thoroughly.

ii) KITCHEN CURE: Boil a handful of ground sesame seeds in a little water for 10 minutes, strain, cool and apply the mixture to your hair to boost shine, suppleness and softness.


COLORING HAIR
Hair color preparations range from temporary coloring agents, to permanent coloring agents. The temporary dyes which simply coat the hair with color, do not irritate the scalp or damage the hair. Whereas, permanent dying or bleaching of hair may cause both the problems as they actually penetrate the hair.

Semi-permanent dyes offer a reasonable compromise because they last longer than temporary dyes and are less likely to irritate the skin or damage the scalp.

HAIR COLORING CHOICES

Permanent colour particles change your natural pigmentation by penetrating the hair cuticle; if you are going lighter, hydrogen peroxide is applied to strip the colour out of your hair before it is replaced with chemical dye. The effects last for up to six weeks before you have to have the roots re-done.

Semi-permanent colour particles lodge into the cuticle layer but no further. Ideal for Afro, and Asian hair, semi-permanents tend to fade after five or six washes.

Tone-on-tone colour is quite a new idea; the basic principle is that it lasts longer than semi-permanent but not as long as permanent colour.

Temporary rinses coat the strands with colour; they are not absorbed by the cuticle, are very subtle, good for grey hair, and last for only one wash.

Vegetable dyes do not lighten your hair, they simply enhance colour, depth and shine.

Source: Get Fit for Life by Kate Shapland


MOUSES, GELS AND HAIR SPRAYS
Hair mouses and gels are popularly used for hair styling and to provide them a hold for longer time. You need to however test a product for allergic reaction, before regularly using them. They can in some cases, aggravate acne and milia on the face and neck, particularly in areas the hair touches, such as the forehead, cheeks and the back of the neck.

Hair sprays may also cause allergic reactions and have been reported to cause irritation to the eyes, respiratory problems and even irregular heartbeats. When using a hair spray protect your face, especially the eyes. Besides take care that you do not inhale the mist.

What Makes the Hair Shine

Hair is coated with a layer of sebum a natural oil produced by sebaceous gland lying next to each hair follicle in the scalp.

The sebum gives the hair its shine and also protects it from losing its own moisture content. The amount of oil secreted by the sebaceous glands determine whether the hair is dry, greasy or normal.

At the same time use of harsh shampoo, or dry windy weather can strip the natural oils from the scalp and hair leaving it dull and dry.

The secretions of the sebaceous glands are controlled by hormones circulating through the blood vessels in the scalp. Hormonal shock periods, such as puberty, adolescence, after childbirth and the menopause may greatly affect the condition and appearance of the hair.

Hair Problem

SPLIT ENDS

Split ends are caused when hair is damaged, either by harsh shampoos, too much direct from the sun or a hair dryer, perming or bleaching or very often simply because the tips of hair are very old.

The only cure for split ends is to have them trimmed off; if left, they may split further up the hair, making it look dull and lifeless.


HEALTHY HAIR: In top condition, the scaly outer shell, or cuticle, of each hair lies flat and smooth along the whole length of the shaft.


Split End Treatments:
Mix 1 tsp honey with 2 Tbsp olive oil, then beat in 1 egg yolk. Massage on hair in small sections. Wrap head with shower cap for 30 minutes. Rinse and shampoo.

Massage hair and scalp with warm avocado or olive oil. Wrap hair securely in a towel. Leave oil on hair about 8 hours or overnight. If left on overnight, put a shower cap over head to avoid staining pillows and bedding. Wash hair, then rinse with a vinegar /water solution.

Hot Oil Treatment 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 cup boiling water

Place olive oil and boiling water into large glass bottle or jar with a lid. You may need to wrap a towel around the bottle to avoid burning yourself. Shake very well until oil is emulsified. Massage into hair, taking care not to burn your head. Put a shower cap or plastic bag over your hair and wrap your head in a hot towel that has been soaked in hot water then wrung out. Leave mixture on your hair for 1/2 hour, then shampoo as usual.


VERY-GREASY HAIR

Mainly due to hormonal problem, the sebaceous glands tend to become overactive and produce too much sebum.


Tips on managing Greasy hair:-

Avoid too much brushing of hair because it might further stimulate the oil glands that are already over-active.

Wash your hair every third or fourth day or even more frequently, depending on individual comfort. A good nourishing liquid shampoo is often the best answer.

Excessive oiliness if neglected can lead to falling hair. If treated in time it can be prevented.

Wear your hair in easy-to-manage, well cut style. Light perming can help as it lifts the hair slightly away from the scalp, making it less easy for the sebum to travel up the hair shaft.


VERY -DRY HAIR

May result from hereditary or hormonal problems-or due to a result of damage caused by over-use of heated rollers, hot hair dryers, perms and bleaches.


You can protect your hair:

By using very mild shampoos and good quality conditioners.

By having them trimmed regularly.

By going in for once-weekly hot oil treatment. Use warm olive or almond oil and massage it carefully into the scalp and hair.

Leave the oil on overnight, if possible, by covering the hair with a plastic bath cap and a toweling turban. Wash the oil off the next day by applying diluted shampoo directly to the scalp before applying water.

Mayonnaise ConditionerTo recondition the hair, shampoo hair with homemade shampoo or a shampoo from the natural foods store. Rinse and towel dry. Apply regular mayonnaise (not salad dressing) to the hair. Massage in. Let sit for 10-15 minutes, shampoo again lightly and rinse with an apple cider vinegar and water solution.


DANDRUFF

Dandruff is a dry scaly condition of the skin on the scalp and less often, on the face and the torso.


It comes in tow types:-

(A) Pityriasis-capitis-
It is the simple kind consisting of white dry flakes falling from the scalp. The result is due the rate at which the scalp sheds its dry skin cells, which in turn depends on the health and diet of the individual stress, too seems to be related.


Can be controlled by:-

(i) Paying more attention to health hygiene.
(ii) Consuming more fresh fruits in your diet.
(iii) Drinking plenty of water.
(iv) Rinsing the hair carefully after shampoo.
(v) Brushing gently to rid the hair of trapped cells.
(vi) Lightly massaging the scalp to dislodge the dandruff flakes.

If a simple routine like this does not work, consult a dermatologist on the use of anti-dandruff shampoo, which might slow down the rate at which the cells are shed from the scalp.

(B) Seborrhoeic Dermatitis:- If the scalp is very greasy, an individual might end up with this type of dandruff, which is thick, oily, scaly, crusted and weeping.
This condition almost always needs medical care and attention, but if it is mild you can treat it at home by either using an anti-dandruff shampoo or trying home remedies. The best remedy however is to wash hair regularly with a shampoo containing selenium compound or cool tar extracts. Consult a dermatologist if the problem is severe or persists.


Tips on Managing Dandruff
Restore the health of the scap by bringing about a positive change in your diet and living habits.

Light oil massage, can help to dislodge the existing dandruff flakes. Massage the scalp carefully.

The fingertips should be used to move, the skin on the scalp in small circulatory motions.

Keep your scalp very clean. This can be achieved by washing hair twice a week with liquid shampoos.

Dandruff can be infections. Keep your belongings clean and separate to eliminate the chances of infection. Whenever you wash your hair, soak your hair brushes and combs in hot water containing antiseptic lotion.

Treatment with herbal extracts has been found to be effective. Herbs like heena, amla, lemon, reetha have antiseptic properties and are wonderful cleansers.

Bring about a positive modification into your lifestyle, to eliminate stress and overcome dietary deficiencies.


Besides the anti-dandruff creams, lotions, oils and shampoos available in the market, there are many simple house hold remedies to fight dandruff described below:

Mix two tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar and six tablespoons of hot water. Dab with cotton into the scalp, parting the hair with a comb apply all over the scalp. Preferably it should be used at bed time. Tie a scarf over the hair to avoid staining the pillow. Next morning wash the hair with shampoo. After the hair is thoroughly cleansed pour over as a last rinse a mixture of three tablespoons of cosmetic vinegar and one cup of hot water. Then dry the hair thoroughly. This should be done twice a week for three months.

Hot oil therapy is another method to cure dandruff. Massage hot oil into the scalp at bedtime. Next morning an hour before bath, rub lemon juice mixed with cosmetic venegar (mix 1:2 ratio) into the scalp. Give the hair a good wash and egg shampoo.

Give your hair a hot steam bath. Massage hot oil with a hot damp towel and leave it on the head like a turban so that the steam can fight dandruff. You may use two towels for this purpose.

Here is another beauty tip for your hair. After giving your hair a good wash, boil five teaspoons of dried used tea leaves in lime water and use it as a last rinse after shampoo. This gives the hair a lustrous shine and provides nourishment too.


More treatments options for Dandruff:

Make an infusion of 1 ounce each of fresh or dried rosemary and sage in 2 cups of water. Let steep for 24 hours, then use daily as a hair rinse.

Boil 5 heaping Tbsp dried thyme in 2 cups water for 10 minutes. Strain and cool. Pour 1/2 mixture over clean, damp hair. Massage into scalp, do not rinse. Use second half of solution another day.

Instead of shampooing, massage handfuls of baking soda into the hair and scalp to absorb oil and to loossen dead skin on scalp. Rinse thoroughly, use no other shampoos. While initially the hair may seem dry, after several weeks, dandruff will be gone and hair will be smooth and shiny.

Mint RinseBoil:1 cup water1 cup apple cider vinegar1 handful of fresh mint leavesStrain and pour into a container. With fingertips, massage solution into the scalp, let dry without rinsing out.
Use the hot oil treatment recipe given on this page.

Soothing Herbal Hair RinseCombine equal parts of dried rosemary, comfrey, witch hazel leaves and nettles to make about 1/2 cup. Add to 2 cups of water in a covered pot. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let steep overnight. Strain. Shampoo and rinse hair then use herb tea for a final rinse to relieve itchy, flaky scalp.

Do & Don't of Healthy Hair

Do

Choose brushes and combs with widely spaced and smooth tipped bristles and teeth to avoid the risk of splitting hairs and scratching the scalp.

Wash combs and brushes in shampoo or soap at least once a week.

Always rinse your hair thoroughly.

Use a conditioner to smooth the outer surface of the hair, which is roughened by washing.

Apply extra conditioner when using a hairdryer, rollers, or tongs.

Always try a temporary rinse first, before you risk using permanent color.

Go to a professional colorist for permanent dyeing or bleaching.


Don't

Don't over brush your hair, for it may increase the greasiness of oily hair and break the ends of dry hair.

Don't tangle the hair while washing it.

Don't give dry hair two applications of shampoo.

Don't rub hair too vigorously when drying, it may break and tangle the hair.

Don't have a permanent bleach if all you really need are "highlights".

Don't apply a permanent color until you have tested the solution on your skin for 36 hours to check for any adverse reactions.

Know Your Hair Type

OILY HAIR

APPEARANCE
Strands separate and stick to your head.

CARE GUIDELINES
Shampoo as often as necessary even if that means everyday.
Use a mild shampoo.
Use very little shampoo.
Put a conditioner on the ends unless the hair is very oily.
Don't use too hot a hairdryer.
Don't brush or comb more than necessary.

SPECIAL TREATMENTS
To help reduce sebum production use 2พ pints of water with the strained juice of 1 lemon added for the final rinse after shampooing.


DRY HAIR

APPEARANCE
Tangles easily, brittle

CARE GUIDELINES
Shampoo your hair every 4-6 days.
Use a mild shampoo.
Use a cream conditioner after every shampoo, combing it thoroughly through the hair and leaving it on for a few minutes before rinsing.

SPECIAL TREATMENTS
Massage 2 tablespoon of warm olive of almond oil into your hair.
Wrap your head in a warm damp towel or a plastic turban and keep it on for at least 30 minutes.
Do this every 3-4 weeks.


COMBINATION HAIR

APPEARANCE
Oily roots/dry ends (most common type)

CARE GUIDELINES
Adapt the guidelines above for your own hair type.