Hair

Do you have any grey hairs that are peeking through your hairline? Your mane will inevitably start to change as you age. The once vibrant locks will lose their color. Another thing you will see happen is those gray hairs will turn wiry, dry, and brittle. Your entire head of hair will change over time. You will begin to see your mane switch from oily to dry and unmanageable. Another problem you will encounter is split ends.

What is a Split End?

When you have long locks, it’s easy for the hair to develop split ends, which means the hair is growing an extension or splitting off. These splits are caused by damaged hair that is dry and trying to compensate for the injury.

Did you know you can have more than one split on a hair shaft? The damaged hair can split in several directions, which is commonly seen when your tresses are longer. Regular trims can help with split ends, but it’s only cutting away the problem. Your hair needs nourishment to keep it in top shape.

Collagen is natural oil produced by your body that helps keep your hair and skin looking great. These oils nourish your system to ensure that you don’t have dryness. You run into problems when you dye your hair, use curling and flattening irons, and wash your locks too frequently.

All these things will cause the oils to be stripped from the hair and result in dry tresses. Now, you could do none of those things and still have split ends, so you should take preventative measures if you want longer hair and don’t want to deal with the unsightly dry issues.

Ten Preventative Ways to Stop Split Ends Naturally

Are you ready to do something about all those splitting hairs that are dry and unmanageable? Well, here are ten natural things that you can do that will help and not hurt your locks.

1. Wash Your Hair 1-2 Times Per Week

Are you washing your hair too much? When you’re younger, you may wash your hair every day to get the style you need and keep the oil issues at bay. However, as you age, you need those natural oils to nourish your long locks.

It’s appropriate to wash your hair once or twice each week. If you find that your hair gets too oily in between washes, you can consider using a dry shampoo. Stripping the oils in the hair is the most common reason why it will become dry and split.

2. Use Natural Hair Dye

While it’s easy to go to the drug store and pick up a box of hair dye or go to your local salon, you may want to try something new with your hair. Why not use a natural hair dye like henna?

It’s not nearly as damaging to your locks, and you can get vivid colors and almost the same results. Since henna is natural, it won’t cause issues like ammonia and peroxide, which are two common ingredients in hair dye.

3. Turn Down or Off the Heated Hair Styling Products

One of the most significant ways that your hair gets damaged is from excessive heat. Some curling irons can go up to 180 degrees or higher. All that heat and pressure put on the hair shaft is drying and damaging.

Even blow-drying your hair can cause problems. You can put unique products on your mane to protect it when you are using these devices. Additionally, you can find more natural ways to style your long locks.

For instance, your hair will dry nicely in the breeze outside or when you sit in front of a fan. Also, most hair dryers have a cold setting on them, which will help to minimize the damage.

4. Deep Condition Your Hair

Depending on the state of your hair, you should be deep conditioning at least once per week. Some people won’t need to do it as often, but these treatments are great for dry, brittle hair that needs to be restored.

Get a conditioner at your local drug store or try some all-natural coconut oil. Apply a generous amount to the hair trying to avoid the scalp area if there are oil issues. Now, please pay close attention to the ends of the hair where it’s prone to breakage.

Allow the condition to sit for about an hour, then gently wash it away. Your hair will be soft and manageable.

5. Get Regular Trims

It’s your prerogative if you want long or short hair. However, long hair comes with significant responsibilities, which include having it trimmed frequently. About every six weeks, you need to get approximately an inch of hair trimmed off.

If you see split ends further up than the one inch, you should cut above that area. The goal is to remove any splitting during these trims. It seems that once they start, they will continue to multiply all over your hair. Trimming removes the brittle ends and allows the health and vitality of your hair to remain.

6. Use a Silk Pillowcase

It sounds like such a simple request, but using a silk pillowcase can dramatically impact the oils in your hair. Did you know that cotton or wool pillowcases can cause damage to your hair?

It sounds crazy, but your head is rubbing up against that pillow for eight hours a night. If it’s silk, it won’t cause near the damage as the other varieties.

7. Don’t Towel Dry Your Hair

Speaking of materials rubbing against your hair, did you know that towels can be very damaging to your tresses? It sounds bizarre, but your cotton towel can cause damage and cause hair loss. Do you have an old t-shirt hanging around the house that you could use as a method to dry your hair?

The t-shirt is softer and won’t cause damage when vigorously rubbing your hair to remove water. It’s a simple trick that will work wonders.

8. Take Collagen Supplements

If you’ve tried many methods and nothing seems to be working, you should consider adding all-natural collagen supplements to your diet. Keratin is the protein that makes up your hair, and collagen has a great deal of keratin.

When what you’re doing on the outside doesn’t seem to be working, you need to nourish it from the inside out. Another thing you can do is to make sure you get plenty of water each day.

You should be drinking half your weight in ounces, so if you weigh 120 lbs., you need to be drinking at least 60 ounces of water each day.

While that may sound like a lot of water, remember that’s only about eight glasses spread over 24 hours. You will see a dramatic change in your hair, skin, and nails when you’re getting the proper hydration in your body.

9. Use a Detangling Spray

If you notice that your hair is often tangled after you wash it, don’t rip a comb through it, trying to blast through the knots. It would help if you used a detangling spray. It will nourish the hair shaft so that each knot comes apart with ease. The more you yank and tug on your hair, the more damage you will cause.

10. Switch to a Natural Shampoo

Another thing that can cause significant issues to your hair is the shampoo you use. Many shampoos have added ingredients that are made to dry the oils and offer little moisturization. You want to remove the dirt and excess oils, but you need to leave some behind for nourishment.

Thankfully, many natural shampoos and products can help you with your dry locks. Some of the most common are:

• Soap Nuts
• Aloe Vera Shampoo
• Castile Soap Shampoo
• Rhassoul Clay
• Eggs
• Shikakai
• Hibiscus Cleanser
• Fullers Earth Cleanser
• Rice Water
• Besan or Chickpea Flour

There are all sorts of holistic products online and in local stores; make sure you read your labels to ensure that you’re getting no additives that can be damaging. You will find that you can keep your hair clean and healthy using nature’s products, and they will do just as good if not better than overly manufactured ones.

Final Thought on Managing Your Split Ends

Have you ever seen a person with gorgeous hair that shined and had the perfect hue? Did you ever feel jealous and wish that hair was yours? You can have the hair of your dreams with a little work and the right products backing you.

Split ends are unsightly and can cause your hair to look lackluster and frizzy, especially if you keep it long. Thankfully, you can have the long hair you want, and the healthy shine you desire by switching your routine. Don’t you want to be the envy of everyone when they see your gorgeous locks?

7 Types of Hair Removal Explained

55 percent of men admit to having felt embarrassed by their body hair. And this feeling of embarrassment doesn’t just affect their self-image. 

One-third of the surveyed men say they’ve avoided swimming because of their body hair while one-fourth have avoided going to the gym. And the effects don’t stop there. One-fifth say that their body hair has negatively impacted their sex life. 

Don’t let your body hair keep you from loving your body or enjoying life. Keep reading to discover the different types of hair removal methods. 

1. Shaving

If you’ve never attempted hair removal before, shaving may be the best option for you. 

Shaving involves using a razor to remove hair from the surface of your skin. If you’re a man, you’ve likely shaved your facial hair before. The method is the same for shaving away other hair on your body. 

Always use shaving cream and a post-shave lotion to reduce irritation. Keep in mind, that both irritation and in-grown hairs are common with shaving, especially in sensitive areas like pubic hair. 

2. Waxing 

Another one of the more popular forms of hair removal is waxing. This is the process of applying a sticky substance to the hair. When the sticky substance is removed quickly, it takes the body hair and its root with it. 

There are two main waxing methods, hard wax, and strip wax.

A hard wax is traditionally done in a salon. This is a peelable wax that’s applied thickly onto your skin. This method is used for sensitive areas, such as the face, underarms, and pubic area. 

A strip wax is a waxing method that can be done from home. These kits have a strip that contains wax substance ready to be put onto your skin and peeled away. 

Waxing generally lasts three to five weeks depending on the method used and the body area. 

3. Sugaring

While many people consider waxing and sugaring to be the same thing, there are significant differences between these hair removal methods. 

A sugar wax is a wax alternative made with pure cane sugar, lemon juice, and sea salt. The all-natural ingredients are safe enough to eat, ensuring that you’re not putting any harmful chemicals on your body. 

You can use a kit safely at home, providing results for up to eight weeks. Start by applying a thin layer of sugar wax onto your skin then firmly apply an epilating strip. Quickly remove the strip and then wash away any remaining wax from the skin. 

4. Threading

Threading is a hair removal method that’s grown in popularity in recent years. It is most commonly used for eyebrows or facial hair, but the concept can be applied to any area of body hair. 

Threading involves a professional wrapping a cotton thread around a single strand of hair. The string is then tugged, removing the hair and its follicle. The method is considered virtually painless, though it can be a lengthy process.

This method lasts for two to six weeks. Many people with sensitive skin opt for threading because it doesn’t involve putting anything on your skin except for a sanitary cotton string. 

5. Depilatory Creams 

Have you heard the term depilation and are wondering what is depilation? In simple terms, depilation is the removal of hair above the surface of the skin. This is commonly linked to shaving or trimming. 

But, there are also depilatory creams that provide the same results. These creams are applied over the portion of the body you want to remove hair from. The formula in the cream then dissolves any hair it comes in contact with. 

While this method is essentially painless, you may feel a slight tingling sensation while it’s applied to the skin. If the tingling turns to burning or irritation, wash the formula off immediately. Some people find that their skin is sensitive to these creams.  

Since this method only removes the hair on top of the skin’s surface, it lasts around the same time as shaving. 

6. Electrolysis

Electrolysis is currently the only permanent hair removal method approved by the FDA.

This method involves a professional passing an electrical current through your hair follicles via a small needle. This current damages the follicle and prevents any future hair growth. This method is only available by visiting a board-certified dermatologist or electrologist. 

Electrolysis requires follow-ups every week for several weeks. Experts recommend anywhere between fifteen and thirty procedures for permanent hair removal. 

7. Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal is one of the more long-term hair removal options available. 

With this method, a laser is used to emit light on certain areas of your body. The light transfers to heat energy, which then damages the hair follicles within your skin. Once damaged, any existing hair falls off and any further growth is prevented. 

To get the desired results, you’ll generally need between six to twelve sessions. While the results can be permanent, many people follow up with one to two sessions a year. 

Try these Different Types of Hair Removal Methods 

As you now know, there are many different types of hair removal methods. 

Get ready for spring and try several of these methods yourself. Don’t get frustrated if the first few methods you try aren’t working as desired — everyone’s body reacts differently to hair removal methods. It may take some trial and error, but one of these methods is bound to provide the results you’re looking for. 

Now that you’re rid of body hair, you can focus on the rest of your look. Check out more of our site to learn how to best dress your body.

Say No to Frizz: 10 Tips for Softer, Smoother Hair

Did you know that most women spend nearly 2 hours to wash and style their hair every week? This number can definitely be bigger if you have to go to various events or parties. This happens because all women want to have shiny and soft hair and at the end of the day, beauty takes a lot of time!

But how to get smooth hair? What should you do to improve the appearance of your hair without compromising its health? This article will give you a few tips, so keep reading.

1. Dry Your Hair Using a t-Shirt, Not a Towel

This is probably new to you, but if you hear the logic behind it, it will make sense. Rubbing your hair with a towel after you have washed it can damage the soft ends of your hair. On the other hand, if you simply use a t-shirt made from cotton, it will not affect its appearance or development. When you dry your hair, make sure that you simply dab it with the t-shirt and don’t try to rub the water out of it.

2. Rinse With Cold Water, Even In Cold Seasons

This might sound a bit scary, especially during winter times, but it’s a proven and effective technique to make your hair look shinier and smoother. As you probably already know, warm or hot water will eventually make the out layers of your hairs get dilated while cold water makes your hair shrink up. Using cold water will “close” your individual hairs and make them look flat, giving the impression of a smoother hair.

3. Trim On a Regular Basis

Trimming your hair is like trimming your lawn. It makes it look beautiful and it ensures a smooth and balanced growth. Even if you want to grow your hair longer, make sure that you trim it on a regular basis. Most women trim it once every week or every two weeks, but you can find your own trimming routine. This prevents split ends and gives the impression of a smoother, shinier hair.

4. Use a Silk Pillow Cover

There’s nothing wrong with a cotton cover, nit this type of material tends to draw moisture from your hair. The human hair has natural oils that protect it from dust and impurities. Removing these natural oils also makes the hair lose its shininess and smoothness. By switching to a silk cover, you avoid this, not to mention that silk covers are also very comfortable on any pillow.

5. Take Omega-3 Supplements

This is basically helping your hair from the inside, not from outside. Omega 3 fatty acids are necessary for the human brain and other organs in the body. You can get omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids from fish, but you can also take it as a supplement. These healthy fats help the heart and make your hair look more beautiful and attractive. They also offer great benefits for your nails and skin too.

6. Massage Your Scalp From Time To Time

Keep in mind that there are a lot of tiny blood vessels in your scalp and they are responsible for keeping your hair healthy and beautiful. By massaging your scalp from time to time, you’re basically stimulating the circulatory system in your scalp. This helps to bring more nutrients and oxygen to each and every one of your individual hairs. As a result, your hair will look more attractive because it’s better nourished.

7. Use a Comb For Wet Hair, Not a Brush

Wet hair is very sensitive, so make sure that you are careful when combing. It’s not advisable to use a brush because it might damage the individual hairs. Instead, make sure that you use a comb with wide teeth and start from the end of your hairs working upwards. Carefully de-tangle your hair going vertically and use a brush only when your hair is completely dry.

8. Use Aloe Vera To Nourish Your Hair

Aloe vera is a plant with numerous benefits for your hair and body. You can find it in many lotions and creams because it has nourishing properties. For example, its composition is similar to keratin and this is the building block of every human hair. You can put a small amount of aloe vera gel in a cup with warm water. Apply this mixture on your hair with a comb and let it sit for 30 minutes or so. Rinse with cold water in the end and make sure that the gel doesn’t contain alcohol, as it can damage your hairs.

9. Don’t Wash Your Hair Every Day

Washing your hair daily seems like a good idea to -eliminate impurities and making it look fantastic. However, too much washing can actually remove the natural oils your hair produces. We talked about these natural oils earlier when it was mentioned to use a silk pillow cover. Some women prefer to wash their hair every other day, but you can experiment on your own and find your unique washing schedule that does the most good to your hair. Make sure that you read this article to find out more information on washing your hair.

10. Don’t Use Heat Tools Unless Absolutely Necessary

The curling iron and blow dryer are the heat tools. These are great when you need to go somewhere and you need to dry and style your hair as soon as possible. However, they also seriously damage your hair in the long run and make it lose its natural sheen and smoothness. Refrain from using heat tools unless it’s absolutely necessary and you’ll preserve the natural beauty of your hair for longer.

Now You Know Exactly How To Get Smooth Hair!

As you can see, how to get smooth hair is not complicated. You just have to pay attention to a few aspects and be willing to dedicate a small amount of time to caring for your hair every day.

For more information on how to improve the appearance of your hair and exploring other lifestyle topics in general, make sure that you read the other articles in our blog!

The Most Common Signs and Causes of Hair Loss

You may not realize it, but you lose around 50 to 100 hairs a day. In fact, everybody does.

What happens if you start losing more? Losing your hair is a horrible feeling. It can result in self-esteem issues, depression, embarrassment and a general lack of confidence. While hair loss is much more common in men, it can also affect women too.

The reasons for hair loss are vast and vary from person to person. Some people experience slow and gradual loss over many years and others lose their hair in a matter of months. Regardless of how it’s affecting you, it always helps to educate yourself.

Let’s go over some of the common signs of hair loss and possible causes.

Signs to Watch Out For

Hair loss manifests itself in different ways. There are a number of symptoms to watch out for. These symptoms could be connected to the reason you’re losing your hair, so make sure to examine your scalp and keep a record of what’s going on.

It’s important to see your doctor if you think you’re losing your hair prematurely or as a result of other health issues. First, look for the following warning signs.

Thinning

Gradually thinning hair is the most common way men and women experience loss. The thinning process often occurs over the course of many years.

For men, thinning begins as a receding hairline. It starts on the sides near the temples and increases in depth over time.

Women, on the other hand, experience a general thinning over the entire head. A good indication is if your part is beginning to increase in size.

Bald Spots

One of the most frustrating signs of hair loss is a bald spot somewhere on the scalp. This can be very embarrassing, as sometimes it happens rather quickly.

Men experience this much more often, though it’s possible in women too. It’s a common symptom of male pattern baldness. A bald spot may start relatively small towards the back of the head and increase in size.

Itchiness

One of the early signs of hair loss is an itchy or irritated scalp. If this starts happening suddenly and you don’t have a history of dandruff, it may mean your hair’s falling out.

It’s possible your scalp has a build-up of sebum, which causes itchiness. Sebum is the oil in your skin. If the pores on your scalp are clogged with sebum, the hair follicles may get blocked.

Keep in mind that an itchy scalp could be the result of a number of things. You’ll need to see a doctor to determine the exact cause.

Your Hair Grows Slower

If you notice you don’t need a haircut as frequently, this could be one of the signs of hair loss. Male pattern baldness occurs because your hair follicles enter a resting phase as you get older. This means your hair won’t grow as fast.

Physical Evidence

You may also notice evidence of loss in the shower when you wash your hair. You may also see more falling out when you brush or comb your hair.

You can also look for hair left on your pillow when you wake up. These all could indicate you’ve started to lose your hair.

Possible Causes

Now that we’ve gone over some of the common signs of hair loss, let’s look at reasons why it could be happening.

Remember, everyone’s different and your genetic makeup may have a lot to do with losing your hair. However, there are some environmental and health-related issues that may cause it as well.

Stress

Too much stress seems to wreak havoc on all aspects of our health, and hair loss is no exception.

Stress affects your blood pressure, and often this means your scalp isn’t getting good blood flow. If you’re under constant stress, don’t be surprised if you notice your hair falling out.

The good thing is you can reverse the amount of loss by finding ways to reduce stress.

Hair Care Products

Unfortunately, many brand name hair care products include harmful chemicals. Your skin absorbs these chemicals when you wash or style your hair. Over time, the result could be hair loss.

If you suspect this is happening, try switching to all-natural products and see if the loss stops. Capillus offers a wide range of products to help with hair recovery.

Pregnancy

Some women experience hair loss during pregnancy as a result of both stress and hormonal changes.

It’s also common after the physical and emotional stress of giving birth. Some women notice hair loss in the weeks after their baby is born. This typically stops and hair grows back within months.

Not Getting Enough Protein

If you can’t discover a cause after seeing signs of hair loss, it may be connected to your diet. This is something many people overlook. The good this is, you may simply need more protein.

When your body doesn’t get enough protein, it naturally rations the protein it has. One of the ways it does this is by cutting back on hair growth.

Heredity

This is one of the most common causes of going bald. You may be genetically inclined to lose your hair. This goes for both men and women.

Unfortunately, it’s hard to fight heredity. However, talk to your doctor about what you can do to slow down the process.

Medications

Certain prescription medications cause hair loss in many people. Some common medications that do this include antidepressants, painkillers, and blood pressure medication.

If you notice accelerated hair loss when you start a prescription, speak to your doctor right away.

Watch for These and Other Signs of Hair Loss

Dealing with hair loss is both embarrassing and a jolt to your self-confidence. If it’s inevitable, the best thing you can do is accept it and try not to stress. Remember, worrying about it could just cause more hair to fall out.

Paying attention to the warning signs and causes above could give you a jump on slowing or preventing the process. If you think you need extra help, speak to your doctor about your options.

For more articles on staying healthy, check out our blog today.