Hair care is the care and hygiene of hair and scalp on the human head. The scalp should be kept healthy to ensure healthy hair production. Hair is formed in the pockets of the skin and scalp called follicles. The basal tip of the hair in the scalp is known as papilla which contains the blood vessels to supply nourishment to the hair. Hair is made of strong strands of protein called keratin which is the barometer which indicates the health of the hair. Hair is composed of oxygen, iron, nitrogen, hydrogen, sulfur, carbon, and phosphorus.
Regular cleaning of the scalp and hair removes the dead skin cells and toxins which gives rise to bacteria and viruses which may lead to infection. Haircare involves cleansing, toning and conditioning carried out regularly.
The hair could be dry hair or oily hair. Dry hair looks dry and unhealthy. Hair is thin, brittle and rough and usually has split ends. On the other hand, oily hair is more vulnerable to dust and dirt.
Remedy for Dry Hair
- Add 2 tbsp of gram flour to milk or coconut milk. Massage it on the scalp and keep it for at least 10 minutes and then rinse the hair. Repeat it at least once a week.
- Condition the hair by mixing 1 tbsp of glycerin, 1 tbsp of castor oil, 1 tbsp of milk and 1 tbsp of vinegar. Apply the mixture after shampooing your hair. Keep it for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the hair well.
- Soak henna in curd. Add 1 tbsp of lemon juice and apply it on the head. Curd prevents the drying of hair and gives them shine. Henna acts as a natural conditioner. It maintains and heals the hair shaft by repairing and sealing the cuticle. Henna balances the pH of the scalp and prevents premature hair fall, dandruff, and dryness of hair.
Remedy for Oily Hair
- Shampoo the hair frequently. Apply astringent which will absorb excess oil from the scalp.
- Mix 1 tbsp of lemon juice and 1 tbsp of Aloe Vera to the shampoo you use and shampoo your hair.
- Boil mint leaves in water and rinse your hair after shampooing your hair. This will remove excess oil from the scalp.