Let's talk about what makes hair look sexy, and what makes it look... dare I say, dull. This post is primarily directed towards thick, ethnic, and chemically processed hair textures that are especially prone to dullness, dryness, and breakage. I have a combination of all of the above, so I know from experience that it can take quite some effort for us maintain certain styles. Let's face it- you can have a fabulous haircut/style and still look a little dull. We all can't run to the salon every week like clockwork, but we can take steps to make sure our hair keeps it's natural bounce and shine until we wash it. For those of us with thick, curly, or chemically processed hair, especially those who blowdry it straight, you know this process can cause alot of wear and tear. You might even have a friend who has the crispy remnants of her mane because of her straighening obsession.! (We've all been one or had one at some point!) So whether you wear your hair in waves, curls, or pin straight, dullness is something that can be easily avoided and is caused by a multitude of reasons.
1. Chemical Processing:
This is a major issue, many of us dye our hair, chemically alter its texture, or worse.... both! As a rule of thumb, if you chemically straighten your hair, avoid permanent hair dye like the plague..Bleach is your mortal enemy! Yes many ladies do both, but many of them don't realize how bad for their hair double processing really is. Just like a relaxer, once you start dying your hair another color, you have to touch up the roots every month or so. Not only is this a royal pain, but it ravages the cuticles of your already-processed hair.
If you're a color junkie and are dying to try something different (No pun intended!) luckily there a few safe alternatives out there. First, you can try a semi-permanent hair dye. Pharmacies generally don't carry semi-permanents so check in your local BSS (Beauty Supply Store). Semi-permanent dyes contain no ammonia/bleach and are generally very safe for the hair. Unfortunately, you can't lighten your hair with these dyes, only make it darker/richer. My hair is naturally medium/dark brown and I've successfully dyed it deep red in the past and am currently wearing it jet black.
Another option is to try some of Closet Rogue's clip in extensions for highlights or large blocks of color. We currently make streaks in any color of your choice and can make them with designs (stripes, zebra, leopard print, transition color, etc.) These clip in color blocks are a risk-free way to experiment with color without damaging your hair. They never get dull, fade, or break off and you can experiment to your hearts content. Check out our
product page for more more info.
2. Excessive Use of the Blow Dryer & Flat Iron
Don't overdo it! If you are sitting at home frying your hair to a crisp right now, PLEASE STOP. You need to work with your hair, and use styling alternatives to give yourself a break. I will devote another post to this issue in the upcoming week. Another way to prevent damage from styling tools is to use a heat protecant for your hair. I use Fantasia IC Olive Oil Shine Serum as a multipurpose styling tool. It's good for shine, protecting from heat damage, and it has a fresh, citrus smell. It works wonderfully on curly, wavy, and chemically processed hair. It's lightweight and doesn't leave your hair feeling greasy like most "shine" sprays/serums BUT if your hair is naturally straight or oily, this product is not for you.
[It's also cheaper than Frizz-Ease. Definately worth the $8!]
3. Dry Scalp = Dry Hair
Dry scalp is pretty common, especially in those of us with ethnic hair textures. Don't sit around moping/scratching/flaking.. Moisturize! You can use a light oil or "sheen" spray if your scalp is moderately dry or a conditioning grease if your scalp is very dry. If you have extreme dryness and flaking problem consider using a medicated grease. Sulfur 8 is a well know medicated grease for severe flaking. Personally, I've used Doo Grow Anti Itch Growth Oil and it has worked wonders for me. It has menthol which soothes an itchy scalp, and stimulates hair growth! (My hair grew really fast while I was using this oil.)
[$7- $10, Available at most drugstores and BSS.]
Regardless of what product you use, if you consistently moisture your scalp, you hair will grow thicker and healthier. But don't get too grease happy! When you grease your scalp too much, the oils will drip onto your hair. This can cause your hair to get toasty and eventually break off . Use your discretion, once your hair starts feeling toasty and your skin starts getting oily you've had enough! Wash and style your hair, and apply a little less next time.
Well that's all for my post on hair dullness. Stay tuned later this week for more product reviews and my post on hair styling alternatives for those in-between days!
