Maintaining a healthy, shiny glow to your hair is about more than just washing with shampoo regularly. The hair shaft is actually a scaly system of cuticles much like roof shingles, according to Yale University. As wind and rain can cause roof shingles to look worn and bent, many factors can make your hair look dull, damaged and otherwise unattractive, but a few simple tips can help you have the shiniest hair possible.
Keep Your Hair Hydrated
Water makes up about 30 percent of the composition of your hair, according to the University of Southern California, so keeping it hydrated is essential to giving it that shine. Use a moisturizing shampoo, even if you have oily hair. Water helps keep hair strong as well as flattening down the shingle-like surface of the hair shaft. Drink enough water every day to help keep your hair hydrated. Enough water means that you don’t feel thirsty throughout the day and your urine is a slightly yellow color rather than amber or deep yellow, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Avoid Brushing and Blow Drying
Heat and friction both play an important role in potential damage to the hair shaft, so avoiding them can help keep your hair healthy and shiny. Brushing your hair constantly actually breaks down the protective layer on the outside of the hair shaft, and brushing while wet only makes the effect worse, according to the University of Southern California. Instead of blow drying, take extra time to allow your hair to air dry, and run your fingers softly through it instead of using a harsh brush.
Avoid Chemical Treatments
Hair colorings and perms bombard the hair shaft and scalp with harsh chemicals such as peroxide, which can have long-lasting damaging effects on the other layer of the hair shaft. If you want to color your hair, shop around for a hair dye made of all-natural ingredients.
Use Protein
The hair shaft is made of keratin, a type of protein. Use shampoos containing proteins, such as soy, wheat or silk. The added protein will help strengthen the hair shaft, preventing damage from heat and breakage.
Avoid the Sun
Just as your skin can get damaged from too much exposure to the sun, hair is equally as susceptible to breakage and a lack of shine thanks to harmful UV rays. Some shampoos may claim to act as a sunscreen for the hair, but they can’t protect the keratin that makes up the hair shaft, according to Yale University. If you’ll be out in the sun for extended periods of time, wear a wide-brimmed hat or a similar covering.
