Did you know that heroes of ancient Greece used harsh soaps and bleaches to lighten and redden their hair to the colour that was identified with honour and courage? In fact even first-century Romans preferred dark hair, which was made so by a dye concocted from boiled walnuts and leeks. The idea to look good has not changed much over centuries but the products have. More and more youngsters are experimenting with styles, going blonde or simply curling or straightening hair.
Undoubtedly such treatment enhances the look but AAW suggests you to know about the risk too involved in such hair treatments..
Perming & Straightening
Girls with curly hair want it straight and silky and those gifted with the latter want them curled. However, many people have to settle for damaged and destroyed hair.
When hair is straightened or curled, tremendous heat is applied in order to change its natural shape. This converts the protein cystine (of which the hair is composed) to cysteine and then manipulated into a certain look, before changing back. However, in the process some amount of cystic acid is generated which results in 20% of hair getting destroyed. So, if you want to perm your hair or get it straightened, make sure you don’t do so too frequently.
Also make sure that you follow up with hair spa and other conditioning treatments. For the scalp ensure good eating habits to avoid hair fall.
Hair Colour
Regular streaking and dyeing can cause cumulative damage, although it may take years before there are obvious signs of hair breakage. Permanent chemical dyes may damage the hair by breaking through the cuticle shield to invade the cortex. They may also cause an autoimmune reaction leading to alopecia or a skin disease called dermatitis. Instead of using a permanent dye, try a rinse or a temporary dye.
Hot Rollers and Dryers
Applying excessive heat to the hair can damage the scalp and cause the hair follicles to weaken. High heat and the time for which it is used on the hair will also impact structure of hair. While hair loses its elasticity, damage to the cuticle makes it more breakable. Steam forming inside the hair shaft causeshair breakage. It is therefore necessary to limit the amount of heat as well as the length of time you dry your hair.
If you use a blow dryer, use a moderate heat setting. Never over-dry. Cold hair dryers are the best. It is also advisable to towel dry your hair gently before blow drying.
Hair Styling
Avoid tight braids and ponytails as these may cause breakage and tearing of the hair shaft.
Diet
‘Thin may be in’ but definitely not when it comes to hair. The hair root may be too weak to sustain the pressure of the hair, leading to a form of hair loss called Anagen Effluvium. If you want to lose weight, do so under qualified supervision. Always, remember if you ever notice worrying changes in your hair – such as hair loss, itchy scalp, and split ends take it seriously.
Your hair might have to pay the price of your fashion sense, be careful and some TLC to your hair goes a long way
Written by Dr. Apoorva Shah, Founder, Richfeel Trichology.
