A change in the seasons always seems to signal a shift in the state of our nails, hair and skin, too. It feels like the sudden onset of spring this year is no different.
As the days get longer and warmer, and the humidity drops significantly, you may well have noticed a change in your hair’s fortunes. If you are struggling with thinning, frizzing, dry hair, or split ends, you’re probably eager to improve your hair’s strength and shine.
While your genes or a medical condition can sometimes determine your hair strength and volume, there are also some simple, habitual actions you can take to improve your hair health and ensure the most voluminous, controllable locks possible.
If you would like to ensure full, fabulous hair and transform the look and feel of your ‘do, then read on; here are 7 top tips for strengthening your hair this spring.
Turn Down The Heat
Heated styling tools, such as straighteners and hairdryers, can do damage to your hair when used regularly, as part of any styling routine you might have. If you often experience dry or fine hair, be aware that excess heat can weaken your locks, and your hair could experience damage and frizz from exposure to such high heat levels.
If you need to use a hairdryer, keep it six inches away from your hair and avoid using it on one spot for too long, constantly moving the air around to avoid scorching. Go further, and invest in a heat protection product to prevent damage. There are several excellent heat protection sprays and formulas currently on the market.
Absorb More Vitamins
They say that ‘’you are what you eat”, and this is certainly true for your hair. Your hair is one hungry protein filament, and needs vitamins to support its health and growth. Accordingly, your diet feeds into your hair, and if you have a nutritional deficiency, you could be prone to hair thinning or loss. On the flip side, absorbing more vitamins can repair your locks and improve your hair’s health.
Vitamin C, in particular, is essential for hair health. When you absorb vitamin C, your body can then create collagen, which is a protein that is essential for hair structure. What’s more, it can increase the body’s iron absorption, which will support hair growth, too.
You can get the majority of Vitamin C from your diet (good sources of the stuff include oranges, strawberries, peppers, blackcurrants, and broccoli).
Don’t Overdo It On The Shampoo
While it’s certainly important to keep your hair clean, you might be overdoing it on the shampoo. Using too much can strip natural oils from your hair, and that’s even before we consider the temperature of the water in your shower, which, when too hot, can wreak further havoc on your hair. The experts recommend limiting the frequency of your hair washes to twice a week, and try not to use more than 10 millilitres of shampoo in one go to maintain its health.
Doing so more regularly than this could result in dryness and weakened follicles.
A Scalp Massage
Massaging your scalp (or even better, getting someone to do it for you!) can improve blood flow to your hair follicles, which may, in the long run, result in thicker, stronger hair.
Treat yourself to a four-minute scalp massage each day to increase its strength and thickness over time; be sure to apply pressure with your fingertips and use circular motions for best (and most relaxing) results.
Generally speaking, it’s easiest to massage your scalp when it’s wet but before you apply shampoo. Just don’t spend too long under steaming hot water, which can be bad for your hair.
Enjoy More Protein
Eating a diet which limits sources of protein may occasionally lead to hair thinning. This is because follicles require protein for growth, and as such, it’s wise to maintain a healthy, balanced diet if you want healthy, luscious locks. Some key sources of protein include:
- Lean meats
- Oily fish (like salmon and mackerel)
- Eggs
- Seeds and nuts
- Beans and legumes
- Spinach
- Kale
You could also strengthen your follicles by applying an egg yolk mask. In addition to featuring protein, yolks include folate, biotin, and vitamins A and D, which can improve hair health and growth.
Consider Natural Oils
Incorporating natural oils into your hair care routine can work wonders for strengthening and nourishing your locks. Argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are particularly beneficial as they penetrate the hair shaft and provide deep moisturisation without weighing your hair down.
Apply a small amount to damp hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends, to seal in moisture and reduce breakage. For an intensive treatment, massage warm coconut oil into your scalp and throughout your hair, leave it on overnight, and wash it out in the morning. This regular practice can help restore shine, reduce frizz, and create a protective barrier against environmental damage. Remember that a little goes a long way—start with a pea-sized amount and adjust as needed for your hair length and thickness.
Address Early Signs Of Hair Loss
If you’ve noticed more hair than usual in your brush or shower drain, don’t panic—addressing hair loss early can make a significant difference. As the team behind The Treatment Rooms London tell us, hair thinning affects many people, particularly as they age, but there are several approaches to manage it effectively.
First, consult your GP or a trichologist to rule out any underlying health conditions. Consider trying caffeine-infused shampoos, which have shown promise in stimulating hair growth when used consistently. Supplements containing biotin, zinc, and iron may also support hair retention, though it’s best to have your levels tested before beginning any regimen. Minimise tight hairstyles that pull on your follicles, such as ponytails or buns, as these can contribute to traction alopecia over time.
Most importantly, manage stress through mindfulness, yoga, or meditation, as chronic stress can significantly impact hair growth cycles. Remember that consistency is key—most treatments take at least three months to show visible improvement.
The Bottom Line
Full, manageable hair doesn’t come easily. Indeed, luscious locks need nurturing and feeding if they’re to remain at their best throughout spring and beyond. Good luck!
