That being said, from the runways to social media, healthy, bouncy, hair is everywhere – a stark contrast from the care-free styles of the lockdown days, right? So, on the internet the instructions are clear: switch your shampoo, marinate your head in a hydrating mask, stop blow-drying and straightening, and book for a trim every month.

But what if you’re already doing all of this and still don’t have the kind of hair that would make Bella Hadid weep?

Here’s the inside scoop on healthy, shiny hair:

• Check your diet. Healthy, shiny hair starts from within. Of course we’re talking a balanced diet, but packing in the proteins and healthy fats will not only give your hair an extra boost, but will also keep you fuller for longer. A good supplement with added iron, zinc and Omega-3 fatty acids might be a good idea.
• Drink more water. When you’re dehydrated your hair loses lustre and looks limp.
• Shampoo less. Wash your mane every two days with a gentle shampoo to avoid stripping it of its natural oils.
• Condition with care. In addition to using regular conditioner, treat your locks (especially your ends) to a weekly intensive mask.
• Apply apple cider vinegar once a month. This TikTok-inspired hair treatment will help to restore the natural pH balance and remove all product residue. It’s the all-natural gloss booster. Use 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water (depending on the length of your hair), let it sit for 5 minutes, and rinse. Follow up with shampoo and conditioner.
• Keep it cool. Keep your shower temperature down to get maximum shine. Then blast with cold water to close your hair’s cuticle and to smooth the hair shaft.
• Avoid rubbing your hair with a towel. Gently pat wet hair with an old t-shirt to prevent breakage, split ends and damage.
• Use a wide-tooth comb when your hair is wet and invest in a boar-bristle brush to minimize damage.
• Go easy on styling products. If you have to use hair spray, gel, wax, or mousse, make sure to wash them off at the end of the day to prevent product residue on your hair or scalp.
• Limit heat styling and always use protection. Air dry your hair when at all possible. Use a thermal protecting styling product before even looking at a blow-dryer or heat styler.
• Avoid harmful chemicals. Speak to your hair stylist about ammonia-free hair colour.
• Sleep on a silk pillow case. Silk pillow cases don’t absorb moisture from your hair and are less likely to cause split ends.
• Get regular trims. A cut every 4 to 12 weeks will keep your hair smooth and healthy.

Hair is so much a part of our identity and when it doesn’t look or feel it’s best, neither do we.

The one thing all good hair days have in common is good condition. Cultivating a healthy hair care routine is key.

You can have beautiful hair, even without expensive salon treatments.

Source: cosmopolitan.com, stylecraze.com, glamour.co.za, womenshealthmag.com, elle.com, realsimple.com, allthingshair.com, birchbox.com, wikihow.com, brit.co, womanandhome.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.