Isn’t it amazing how many commercials you see on TV for men’s hair products that claim to promote healthy hair? I mean, come on, let’s be real! There is no such thing as “healthy hair”. Hair is made up of protein and keratin, simple as that. The hair itself has no blood supply and no nervous system. Hair is not alive, so it cannot be “healthy”. Because hair is not a living structure, it cannot repair itself and must be properly maintained to preserve its strength, elasticity, and shine. Shampoos that claim to “repair damage” are simply lying, hair cannot be repaired. Once hair is damaged, the only way to “repair” it is to cut it. Just like your car, your hair needs proper maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your hair looking great and healthy!

dry carefully

Towel drying is one of the main causes of damage. Let’s face it, we love to grab the towel and rub our hair like crazy until it’s dry. The problem is that when hair is wet, it is also very easily damaged. When we rub our hair with a towel, some of the hairs become entangled in the towel threads and stretched to the point of breaking, causing cuticle damage and split ends. To minimize damage from towel drying, shake off excess water and then dry your hair by moving the towel over your hair in the direction it grows. Remember, damage that’s already done can’t be repaired, but after a few haircuts, you’ll see the difference.

Blow drying is also another cause of hair damage. It dries out both the hair and the scalp. I’m just not a big fan of the blow dryer, but if you must use it, follow these tips. First, to avoid blow-drying damage, apply a thermal styling spray to your hair. This will protect the hair from a comb and protect it from heat damage. Next, be sure to hold the blow dryer 6 to 10 inches away from the hair and move it quickly from side to side. This will prevent the hair from being damaged by heat. Finally, avoid drying your hair completely; Leaving your hair slightly damp will prevent it from drying out.

Easy on that comb, man

When hair is wet, keep away from damage by using a wide-toothed comb or brush. This will limit the damage caused by a comb or brush pulling on the hair.

wash in warm water

Water that is too hot can dry out your hair and scalp. Take it easy in the heat.

Avoid chemical abuse

Repeatedly dyeing your hair or using any kind of chemical can wreak havoc on your head. The chemicals used to process hair can be harmful to the hair and scalp. I do not condone the use of household chemicals. A good barber or stylist will know how to properly prepare your hair and scalp and will help you choose the best product to protect your hair from damage.

don’t wash too much

Feel free to shampoo every day. Shampoos are designed to deposit softening, moisturizing, and protective agents into the hair shaft. Remember that when you shampoo, focus on cleaning the scalp, the hair will be clean enough just by rinsing the shampoo out of the hair.

Make hair grow faster and stronger

Drinking plenty of water, taking your daily vitamins, living in a stress-free mode, getting enough sleep and eating right will help promote faster hair growth. Hair is often a reflection of the entire body, which means that a healthy, well-maintained body is likely to have strong, shiny, healthy-looking hair.

Get rid of the ponytail and the baseball cap

Try to avoid wearing tight ponytails or baseball caps because it can cause “traction alopecia.” This practically means that you have a tight style that leads to breaking and pulling the hair out of the scalp. If you do this too much, the damage will become permanent. If you have to wear a baseball cap or ponytail to keep your hair out of your face, then maybe it’s time for a haircut that suits your lifestyle.

Control frizz

Frizzy hair is caused by a low amount of moisture and protein. To control frizz, use a good moisturizing conditioner. You can also apply a “smoothing” serum to add shine and manageability.

Brighten dull hair

Hair becomes dull when the cuticle (the outer layers of the hair shaft) is damaged. Well-maintained cuticle layers lay flat (like fish scales) and reflect light. When the cuticle is damaged or lifted, the hair tends to get caught on other hair shafts and reflects light poorly, leading to a dull appearance. Following the steps discussed above will help protect the cuticle and lighten dull hair.

look at the pool water

Pool water contains chemicals that can dry out, damage and discolor hair. To minimize damage from chlorine and other chemicals, always dampen hair with tap water before entering the pool. This will help prevent your hair from absorbing the pool water. I recommend taking a spray bottle filled with tap water and a tablespoon of conditioner into the pool. Before you get in the pool (and often during the swim), thoroughly wet your hair with your water and conditioner mixture. This will help prevent damage, dryness, and discoloration from pool water. If you notice discoloration, using a clarifying shampoo (discussed in “Styling Tips”) may help.

Use the right styling product

Using the right styling product is essential to keeping your hair in great shape. Many over-the-counter products contain harsh chemicals and alcohol that can damage and contribute to many common hair problems.

Caring for straight hair

Wash every other day with a mild shampoo and follow with a light conditioner. If you maintain a longer style, have it trimmed every six weeks to eliminate split ends. Pomade will help keep hair relaxed and natural while adding shine and separation.

Take care of weakened hair

Choose water-based products that don’t leave a heavy residue or weigh hair down and give it volume and lift. A thickening shampoo and conditioner will help. Keep the cut short and choppy and it will appear fuller. Longer hair will make hair look thin and stringy.

Caring for wavy hair

To minimize excessive volume, use a moisturizing product and a dense conditioner to add weight. A medium length cut will work well for a versatile look. For styling, an oil-based pomade (such as Baxter of California Water Pomade) will add shine and weight.

caring for curly hair

The structure of curly hair can prevent natural oils from reaching the ends of the hair, leaving it looking frizzy. Use a strong moisturizer to keep hair soft. Keeping your hair short will help maintain a neat appearance. Longer hairstyles should be layered to reduce volume. Wash your hair no more often than every other day and follow up with a good conditioner. A good leave-in conditioner will help add extra moisture. Comb your hair with an anti-frizz serum.