Everyone wants prettier, younger-looking hair. But how exactly do you get it? While good products and regular cuts are important, these tips are essential for amazing hair, too.
Use Oils
Essential oils are chock-full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals, which are super beneficial for your hair, and more importantly, your scalp—without a healthy scalp, your hair isn’t set up for healthy growth. One that features botanicals and omegas, like Oil Essentials, can keep your hair looking young and healthy.
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Keep the pH Balanced
Believe it or not, when the pH of your hair is off balance—think too acidic or too alkaline—it throws off how your hair looks, feels and acts. Naturally, the hair falls more on the acidic side (think 4 to 5.5), which keeps it free of bacteria and other damaging factors. One way to get your hair back to a healthy pH is to wash with an acid vinegar rinse, which also gives a deep clean and make the hair reflect light properly so it’s healthy and shiny.
Load Up on Omega Acids
Celebrity stylist John Blaine stresses the importance of omega acids 3, 6, 7 and 9 for healthy hair. “Omega 7 is definitely the priciest of the bunch, due to it being the most powerful in terms of nourishing your scalp, but it does such a great job of nourishing your hair. It protects against environmental damage and heat damage,” he says.
Watch What You Eat
Your diet has a direct effect on your hair, so stick with antioxidant-, nutrient- and vitamin-rich foods, which feed your scalp and create healthier, younger-looking hair.
Add in a Supplement
Oral supplements are jam-packed with good-for-your-hair vitamins, namely vitamins A, B, C, D and E.
Do the Right Hair Treatments
Ian Michael Black, Aveda global artistic director for hair color, says nothing makes your hair look as youthful as when it’s shiny and in good condition. “Take the time to invest in getting your hair in the best possible condition. Use weekly conditioning treatments at home to build strength in your hair and improve shine,” he says. Specialized professional treatments at the salon can make a world of difference in how your hair looks and behaves, but choosing the right one is key. Blaine says to go with deep-conditioning treatments when dryness is a problem and you want immediate results.
Add Some Body
New York celebrity stylist Antonio Prieto says that youthful hair is healthy hair. “Maintaining bounce and body in your hair will keep it looking full and more youthful,” he says. “Using mousse that is collagen-based, like Kerastase Mousse Bouffante ($29), that has the hold of a traditional mousse with bounce, gives a more youthful look.”
