Love your hair everyday

Though we all look forward to the monsoon for respite from the sweltering heat, rainy days often signal bad hair days. But problems like taming frizz and reducing hairfall are manageable. Here's a handy guide for easy monsoon hair revival with expert ideas to keep your strands healthy and shiny.

Your hair, just like your face, tends to show signs of ageing as you grow older. Make sure your hair stays strong and healthy with these expert-approved tips. Plus, some suggestions to make colouring easier this monsoon season.

A SHOW OF STRENGTH

Just like muscles and bones, hair too can get more fragile and sparse as we age (thank you, hormones), which means it needs targetted care. Incorporating these treatments will help you get to the root of the problem.

What: Hair Thinning

Try: Minoxidil

"It's a bit like fertiliser for the hair," says Paradi Mirmirani, MD, a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Minoxidil has been well studied and there's good evidence that it increases the diameter of each strand, the density of hair and the rate at which hair grows." Minoxidil is available both as 2% and 5% formulations in lotion, gel and foam formula. You can buy the 2% formulation without a prescription and it's generally recommended to tackle hair loss termed telogen effluvium', explains Dr Navin Taneja, medical director, The National Skin Center, New Delhi. However, experts add that the effect may take time to show up. It's advisable to consult a dermat-ologist before using minoxidil since it may have side-effects, says Dr Aparna Santhanam, Mumbai-based dermatologist and author of Hair.

What: Slow Growth

Try: Anti-dandruff shampoo

It sounds surprising, but research suggests that the zinc pyrithione (ZPT) in anti-dandruff shampoo may promote hair growth-even if you don't have flakes. A time-tested ingredient, "it is especially good if you're dealing with build-up or scalp scaling," says Mirmirani. Try Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti-Danduff Shampoo, Rs 135, which also helps cool the scalp. Besides that, a high-protein diet may also help accelerate hair growth.

What: Weakened Strands

Try: Natural oils

"Oils improve hair's tensile strength," says Mirmirani. There's a bonus too: "They help smoothen the cuticle which can be lifted by wear and tear." Give yourself a head massage to boost blood circulation and nourish strands with Omved Rs 540. Besides promoting hair growth, it has bhringraj to prevent premature greying. You can also support weak strands with Wella Professionals Oil Reflections, Rs 850, which has macademia seed oil, avocado oil and Vitamin E. It can be used for conditioning post shampoo to style your mane. The serum also boosts shine and makes your hair feel softer.

TREATMENTS

Prevention spoke to natural beauty expert Suparna Trikha for easy, natural remedies for 4 common hair woes during monsoons.

FIX: FRIZZY HAIR

What causes it: Curly hair gets frizzier than straight hair as their cuticles are more open compared to straight hair in which the cuticles are flat, explains Coleen Khan, hair stylist and Pantene hair expert based in Mumbai. Rinse your hair with cold water: it allows the cuticles to stay flat and also smoothens frizz, advises Mark Hampton, Global Ambassador for Toni & Guy.

What you need: A hair mayonnaise

How to make it: Take 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (used in salad dressings), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of honey. Blend well, apply on hair and keep it on for 20 minutes. Rinse clean.

FIX: FLAT-LOOKING HAIR/LIMP HAIR

What causes it: During the monsoons, our strands tend to absorb a lot of moisture from the air. If you have straight hair, the extra humidity leaves your hair flat, explains LA-based hairstylist Marcus Francis for Tresemme.

What you need: A leave-in conditioner How to make it: Take 200 ml flat beer (no fizz) and add 200 ml water to it. Use it on scalp after shampoo. Let it dry naturally to get a beer bounce.

FIX: HAIRFALL What causes it: Hair trauma could be a combination of harsh detergents in shampoos, weather, poor nutrition and more. Look for sulphate-free shampoos that don't strip your hair of its natural oils, says Dr Kiran Lohia, medical director, Lumiere Dermatology, New Delhi. Make sure you nourish your strands and boost blood circulation with a good Ayurvedic oil massage, advises Trikha.

What you need: Hair mask.

How to make it: Take 2 cups of fresh hibiscus leaves, 2 cups of neem leaves, 5 bay leaves. Add 10 peppercorns and 20-30 holy basil leaves to it. Blend it until it becomes a green smoothie. Smear on hair after an oil massage, like a henna application. Use a mild shampoo to rinse off.

FIX: CLOGGED SCALP

What causes it: Sometimes over usage of serums, oils, shampoos and conditioners can clog your scalp too. The sweat and humidity at this time of the year only adds to it. Make sure you wash your hair thoroughly without vigorous rubbing. "Look for shampoos containing salicylic acid which may reduce the residue, allowing your scalp to breathe," suggests Lohia.

What you need: A wake-me-up shampoo

How to make it: Take 1/2 cup fullers' earth, juice of 1 lemon, 50 g powdered mint and 1 teaspoon honey. Add some toned milk and water in equal quantities to make a paste. Shampoo with it to get a flake-free scalp that leaves you feeling fresh too.

There's nothing like a neat colour job that'll keep others guessing your age. But this season can even make colouring more tedious. The humidity in the air effects the hair porosity leading to more frequent applications and breakage, explains Santhanam. Here are some factors that you may want to keep in mind:

Choose an age-defying shade. Most experts believe that one should pick a hue within a shade or two close to your natural hair colour. In almost any brand, you can opt for shades which have a base of shade numbers from 1 to 4, these are the basic shades of black and brown, says Agnes Chen, Streax Expert based in Mumbai.

If you go too dark, it may sometimes get more attention to your face and its imperfections (read pigmentation, fine lines etc). If you go too light a shade, it may just not suit you, warns Lohia. With dark brown and black hair, warm tones usually look better because it complements the skin tone rather than washing it out. Colours like golden brown, chocolate, caramel and burgundy work best with brown or black hair. Light brown hair can play a bit more with cooler tones but still needs the balance of warmer tones to perfect the look, says Francis.

Know the formulas. Pick a colour on the basis of how many greys you have and then pick demi or permanent colour. Semi or demi hair dyes are ammonia-free and have little to no peroxide, explain both Chabbra and Taneja.

Since the colour molecule is smaller, it does minimal damage to the hair shaft and rinses out in 12-24 washes. Permanent hair colour alters the pH balance of your hair, says Lohia. You can lighten your hair since it has peroxide allowing the colour to attach to the hair shaft. If you have more than 40% greys on your crown, then permanent colour is a better option. The molecule is bigger and stronger and grows out with your hair, explains Francis.

Break the monotony with highlights. Light-hued highlights can actually hide imperfections and take away attention from them. It may help accentuate your colour, making your hair seem thicker and more voluminous. Choose a shade 2-3 shades lighter than the global colour. So if you have medium brown hair, then go for honey-blonde or light brown highlights, suggests Chen.

Go pro with at-home touch ups. Frequent salon trips can sometimes be a bit too steep and cumbersome. And with easy-to-use home kits, colouring at home shouldn't be too problematic or time consuming. Start with doing a patch test behind your ear or inner side of the arm to prevent contact allergic reaction, advises Taneja. Make sure you have your tools in place: brush, towel and colour kit in place. Put a thick layer of petroleum jelly on your face, neck and back to avoid staining. A good tip if you're going darker is to start from the back; if you're going lighter start in the front, shares Francis. Make sure you rinse thoroughly. 

8 Sexy Hairstyles for Girls with Long Hair

The best thing about long hair is that you can style them in various ways. So if you are bored of your monotonous hairstyle, then try something new. Donning a new sexy hairstyle does not mean that you have to rush to your hairstylist right now. Just twist and turn your hair to get them in new styles. So, take a look at some sexy and easy hairdos that you can flaunt anywhere anytime.

Let your ponytail flirt with your face

Ponytail is one hairdo which is quick, easy and comfortable. But, you can ditch the traditional sleek ponytail for a flirty one. All you have to do is tease the roots around the forehead of your head. Leave a few flicks hanging at your forehead to ace that flirtatious look (like Jennifer Aniston's look in the image below). Or make a nice puff at the crown (just like Deepika's hairstyle below). For some extra bounce, use flexible-hold spray to fluff up the length.

Add some bangs

To keep your long hair from looking dull and boring, add bangs. Bangs will give altogether a fresh look to your face. Fringes are best way to accentuate your facial features. So, pair wavy hair with straight bangs or side-swept bangs with pulled back section.

Curl up your mane

Curl up your mane if you want a sophisticated yet classy look. You can have super sized curls with the help of heated rollers or get a surfer girl waves (just like Kate Hudson's locks in the image below). For the latter, you would need to mist your hair with the help of wave-making salt-infused styler, and then twist small pieces of your locks around your fingers to give them a twist. If you have natural waves then highlight a few strands of your hair to break the monotony.

Side-swept hair strands

If you feel like adding some drama to your hairstyle, then simply gather your hair and pull them to one side. See what is your best side of the face that you do not mind showing off. Put a little hair spray on your strands, and then pull them to one side of your face completely.

Sport super sleek strands

Take out that straightening iron from your cupboard and use it to get super-sleek mane. Depending upon your face structure, you can either straighten your hair with center or side partition. If you want to add extra oomph factor to your look, then slicked-back strands is the perfect hairdo for it. To get the look, iron your hair first then apply gel from hairline to crown. Do use a protective styling spray before you clamp down to get this chic look.

Opt for braids

Yes, you read it right. Braids are back in vogue, but here is how you can give them a stunning twist. Instead of tying them at the centre, pull all your hair on one side and braid straight down. This is known as a side-swept French braid. You can also style your braid in a crown form or go the traditional milkmaid way.

Make a bun

Bun is a perfect hairdo for summers. It is neat and trendy at the same time. You can either opt for slicked-back high bun or sleek side-swept low bun. To get the side-swept look, part your hair to one side and make a loose bun, just above the nape of your neck. This amazing hairdo is easy to achieve with mid to long length locks.

Faux your way with a bob

If one fine day you feel like going for a short style, then just tuck your hair up into itself till the length you want and pin it underneath your hair with the help of bobby pins. This will make your hair short and will give you an awesome look.

So, what are you waiting for? Try these exciting hairstyles for different outings and surprise the guests with your new sexy avatars!

How to Combat Hair Loss Due to Stress?

Every woman wishes to twist and turn her hair into various hairstyles. But, there is always that one unexpected thing that confuses and terrifies them- hair fall! Lovers of luscious locks cannot seem to find out the real reason behind it, and in turn end up getting more anxious. Not many girls admit it, but erratic working hours, sleepless nights and most importantly stress often causes hair fall. So, let us explore some easy tips that can prevent hair fall and promote beautiful tresses.

Hangout

Whether you are a housewife or a working woman, following the same routine day in and day out can leave you physically drained and mentally exhausted. This can further lead to stress, creating problems like hair loss. So, do not sit at home worrying about it, rather catch a movie or go on a lunch date with your best buddies. By doing this, your mind will become calm and will give way to healthy skin and hair.

Try something new

There is no denying to the fact that your hair is connected to your physical well-being. So, to keep your hair strong, the first thing you need is to have a right fitness plan. Choose the exercise you love doing the most, say may be learning a dance form, working out in a gym or a jog in the nearby park. But most importantly, try new things to keep the workout boredom at bay. Go for Pilates, aerobics, bhangra aerobics, yoga, meditation, water aerobics, etc.

You are what you eat

Eating right will not only help you to get rid of stress, but also your hair fall. Eat small portions throughout the day. Try having eggs, fruits, nuts, fish, oats and milk. The nutrients like protein and Omega-3 fatty acids in these foods help in strengthening your hair roots. Avoid too much caffeine; replace it by healthy drinks like fresh juices, green tea, etc. Start taking vitamin and mineral supplements like vitamin C, calcium and B-complex. These will also help prevent hair loss and promote shinier and longer hair.

Reboot your hair

Make time for some head massages with essential oils like coconut, olive, and almond. Lavender, orange, hibiscus (flower), and rosemary extracts can also be added to these oils to discourage hair fall. Try going for a hair spa once in a while as it will nourish your hair, and de-stress your mind too.

Adequate sleep

According to a hair loss clinic in Britain, the Belgravia Centre, “Lack of sleep has been shown to affect the body’s immune function, hormone secretion, and physical and mental stamina. Hair is very sensitive to changes within the body, and hair loss is nearly always the consequence of these internal disturbances."

Well, now that you know how stress can weaken your lustrous mane, it is best to steer clear of it. And, if you still cannot forego it, follow these tips to keep your hair strong and shiny. 

Beauty Benefits of Coconut Water for Skin and Hair

Well! delightfully, coconut water is not just a drink to give you a soothing and relaxing feeling on your beach holiday or in the scorching summer heat. But, this healthy and nutritious drink is fast emerging as the popular beverage choice for avid health conscious people around the world. Besides the innumerable health benefits of drinking coconut water, applying it has an amazing effect on the skin and hair. It provides you with a glowing and beautiful skin, and soft and shiny hair that you have always desired. So, take a look at a few amazing beauty benefits of this refreshing drink.

The Secret to a Healthy Skin

Leave aside drinking; the mere application of coconut water can make your skin glow instantly. It can even act as a natural moisturiser and keep pimples at bay. 

It brings an instant glow to your skin. For this, wash your face with coconut water every day. This will soon give you a glowing, smooth, and even-toned skin. 

Also, a pack of turmeric, coconut water, and red sandalwood paste will help you get a smooth and flawless complexion.

As it is light in consistency, it can also be used as a natural moisturiser. It helps in reducing the oil and greasiness of the skin. It is highly recommended for people with oily skin.

It can cure your sun tan as well. For this, apply a pack of multani mitti (fuller’s earth) and coconut water daily. This natural face pack removes tan and dark spots, leaving your skin with a radiant glow.

Washing your face daily with fresh coconut water can also help you to prevent blackheads, acne, blemishes and pimples that often take away your good night’s sleep.

If you have a dry and dull skin, a splash of coconut water or a gentle dab of it can rehydrate your skin instantly. Besides this, coconut water is a fantastic hydrating alternative to water. Drinking it can cure dehydration, thereby keeping your skin soft and supple. It is this dehydration in the body which does not allow the excretion of body toxins, leading to several skin related ailments. 

For your beautiful hair

Benefits of coconut on your dull and frizzy hair are umpteen. No! it is not the coconut oil that is being discussed here. It is fresh coconut water that can do wonders to your otherwise lifeless hair.

It addresses the issue of hair loss by improving blood circulation in the scalp. And, it is this proper blood flow, which enhances the density of hair and strengthens the hair follicles preventing it from breakage.

Massaging hair with coconut water every day can bid adieu to unruly, rough and frizzy hair. It makes your hair smooth, soft, and shiny. With its powerful hydrating properties, coconut water moisturises your hair roots, giving them much strength. It can also be used as a natural conditioner.

It comes with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, which prevents itchy scalp, dandruff, and other infections that hinder hair growth.

So, what are you waiting for? Explore the umpteen beauty benefits of coconut water, and flaunt your glowing skin and shiny smooth locks.  

15 Natural Ways to Get Long and Shiny Hair

With age and stress, we encounter many hair problems. Girls often go crazy in search of a solution to combat various hair problems. Over the years, many technologies and techniques have been developed to combat hair loss and promote hair growth. But, why should you sacrifice your hair quality with chemical options, especially if you are a soon-to-be bride. Experimenting with harmful chemicals will only leave your hair dull, frizzy and lifeless. That is why, we have combined 15 powerful natural remedies to speed up your hair growth and combat hair problems.

Potato juice

A lesser known remedy; potato juice helps to fight hair loss and thicken your strands. So, if you want to see your hair grow naturally, use some potato juice.

How to apply: Use potato juice on your scalp and leave it for 15 minutes, before you wash it off. Vitamin B in potatoes makes your hair longer and stronger.

Henna pack

A well-known natural conditioner for hair; it has also been nicknamed as 'hair alchemist' for its ability to transform grey and dull hair, into shiny ones. It also works on the roots of your existing hair to promote hair growth.

How to apply: Mix half a cup of curd with a cup of henna powder, and keep it aside for a couple of hours. After that apply the paste on your scalp. Wait till it dries completely and then wash it off.

Egg mask

Being rich in proteins, selenium, phosphorous, zinc, iron, sulphur and iodine, eggs are one of the best hair care ingredients to fight hair loss. Eggs also help in thickening of the hair strands. Add to this, some olive oil and you have an excellent hair pack.

How to apply: Make a smooth paste comprising of an egg white, and a tablespoon each of olive oil and honey. Apply it uniformly on your scalp and leave it for an hour. Rinse it off with cold water and shampoo. Olive oil would help to strengthen dry and damaged strands.

Cayenne pepper

This pepper has the special ability to stimulate hair growth. It also resists thinning of hair.

How to apply: Mix 1 part of pepper with 2 parts of olive oil and apply it on your hair. Rinse it off with cold water.

Coconut milk

Coconut milk being rich in proteins, iron, potassium and essential fats, reduces hair shedding and breakage. 

How to apply:  Take coconut milk and apply it on the scalp. Keep it overnight and rinse it off the next day. (Also read on Beauty Benefits of Coconut Water for Skin and Hair)

Green tea

Green tea being rich in antioxidants helps to fight hair problems. It is also rich in polyphenols and has anti-inflammatory properties which facilitate hair growth.

How to apply: Prepare a solution, by taking two green tea bags and soak them in a cup of hot water. Use this water to rinse your scalp. Also, include green tea in your daily diet to combat hair loss.

Amla

Amla is a storehouse of vitamin C and antioxidants. It not only promotes hair growth, but also helps to fight scalp pigmentation.

How to apply: Mix equal portions of amla powder and lime juice. Apply this mix on the scalp. Allow it to dry, before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Also, regular application of amla oil will make the hair black and strong.

Grape seed oil

This particular oil stimulates the hair follicles and helps in hair restoration. It is also good for those with curly hair, as it would make their hair more manageable.

How to apply: Massage your scalp with this oil before you go to sleep at night. Wash it off the next morning for good hair growth.

Aloe vera and honey

Aloe vera is rich in vitamin A, B, E, selenium and many other nutrients. It is good for your hair as it conditions your scalp and gets rid of dandruff. 

How to apply: You can apply aloe vera gel on your scalp and leave it overnight. Wash it off the next morning for a clean scalp. You can also take some aloe vera gel and mix it with honey, in equal parts. Apply it on your scalp. Leave it undisturbed for 30 minutes and then wash it off with cold water.

Oatmeal hair pack

Oatmeal is a great natural moisturiser for the hair. It not only makes your hair smooth and strong, but also helps to get rid of dandruff.

How to apply: To make an oatmeal hair mask, mix half a cup of oats with 2 tablespoons of almond oil and a quarter cup of milk. Apply this mask from roots to tips. Leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. Always make sure that your hair is tangle-free and dry before you apply this mask.

Onion juice

Onions being rich in sulphur help in the production of the collagen tissues, which in time will regenerate your hair follicles. Other than this, onions also stimulate circulation of blood, and help in keeping your scalp clean.

How to apply: Cut a few onions into small pieces and squeeze the juice out of them. Apply this juice on your scalp; keep it for at least 30-45 minutes, before applying a shampoo. Since onions have a pungent smell, you can add some rose water or some honey to it.

Apple cider vinegar

Vinegar helps to restore pH balance in your hair, in case of an alkaline disturbance. Restoration and maintenance of acidic balance helps to accelerate hair growth. It also makes the hair strands shinier and stronger. It also removes residues of the chemicals of your hair products, from your scalp.

How to apply: Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar with water, and use this mixture for your last rinse after shampoo. This will leave you with healthier hair.

Lemon juice

Similar to vinegar, lime juice helps to balance the pH level of the scalp and promotes hair growth.

How to apply: Soak a handful of almonds in water overnight. Next morning remove their skin and grind them. Mix this with 2 tablespoon of lemon juice. Massage your scalp with the paste and leave it on for 20 minutes. Wash it off once it has dried.

Eat right and reduce stress

Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, meat and fish. Eat the right kinds of fat and stay away from oily stuff. Make sure you are getting a sufficient intake of iron, zinc and vitamin C. Stress is one of the prime accused in aiding hair problem. Reduce stress from your life- both emotional and physical. Get some fresh air periodically and do some sort of exercise daily. So, get enough sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle. (Also read on How to Combat Hair Loss Due to Stress)

Reduce styling damages

Excessive styling can hurt your hair. Mechanical curling, straightening, chemical bleach and colour, or using gel in inappropriate amounts can hamper your hair considerably. Always brush your hair sparingly and comb delicately. Clean your hair carefully and do not stress your hair unnecessarily.

Now you know how to get those strong and shiny locks. So, try these out starting from today, and make others go jealous with your long and gorgeous hair.

8 Ways to Remove Your Hair Colour Easily

Hair colouring is one of the hottest hair makeover trends, around the world. Hair colour shades are available in a huge variety, starting from burgundy, brown, gold moving up to vibrant colours like red, blue, etc. However, getting your hair coloured is a simpler process than removing it. So, here are some easy and amazing tips to remove your hair colour, at the comfort of your home.

Use clothing detergents

Natural laundry detergents have high contents of chemicals that help in washing away almost 75% of the dye from the hair. So, try washing the hair using detergents that do not have any bleach or bleaching agents. Only one tablespoon of detergent is enough at a time. However, after-wash care is very important for your hair, because there are chemicals in it that can make the hair very dry and frizzy.

Use Vitamin C tablets

Crush some Vitamin C tablets, dissolve them in water and make a paste. Apply this on damp hair. Keep it for an hour before you rinse it off. The acid in the tablet will help in breaking the chemical composition of the dye. Just 2 to 3 washes are enough to remove most of the colour from your hair.

Hot oil massage

Hot oil is an effective and natural way. Massage some hot oil evenly on your hair roots and tips. After that, wrap your hair in a clean towel and leave it for an hour. Rinse it off wth hot water. It will not only remove colour from the hair but also nourish the dehydrated hair follicles.

Use baking soda

Bicarbonate soda is a natural bleaching agent; it can easily lighten the shade of your hair colour. Make a paste by mixing equal quantities of baking soda and your shampoo. Wet your hair with warm water and massage this paste on your strands. Rinse it off after a few minutes. Use this paste a few times to see effective results.

Squeeze out some lemon juice

Citric acid in lemon can naturally lighten your hair colour. Squeeze out some fresh lemon juice and apply it on your hair. After this, cover your head with a shower cap for a few minutes, before shampooing it out with some warm water.

Use anti-dandruff shampoo

An anti-dandruff shampoo is much stronger than your normal shampoo and contains higher percentage of sebum. So, wash your hair with anti-dandruff shampoo for seven to eight times at a gap of every 2 to 3 days to get the hair colour out. You can mix some baking powder in your anti-dandruff shampoo to see faster results.

Use hair colour remover

Hair colouring can be of various types like permanent, semi-permanent and temporary colouring. Various hair colour removing creams and lotions are available in the market that helps in removing the hair colour without much trouble in approximately 1 to 4 washes, depending on the type of hair colour used.

Use bleach and dye the hair again

Try this method as your last resort. Bleaching your hair scrapes-out the natural hair colour by removing its natural melanin. It leaves your hair with an etched or blonde look. So, after bleaching your hair, dye them back in your natural colour.

Removing hair colour is a tough job that needs patience. The chemicals and procedures can have harmful effects on your hair, like causing dryness, roughness and hair fall. So, proper care of your hair is very important, once the colour is removed.

8 Homemade Hair Treatments

Eggs, yogurt and honey are, at first glance, all components of a tasty breakfast—but they also happen to be hair treatment ingredients, and affordable, all-natural ones at that. And they're not the only ones. Did you know, for instance, that the oils in avocados more closely resemble our own skin's oils than any product in the beauty aisle does? Or that the mild acidity in lemon is an effective—and gentler—alternative to chemical-laden products? Next time your locks need a lift, save money by using one of these kitchen fixes.

For All Hair Types

"The [raw] egg is really the best of all worlds," says Janice Cox, author of Natural Beauty at Home. The yolk, rich in fats and proteins, is naturally moisturizing, while the white, which contains bacteria-eating enzymes, removes unwanted oils, she explains.

To Use: For normal hair, use the entire egg to condition hair; use egg whites only to treat oily hair; use egg yolks only to moisturize dry, brittle hair, Cox says. Use 1/2 cup of whichever egg mixture is appropriate for you and apply to clean, damp hair. If there isn’t enough egg to coat scalp and hair, use more as needed. Leave on for 20 minutes, rinse with cool water (to prevent egg from “cooking”) and shampoo hair. Whole egg and yolks-only treatments can be applied once a month; whites-only treatment can be applied every two weeks.

For Dull Hair

Styling products (as well as air pollution) can leave a film that both saps moisture and dulls shine—but dairy products like sour cream and plain yogurt can help reverse this damage. "Lactic acid gently strips away dirt while the milk fat moisturizes," says Lisa Belkin, author of The Cosmetics Cookbook.

To Use: Massage 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt into damp hair and let sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water, followed by cool water, then shampoo hair as you normally would. Treatment can be applied every other week.

For Itchy Scalp

To fight flakes—brought on by poor diet, stress and climate, among other factors—try a lemon juice and olive oil mixture in your hair. "The acidity in lemon juice helps rid your scalp of any loose, dry flakes of skin, while the olive oil moisturizes the [newly exposed] skin on your head," says Cox.

To Use: Mix 2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice, 2 Tbsp olive oil and 2 Tbsp water, and massage into damp scalp. Let mixture sit for 20 minutes, then rinse and shampoo hair. Treatment can be applied every other week.

 For Limp or Fine Hair

To add body to hair, reach for an unlikely beauty beverage: beer! The fermented drink contains generous supplies of yeast, which works to plump tired tresses, explains Cox.

To Use: Mix 1/2 cup flat beer (pour beer into a container and let it sit out for a couple of hours to deplete carbonation) with 1 tsp light oil (sunflower or canola) and a raw egg. Apply to clean, damp hair, let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse with cool water. Or add flat beer only to a spray bottle and spritz onto dry hair. "When the liquid evaporates, the remaining protein residue (from the wheat, malt or hops) continues to strengthen and structure hair," says Belkin. Treatments can be applied every other week.

For Dry or Sun-Damaged Hair

Whatever your hair-dehydrating demon—hard water, sun overexposure, your trusty flat iron—nature's sweetener can help. "Honey is a natural humectant, which means it attracts and locks in moisture," says Cox.

To Use: Massage approximately 1/2 cup honey into clean, damp hair, let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water. You can also add 1 to 2 Tbsp olive oil to loosen the honey for easier application. For extremely sun-damaged hair, trying mixing honey with 1 to 2 Tbsp of a protein-rich ingredient, like avocado or egg yolk, which will help replenish the keratin protein bonds that UV rays attack. Treatment can be applied once a month.

 For Oily or Greasy Hair

"Used properly, [cornmeal or cornstarch] is an inexpensive way to remove oil and grease," says Belkin.

To Use: Pour 1 Tbsp cornmeal or cornstarch into an empty salt or pepper shaker and sprinkle onto dry hair and scalp until you’ve used it all. After 10 minutes, use a paddle hairbrush to completely brush it out. Treatment can be applied every other day.

For Frizzy Hair

Home beauty experts swear by avocado—and not just to repair damaged hair. Its oils (which are light and moist like our own natural skin secretions) and proteins boast the best combination of nutrients for smoothing and weighing down unruly hair, explains Cox.

To Use: Mash up half an avocado and massage into clean, damp hair. Let sit for 15 minutes before rinsing with water. Amp up moisturizing power by combining mashed avocado with 1 to 2 Tbsp of a hydrating ingredient, like sour cream, egg yolks or mayonnaise. Treatment can be applied every two weeks.

For Residue-Ridden Hair

"Nothing eats through product buildup like baking soda," Cox says. Sodium bicarbonate essentially breaks down anything acidic.

To Use: Mix 1 to 2 Tbsp baking soda with small amounts of water until a thick paste forms. Massage into damp hair and let sit for 15 minutes. Rinse with water, then shampoo hair. Treatment can be applied every two weeks.

What Not To Do When Those First Gray Hairs Pop Up

Whether your first gray hairs pop up during your late teens or appear once you've reached your 50s, the experience can be quite nerve-racking. You start to question whether you should cover it up or wear it proudly.

Even though more women than ever are ditching hair dye to embrace their silver locks, there are still those who make major gray hair care mistakes. Here are five that you should avoid:

1. Plucking gray hairs

We've debunked this beauty myth before, but we can't stress this enough. There is zero benefit to plucking, according to Philip Kingsley trichologist Elizabeth Cunnane Phillips.

She explains, "Even though plucking cannot add to the number of follicles we have and it will not cause the surrounding hairs to turn grey, plucking can traumatize the follicle and repeated trauma to any follicle is not ideal. If there is a gray hair that you must get rid of, very carefully cut it."

2. Not researching your coloring options

If you choose to get your grays dyed professionally, Clairol Color director James Corbett urges you to ask these three questions: What are my color options? (I.e. Can I use a permanent or a non-ammonia based color?) What kind of maintenance will this require? Is there anything I can do at home to prolong the color?

"The second question is very important as some women are not able to see their colorist every time they need to color," says Corbett. A product like Root Touch-Up by Nice 'n Easy or Natural Instincts can be used in between visits, and be sure to go see your colorist perhaps every other or every third time you dye your hair.

Highlights are a great first step for color, as they blend in the grays so you can't really tell what's a highlight versus what's gray. The variation of the tones also provide more styling options with gray hair.

3. Going wild with permanent hair color at home

Non-permanent touch-up wands, pens and powders work well to conceal gray hairs. They are less harsh on hair, which makes them a safer alternative to permanent dying, according to Cunnane Phillips.

"Just make sure you are using touch-up products that are formulated free of ammonia and peroxide," she says. "Henna is a plant-based dye that does not contain damaging chemicals, and it's also a safe alternative to permanent dyes and chemical processes."

However, you shouldn't be afraid of coloring your hair. Corbett recommends using Natural Instincts, a non-ammonia based hair color, in either your current hair color shade or one to two shades darker.

"The non-permanent formula will not only blend in those grays, but also add a boost of shine and dimension to your color. Plus, it gradually washes out after 28 shampoos, so there is no heavy line of demarcation when the roots start to grow in again," he says.

4. Slacking on hair conditioning treatments

Gray hair can by coarse and wiry, so both experts suggest conditioning and doing so often. In order to defy the coarse nature of graying hair and to restore it to a smooth state, try a pre-shampoo treatment like Philip Kingsley Elasticizer or using the conditioner that comes inside your at-home hair color kit at lease once a week.

5. Neglecting nutritional vitamins and proteins in your diet

Studies have shown that if you have gray hair, it could be due to a lack of B vitamins in your diet. Cunnane Phillips believes healthy foods help feed hair the same way they nourish your body.

Cunnane Phillips adds, "Nutritionally focus on protein at breakfast and lunch (available energy to hair tissue is lowest in the morning), keep hydrated and choose healthy snacks like yogurt, nuts and fruits. Multivitamins can be helpful if dietary choices are not optimal. Also, Philip Kingsley PK4 Hair, a soy base protein, is very helpful if diets are limited in animal proteins."

13 Hair Mistakes You Need To Stop Making

We'd like to think that nobody knows our hair better than we do. (After all, it grows out of our very heads.) But it turns out even we are doing damage to our strands with bad habits we didn't even know about.

From shampooing too many times a week to going years without a decent haircut, celebrity hairstylists Ted Gibson and Kim Kimble break down the 13 most common hair mistakes we need to stop making.

1. Over-relaxing hair:

Relaxing hair that has already been processed leads to damage and breakage. You should always remember to only relax over newly grown hair. Go to a hairdresser for your relaxers. If you have over-relaxed hair, use conditioners, masks and protein treatments to rebuild your hair's strength.

2. Using at-home hair color:

This is a big no-no in Gibson's book. He says, "Generally, most women do not pick the right shade for their skin tone, they over-color their hair and the hair comes out very dark on the end. You'll wind up going to the salon for a correction anyway so start off on the good foot in the first place and save yourself the headache."

3. Cutting your own bangs:

We're all for do-it-yourself bangs. But unless you follow our step-by-step guide or watch YouTube videos like Gibson's, you should leave this in the hands of the professionals. "When most women cut their own bangs, they wind up too short or too wide making them look like an 8-year-old girl," Gibson says. "You should always cut your hair vertically, not horizontally. If you've botched your bangs, as always, see your hairdresser."

4. Over-washing hair:

You should never wash your hair every day. All this does is strip essential oils from you hair. Day-old hair styles better and generally looks better than freshly-washed hair. If you want to freshen up your locks in between shampoos, use a dry shampoo or try Ted Gibson Hair Sheet Styling.

5. Applying heat styling tools to wet hair:

When women rush to get ready, they often make this mistake. Hot tools like curling or flat irons dry out wet hair and scorch the follicle. Hair should always be 100 percent dry before using a heat styling tool. Gibson adds, "We all saw the YouTube video with the girl who burned off her hair with a curling wand. This happened because her hair was not totally dry before using it."

6. Using hair care products with alcohol and detergents:

Got dry, frizzy hair? Check the ingredients label on your go-to products to see if these two items are listed.

7. Detangling knots without patience:

Minimize frustration and eliminate more knots and kinks by zeroing in on the tangled hair. Smooth on a little conditioner before finger-combing to loosen up strands -- this lessens tears and rips up the hair shaft that often lead needing a haircut. Sit with the product on for a few minutes, then gently comb your hair with a medium-to-wide tooth comb.

8. Towel-drying hair too rough:

Just because you've watched movies where the beautiful blonde or brunette wrap up her freshly shampooed in a thick white towel, doesn't mean this is the right way to dry your hair. Towels can create a harsh friction against the hair cuticle that scrubs off leave-in conditioners and damages strands. An old T-shirt made out of microfiber is smoother and ideal for drying hair.

9. Slathering conditioner on entire head:

The ends of your hair should be the focus when putting on this super-hydrating product. When your scalp is covered in conditioner, you're likely to end up with a tacky film that leads to build-up.

10. Placing heat from blow dryer directly to hair:

You smell that? That's your hair frying from the blast of heat coming from your dryer. Kimble suggests constantly moving the blow dryer with just enough tension to get the job done sans damage.

11. Prolonging a haircut or trim:

Most women's obsession with growing long hair has kept them out of the salon without a much-needed cut. But this blasé attitude can lead to really bad split ends. Consult with your hairstylist on how often you should book an appointment for a trim.

12. Practicing bad ponytail habits:

We've all had that moment when there was not an elastic ponytail holder in reach, but there were plenty of rubber bands. But gathering your strands into the rubbery product causes breakage and split ends. Wearing your ponytail too tight or in the same position daily are also major don'ts.

13. Skipping nightly hair maintenance:

A lot of women don't do anything to their hair at night. So Kimble recommends investing in a silk pillowcase or bonnet to maintain moisture and volume because cotton dries your hair out.

Are you guilty of making any of these common hair mistakes? No judging over here!

Love your hair everyday

Though we all look forward to the monsoon for respite from the sweltering heat, rainy days often signal bad hair days. But problems like taming frizz and reducing hairfall are manageable. Here's a handy guide for easy monsoon hair revival with expert ideas to keep your strands healthy and shiny.

Your hair, just like your face, tends to show signs of ageing as you grow older. Make sure your hair stays strong and healthy with these expert-approved tips. Plus, some suggestions to make colouring easier this monsoon season.

A SHOW OF STRENGTH

Just like muscles and bones, hair too can get more fragile and sparse as we age (thank you, hormones), which means it needs targetted care. Incorporating these treatments will help you get to the root of the problem.

What: Hair Thinning

Try: Minoxidil

"It's a bit like fertiliser for the hair," says Paradi Mirmirani, MD, a fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Minoxidil has been well studied and there's good evidence that it increases the diameter of each strand, the density of hair and the rate at which hair grows." Minoxidil is available both as 2% and 5% formulations in lotion, gel and foam formula. You can buy the 2% formulation without a prescription and it's generally recommended to tackle hair loss termed telogen  effluvium', explains Dr Navin Taneja, medical director, The National Skin Center, New Delhi. However, experts add that the effect may take time to show up. It's advisable to consult a dermat-ologist before using minoxidil since it may have side-effects, says Dr Aparna Santhanam, Mumbai-based dermatologist and author of Hair.

What: Slow Growth

Try: Anti-dandruff shampoo

It sounds surprising, but research suggests that the zinc pyrithione (ZPT) in anti-dandruff shampoo may promote hair growth-even if you don't have flakes. A time- tested ingredient, "it is especially good if you're dealing with build-up or scalp scaling," says Mirmirani. Try Head & Shoulders Cool Menthol Anti-Danduff Shampoo, Rs 135, which also helps cool the scalp. Besides that, a high-protein diet may also help accelerate hair growth.

What: Weakened Strands

Try: Natural oils

"Oils improve hair's tensile strength," says Mirmirani. There's a bonus too: "They help smoothen the cuticle which can be lifted by wear and tear." Give yourself a head massage to boost blood circulation and nourish strands with Omved Rs 540. Besides promoting hair growth, it has bhringraj to prevent premature greying. You can also support weak strands with Wella Professionals Oil Reflections, Rs 850, which has macademia seed oil, avocado oil and Vitamin E. It can be used for conditioning post shampoo to style your mane. The serum also boosts shine and makes your hair feel softer.

TREATMENTS

Prevention spoke to natural beauty expert Suparna Trikha for easy, natural remedies for 4 common hair woes during monsoons.

FIX: FRIZZY HAIR

What causes it: Curly hair gets frizzier than straight hair as their cuticles are more open compared to straight hair in which the cuticles are flat, explains Coleen Khan, hair stylist and Pantene hair expert based in Mumbai. Rinse your hair with cold water: it allows the cuticles to stay flat and also smoothens frizz, advises Mark Hampton, Global Ambassador for Toni & Guy.

What you need: A hair mayonnaise

How to make it: Take 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (used in salad dressings), add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 teaspoons of honey. Blend well, apply on hair and keep it on for 20 minutes. Rinse clean.

FIX: FLAT-LOOKING HAIR/LIMP HAIR

What causes it: During the monsoons, our strands tend to absorb a lot of moisture from the air. If you have straight hair, the extra humidity leaves your hair flat,  explains LA-based hairstylist Marcus Francis for Tresemme.

What you need: A leave-in conditioner How to make it: Take 200 ml flat beer (no fizz) and add 200 ml water to it. Use it on scalp after shampoo. Let it dry naturally to get a beer bounce.

FIX: HAIRFALL What causes it: Hair trauma could be a combination of harsh detergents in shampoos, weather, poor nutrition and more. Look for sulphate-free shampoos that don't strip your hair of its natural oils, says Dr Kiran Lohia, medical director, Lumiere Dermatology, New Delhi. Make sure you nourish your strands and boost blood circulation with a good Ayurvedic oil massage, advises Trikha.

What you need: Hair mask.

How to make it: Take 2 cups of fresh hibiscus leaves, 2 cups of neem leaves, 5 bay leaves. Add 10 peppercorns and 20-30 holy basil leaves to it. Blend it until it becomes a green smoothie. Smear on hair after an oil massage, like a henna application. Use a mild shampoo to rinse off.

FIX: CLOGGED SCALP

What causes it: Sometimes over usage of serums, oils, shampoos and conditioners can clog your scalp too. The sweat and humidity at this time of the year only adds to it. Make sure you wash your hair thoroughly without vigorous rubbing. "Look for shampoos containing salicylic acid which may reduce the residue, allowing your scalp to breathe," suggests Lohia.

What you need: A wake-me-up shampoo

How to make it: Take 1/2 cup fullers' earth, juice of 1 lemon, 50 g powdered mint and 1 teaspoon honey. Add some toned milk and water in equal quantities to make a paste. Shampoo with it to get a flake-free scalp that leaves you feeling fresh too.

DYE IT YOUR WAY

There's nothing like a neat colour job that'll keep others guessing your age. But this season can even make colouring more tedious. The humidity in the air effects the hair porosity leading to more frequent applications and breakage, explains Santhanam. Here are some factors that you may want to keep in mind:

Choose an age-defying shade. Most experts believe that one should pick a hue within a shade or two close to your natural hair colour. In almost any brand, you can opt for shades which have a base of shade numbers from 1 to 4, these are the basic shades of black and brown, says Agnes Chen, Streax Expert based in Mumbai.

If you go too dark, it may sometimes get more attention to your face and its imperfections (read pigmentation, fine lines etc). If you go too light a shade, it may just not suit you, warns Lohia. With dark brown and black hair, warm tones usually look better because it complements the skin tone rather than washing it out. Colours like golden brown, chocolate, caramel and burgundy work best with brown or black hair. Light brown hair can play a bit more with cooler tones but still needs the 

balance of warmer tones to perfect the look, says Francis.

Know the formulas. Pick a colour on the basis of how many greys you have and then pick demi or permanent colour. Semi or demi hair dyes are ammonia-free and have little to no peroxide, explain both Chabbra and Taneja.

Since the colour molecule is smaller, it does minimal damage to the hair shaft and rinses out in 12-24 washes. Permanent hair colour alters the pH balance of your hair, says Lohia. You can lighten your hair since it has peroxide allowing the colour to attach to the hair shaft. If you have more than 40% greys on your crown, then permanent colour is a better option. The molecule is bigger and stronger and grows out with your hair, explains Francis.

Break the monotony with highlights. Light-hued highlights can actually hide imperfections and take away attention from them. It may help accentuate your colour, making your hair seem thicker and more voluminous. Choose a shade 2-3 shades lighter than the global colour. So if you have medium brown hair, then go for honey-blonde or light brown highlights, suggests Chen.

Go pro with at-home touch ups. Frequent salon trips can sometimes be a bit too steep and cumbersome. And with easy-to-use home kits, colouring at home shouldn't be too problematic or time consuming. Start with doing a patch test behind your ear or inner side of the arm to prevent contact allergic reaction, advises Taneja. Make sure you have your tools in place: brush, towel and colour kit in place. Put a thick layer of petroleum jelly on your face, neck and back to avoid staining. A good tip if you're going darker is to start from the back; if you're going lighter start in the front, shares Francis. Make sure you rinse thoroughly. 

8 Sexy Hairstyles for Girls with Long Hair

The best thing about long hair is that you can style them in various ways. So if you are bored of your monotonous hairstyle, then try something new. Donning a new sexy hairstyle does not mean that you have to rush to your hairstylist right now. Just twist and turn your hair to get them in new styles. So, take a look at some sexy and easy hairdos that you can flaunt anywhere anytime.

Let your ponytail flirt with your face

Ponytail is one hairdo which is quick, easy and comfortable. But, you can ditch the traditional sleek ponytail for a flirty one. All you have to do is tease the roots around the forehead of your head. Leave a few flicks hanging at your forehead to ace that flirtatious look (like Jennifer Aniston's look in the image below). Or make a nice puff at the crown (just like Deepika's hairstyle below). For some extra bounce, use flexible-hold spray to fluff up the length.

Add some bangs

To keep your long hair from looking dull and boring, add bangs. Bangs will give altogether a fresh look to your face. Fringes are best way to accentuate your facial features. So, pair wavy hair with straight bangs or side-swept bangs with pulled back section.

Curl up your mane

Curl up your mane if you want a sophisticated yet classy look. You can have super sized curls with the help of heated rollers or get a surfer girl waves (just like Kate Hudson's locks in the image below). For the latter, you would need to mist your hair with the help of wave-making salt-infused styler, and then twist small pieces of your locks around your fingers to give them a twist. If you have natural waves then highlight a few strands of your hair to break the monotony.

Side-swept hair strands

If you feel like adding some drama to your hairstyle, then simply gather your hair and pull them to one side. See what is your best side of the face that you do not mind showing off. Put a little hair spray on your strands, and then pull them to one side of your face completely.

Sport super sleek strands

Take out that straightening iron from your cupboard and use it to get super-sleek mane. Depending upon your face structure, you can either straighten your hair with center or side partition. If you want to add extra oomph factor to your look, then slicked-back strands is the perfect hairdo for it. To get the look, iron your hair first then apply gel from hairline to crown. Do use a protective styling spray before you clamp down to get this chic look.

  

Opt for braids

Yes, you read it right. Braids are back in vogue, but here is how you can give them a stunning twist. Instead of tying them at the centre, pull all your hair on one side and braid straight down. This is known as a side-swept French braid. You can also style your braid in a crown form or go the traditional milkmaid way.

Make a bun

Bun is a perfect hairdo for summers. It is neat and trendy at the same time. You can either opt for slicked-back high bun or sleek side-swept low bun. To get the side-swept look, part your hair to one side and make a loose bun, just above the nape of your neck. This amazing hairdo is easy to achieve with mid to long length locks.

Faux your way with a bob

If one fine day you feel like going for a short style, then just tuck your hair up into itself till the length you want and pin it underneath your hair with the help of bobby pins. This will make your hair short and will give you an awesome look.

So, what are you waiting for? Try these exciting hairstyles for different outings and surprise the guests with your new sexy avatars!