DEAR Dr. Fritz,
Call me Amy Kong. My problem is my dry hair. I’ve been trying to look for remedies – but, they don’t seem to be working. Please help me.
God bless and more power.
Amy Kong
*****
Dear Amy Kong,
I understand how frustrating dry hair can be. I have had my own share of dry hair way back then. I hope the following tips can help you fight this menace.
1. Look for better moisturizers
Stay away from shampoos with mineral oil and petrolatum – as they would prevent the outside moisture getting in. Instead, choose products with natural oils like olive or argan oil, or glycerin, sorbitol, or shea butter.
2. Apply heat according to your hair.
If your hair is fine, set your blow dryers, curling irons and fat irons to low. But, if your hair is medium and coarse, you can set your styling tools to a much higher temperature.
3. Weather, weather…
Weather can stress out your hair no matter what type it is. If you’ve been outside and your hair has been exposed to cold air, scorching sun, salt water and chlorine, use shampoo and conditioner designed for dry hair. Don’t forget your hat when the conditions outside could bake you.
4. Trim dead ends
Do this every six to eight weeks, especially if you are using hot tools regularly.
5. Use large teethed comb
This simple tool had prevented me from damaging my hair.
6. Comb gently from top to bottom
Don’t be harsh with your hair as your attitude towards it can reflect on how healthy it will be.
7. Try jojoba or coconut oil
This is when your hair is too dry. Rub a few drops to your damp hair and leave it on for a few minutes. Then, wash it off with a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner.
8. Give your hair a day off
Yes, from styling tools. Let your hair air dry, instead.
9. Get your hair ready as you sleep
Get the tangles out before you go to bed. If you may, use a silk pillowcase as it can cause less friction.
10. Choose hair color well
That is within three shades of your natural hair color since they would need less processing. And don’t do it on a monthly basis.
11. Day off from shampoo
You can shampoo today and just use conditioner tomorrow. And the cycle just goes on and on.
12. Some hair diet
Go for healthy fats! Eat plenty of avocados, salmon, and olive oil. They have the essential fatty acids, which can moisturize a dry scalp with natural oils.
Good luck!
Dr. Fritz
*****
(For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o Sun.Star Davao, Ebro-Pelayo Building, Jacinsto St., Davao City or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. For unanswered questions, we regret that we cannot answer them all. Thank you for your understanding.)