You have probably noticed beautifully shiny hair in some commercial for hair cosmetics. You may have thought that this is more a result of technology than nature. However, if we gave our hair its freedom, did not interfere with its structure and took care of it carefully, it would certainly be beautifully shiny. The shine of hair is caused by the reflection of light. If the hair is healthy, undamaged, the effect is visible from afar.
Each hair consists of 3 parts – the medulla, the cortex and the cuticle. The cuticle is a protective covering that protects the hair. The cuticle has a scale structure. And this is where the scales often get damaged when washing, drying and coloring the hair.
When washing, the scales open slightly and we can wash away the dirt that has stuck to the hair. When washing with shampoo, there is no need to scrub the hair, just gently rub it and rinse it and repeat this process twice. After washing, it is good to use a conditioner so that the scales close, adhere to the hair cuticle and protect the inside of the hair. When drying hair, the rule again applies: the more natural, the better. So, the healthiest way for hair is to let it air dry. Those who wrap their hair in a towel should again avoid scrubbing. And if we use a hairdryer, use it on a low temperature and at a distance of about 20 cm from the head. We blow dry from the roots to the ends and without tilting the head forward.
Hair coloring is based on coating the hair with color pigments. In order for the color to last longer, the pigment must partially penetrate the hair, i.e. open the scales and get into the cuticle. You probably already know that then we should use a special preparation to soften the scales. You can see for yourself that even ordinary washing and drying of hair can result in damage to the hair, which then loses its shine.
And some information at the end. Hair will be beautiful and shiny if it has the necessary nutrients. A varied and balanced diet is the basis for it. Omega acids, amino acids – methionine, cystine, minerals – zinc, selenium, copper, iron, silicon and also vitamins of group B, C and E cannot be missing in the diet or in food supplements.
