Like skin, there are numerous types and textures of hair and like skincare, there is no one formula that fits and suits everyone. Taking care of every different hair type can be challenging (think: dry, oily, or combination scalp) and today, we’re dropping a primer on how to give thick hair TLC.
Thick, coarse hair is the type in which each strand has a wide diameter and often needs extra moisture. So, how do you find out if you have thick locks? Take a single strand of hair and see if you feel it. If you do, then you have thick hair and if not, then it is more on the finer side. Another way to find out is to take a piece of thread and check if it is thicker than your hair strand. If it is then your hair isn’t coarse and if it isn’t then your mane is on the denser side. Here's what you need to know to tame the unwanted frizz…
Think moisturising, think hydrating
Remember, picking the right product goes a long way in managing your hair. For a thicker mane, look for conditioning creams, balms, oils and butters like shea butter, jojoba, avocado, olive or castor oil, and glycerine. These will keep your tresses shiny, hydrated and nourished. If you have a greasy scalp, avoid butters and heavy products as these will make them oilier.
If frizz wreaks havoc on your hair, look for keratin-rich products that fill in the hair cuticles, defrizzing them. These proteins step in to smoothen, hydrate, heal and protect your hair.
Pick the right hair towel
For the best hair, prep begins in the shower. After washing and masking, it is essential you reduce moisture loss as much as possible, and to do that, use a microfiber cloth. This will absorb excess water and prevent frizz.
Pro tip: In a pinch, a thin cotton t-shirt will do a similar job of keeping frizz at bay.
Mask once a week
Often, the natural oils from the scalp cannot travel down the lengths of your hair, leaving the ends dry. Give your tresses an extra dose of nourishment and care with easy DIY hair masks. Add moisture-retaining ingredients like eggs, honey, aloe vera, and coconut oil to your go-to recipe for a shine boost. Mix half an avocado, a tablespoon of honey and coconut oil each, and an egg in a bowl. Apply to your mane and wash off after 15 minutes.
Find the right hair accessories
If finding the correct bands for your hair is an issue, give Invisibobble hair ties a go. These spiral ties give maximum hold to your mane without denting it or pulling at it.
Go for layered haircuts
To make your hair more manageable, give it extra movement, and prevent it from falling flat (because of the weight of your strands), add a few layers to your hairstyle. Thinning out your hair will make it easier to tame and keep in place.