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When it comes to the texture of our hair, and the health of our scalp, the questions are never ending.
Here are the questions we received from readers concerned about dry, dull and breaking hair, as well as itchy and sweating scalps.
Hair texture
• Since getting older (46) I have noticed the texture of my hair has changed, it seems coarse. I condition every time I wash and also try not to be too harsh with combing etc. I have shoulder length hair that gets knotted and tangled all the time.
• Question: what to do with oily roots, falling out hair and very fine, dull and dry hair. I have recently tried coconut milk, as I read an article on how it adds lustre etc. That didn’t work, I only broke out in a rash on my neck. Short of wanting to shaving it all off (to the horror of my husband), I’m at a loss (literally I guess!)
• I have naturally curly hair and lately it has become hard to manage...a bit dry, curls a bit flat and some hair loss . The question I’d like to ask is how can I make my hair soft and full whilst it being curly...is there specific products or procedures that I can use/do.
• Hi my hair issue consist of me not knowing what products to use because my hair gets oily fast but it’s also dry in front. My hair fell out but mostly on top and my front hair also broke off. I had a full head of curly hair with lots of volume but sadly not anymore. Any suggestions to get my hair back to what it was?
• I have always had very fine hair that was predominantly oily, but manageable. However; over the past year and a half, I have struggled greatly with the condition of my hair. After washing my hair, it would feel sticky in patches and constantly look as though it was oily, with a dry and at times itchy scalp. but the texture of the stickiness is much worse than oily hair. I I feel as though I have tried everything I can think of, from countless types of shampoos, to dermatologist appointments and even washing with bi-carbonate of soda (which stripped the dye in my hair out, but helped with the stickiness for a while) but nothing has truly helped - I hope than you will be able to offer some solution/advice please.
• My hair is so lifeless, thin, and fine. I can never seem to get it to grow past my shoulders and I love the idea of having thick, full looking long hair. I'm 23 and I just want my hair to cooperate. I can't get it to hold hairstyles very well either. It's a mess!”
• David what can I do to
1. Make my fine knotty hair more manageable and brushable
2. How do I get the volume and thickness back in my life?
• I have very long thick hair, I struggle especially in Winter to keep it moisturised and straight. I suffer from fry hair, dandruff, split ends and knots. I really do not want to cut my hair. Please advise, what should I be doing or which products should I use?
• Question: what to do with oily roots, falling out hair and very fine, dull and dry hair. I have recently tried coconut milk, as I read an article on how it adds lustre etc. that didn’t work, I only broke out in a rash on my neck. Short of wanting to shaving it all off (to the horror of my husband), I’m at a loss (literally I guess!)
• I have naturally curly hair and lately it has become hard to manage...a bit dry, curls a bit flat and some hair loss . The question I’d like to ask is how can I make my hair soft and full whilst it being curly...is there specific products or procedures that I can use/do?
• My hair was always full of bounce and very healthy. I do from time to time colour my hair and for the past 6 to 8 months my hair has just gone very dull and no life. I have no natural shine anymore either. My hair also grew quite fast at one stage and although it is still growing it is very dry. I am 43 years old so I am not sure whether this has anything to do with age. I have very thick hair and also from time to time have it thinned it so it can be more manageable. I would be delighted to hear from you on how I can have my natural healthy shiny full of bounce hair back please.
• “What is the best product to use for dry hair and how can I prevent hair breakage?”
David says: Dry, brittle and coarse hair needs tons of moisture and there are many products that offer this kind of support, like the Davines Mo Mo shampoo and conditioner. Weekly treatments are also a must, and using a good hair oil regularly, will definitely help - Morrocan Oil is a great investment. Be very cautious of harsh chemical treatments, as this will make the problem worse.
Remember to always use a heat protestant product before heat styling your hair, to keep damage to a minimum.
When it comes to oily hair, dry shampoo may just save your life (Try Batiste _LINK_ Dry Shampoo, and always keep it in your handbag!)
Don’t brush your hair too much as it spreads the oil, and don’t use too many products, especially before blow-drying – this will make your hair oily from the get go and cause product build up. When you do use products, make sure that your products aren’t oil based.
Whether you have dry or oily hair, look out for products specially formulated for you – and read the labels.
Remember, the products that you get in a drug store aren’t the same as those sold in salons. You hair dresser should be able to give you the right advice, so make sure you tell him/her exactly what your issues are.
Split ends
• Wow, where do I start. I have endless problems with my hair from shrinking to split ends. I have tried numerous products in the market but have not found a solution thus far. In the mornings when I go to work I have to cover my hair until I get there to style it in the ladies room . If I do not cover my hair by the time I get to work my hair will be shrunk and dry, and this problem I have throughout the year summer and winter. I have tried numerous treatments, shampoos and conditioners and even go to salon’s but to no avail. Another issue is split ends, I do the usual tipping of my hair but in less than 2 weeks it’s back. What causes this to happen as I regularly treat my hair and visit salons. I need answer to both of the above questions and maybe hearing from our expert “David Gilson” will give me a permanent solution.
• I'm on the over-30 bus to Last Chance for Long Locks and I just can't seem to keep my split ends at bay. What's the best way to avoid them without extreme chopping?
David says: Split ends should be trimmed regularly. Also, it might be time to invest in some new hair equipment. When you switch on your hairdryer and check the element, make sure it isn’t burning red – this means that it’s definitely burning your hair. Hence the terrible split ends. Make sure you keep your hair equipment in good condition.
Dry, itchy scalp
• “I have a dry scalp with oily hair. I have used a scalp treatment instead of conditioner but it seems like it doesn't work. I used to treat my hair with harsh products like gel and hair spray every weekend and would do up styles as I was a ballroom and latin dancer. Could that be the cause of the dry scalp?”
• “I struggle with a dry scalp and would like advice on what products to use to help me in this regard. I am already aware of tips such as don't wash your hair with water that is too hot or blowdry your hair on too hot a setting. Now I just need a product that will help me with my embarrassing problem!”
• “I suffer from very dry and itchy scalp and can't resist scratching which worsens the problem and in fact it's now become a bit of a habit. Help please???
• My hair Dilemma is stiff course hair which when I try to relax, the product easily burns my scalp. Then I get burnt dry scruf in my scalp
David says: A dry scalp comes from an internal condition and often the over the counter products that we buy merely aggravate it because of the harsh chemicals they contain. Try a natural, organic product like Davines Purifying range – which is calming and will help with a dry, itchy scalp. Relaxers that burn your scalp should be avoided at all costs. Burning is not a good sign! Try a calming shampoo and try to find a relaxer that is natural and won’t burn you.
Sweating scalp
• “I have a problem wears my scalp sweats terribly. My hair can look absolutely stunning. The moment my scalp sweats my hairdo flops and becomes frizzy and hard to manage.”
• “Ever since my third child (2007) I sweat in my head. Which results in beautifully blow dried hair being all curled and "minced". So, wearing a scarf also makes it easier so I don’t have to blow-dry my hair if I really don’t want to, but sometimes I don’t feel like it due to the sweating and me just seeing no point in going through the trouble.”
David says: Sweating on your scalp may be health related, in which case a product won’t neceasrily fix your problem and it would probably be best to speak to your doctor about this. However, it won’t hurt to try a product like Davines Rebalancing shampoo.
Want to find out more about your particular hair issue? Click here to see the rest of our expert advice articles.
Follow Women24 on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
Here are the questions we received from readers concerned about dry, dull and breaking hair, as well as itchy and sweating scalps.
Hair texture
• Since getting older (46) I have noticed the texture of my hair has changed, it seems coarse. I condition every time I wash and also try not to be too harsh with combing etc. I have shoulder length hair that gets knotted and tangled all the time.
• Question: what to do with oily roots, falling out hair and very fine, dull and dry hair. I have recently tried coconut milk, as I read an article on how it adds lustre etc. That didn’t work, I only broke out in a rash on my neck. Short of wanting to shaving it all off (to the horror of my husband), I’m at a loss (literally I guess!)
• I have naturally curly hair and lately it has become hard to manage...a bit dry, curls a bit flat and some hair loss . The question I’d like to ask is how can I make my hair soft and full whilst it being curly...is there specific products or procedures that I can use/do.
• Hi my hair issue consist of me not knowing what products to use because my hair gets oily fast but it’s also dry in front. My hair fell out but mostly on top and my front hair also broke off. I had a full head of curly hair with lots of volume but sadly not anymore. Any suggestions to get my hair back to what it was?
• I have always had very fine hair that was predominantly oily, but manageable. However; over the past year and a half, I have struggled greatly with the condition of my hair. After washing my hair, it would feel sticky in patches and constantly look as though it was oily, with a dry and at times itchy scalp. but the texture of the stickiness is much worse than oily hair. I I feel as though I have tried everything I can think of, from countless types of shampoos, to dermatologist appointments and even washing with bi-carbonate of soda (which stripped the dye in my hair out, but helped with the stickiness for a while) but nothing has truly helped - I hope than you will be able to offer some solution/advice please.
• My hair is so lifeless, thin, and fine. I can never seem to get it to grow past my shoulders and I love the idea of having thick, full looking long hair. I'm 23 and I just want my hair to cooperate. I can't get it to hold hairstyles very well either. It's a mess!”
• David what can I do to
1. Make my fine knotty hair more manageable and brushable
2. How do I get the volume and thickness back in my life?
• I have very long thick hair, I struggle especially in Winter to keep it moisturised and straight. I suffer from fry hair, dandruff, split ends and knots. I really do not want to cut my hair. Please advise, what should I be doing or which products should I use?
• Question: what to do with oily roots, falling out hair and very fine, dull and dry hair. I have recently tried coconut milk, as I read an article on how it adds lustre etc. that didn’t work, I only broke out in a rash on my neck. Short of wanting to shaving it all off (to the horror of my husband), I’m at a loss (literally I guess!)
• I have naturally curly hair and lately it has become hard to manage...a bit dry, curls a bit flat and some hair loss . The question I’d like to ask is how can I make my hair soft and full whilst it being curly...is there specific products or procedures that I can use/do?
• My hair was always full of bounce and very healthy. I do from time to time colour my hair and for the past 6 to 8 months my hair has just gone very dull and no life. I have no natural shine anymore either. My hair also grew quite fast at one stage and although it is still growing it is very dry. I am 43 years old so I am not sure whether this has anything to do with age. I have very thick hair and also from time to time have it thinned it so it can be more manageable. I would be delighted to hear from you on how I can have my natural healthy shiny full of bounce hair back please.
• “What is the best product to use for dry hair and how can I prevent hair breakage?”
David says: Dry, brittle and coarse hair needs tons of moisture and there are many products that offer this kind of support, like the Davines Mo Mo shampoo and conditioner. Weekly treatments are also a must, and using a good hair oil regularly, will definitely help - Morrocan Oil is a great investment. Be very cautious of harsh chemical treatments, as this will make the problem worse.
Remember to always use a heat protestant product before heat styling your hair, to keep damage to a minimum.
When it comes to oily hair, dry shampoo may just save your life (Try Batiste _LINK_ Dry Shampoo, and always keep it in your handbag!)
Don’t brush your hair too much as it spreads the oil, and don’t use too many products, especially before blow-drying – this will make your hair oily from the get go and cause product build up. When you do use products, make sure that your products aren’t oil based.
Whether you have dry or oily hair, look out for products specially formulated for you – and read the labels.
Remember, the products that you get in a drug store aren’t the same as those sold in salons. You hair dresser should be able to give you the right advice, so make sure you tell him/her exactly what your issues are.
Split ends
• Wow, where do I start. I have endless problems with my hair from shrinking to split ends. I have tried numerous products in the market but have not found a solution thus far. In the mornings when I go to work I have to cover my hair until I get there to style it in the ladies room . If I do not cover my hair by the time I get to work my hair will be shrunk and dry, and this problem I have throughout the year summer and winter. I have tried numerous treatments, shampoos and conditioners and even go to salon’s but to no avail. Another issue is split ends, I do the usual tipping of my hair but in less than 2 weeks it’s back. What causes this to happen as I regularly treat my hair and visit salons. I need answer to both of the above questions and maybe hearing from our expert “David Gilson” will give me a permanent solution.
• I'm on the over-30 bus to Last Chance for Long Locks and I just can't seem to keep my split ends at bay. What's the best way to avoid them without extreme chopping?
David says: Split ends should be trimmed regularly. Also, it might be time to invest in some new hair equipment. When you switch on your hairdryer and check the element, make sure it isn’t burning red – this means that it’s definitely burning your hair. Hence the terrible split ends. Make sure you keep your hair equipment in good condition.
Dry, itchy scalp
• “I have a dry scalp with oily hair. I have used a scalp treatment instead of conditioner but it seems like it doesn't work. I used to treat my hair with harsh products like gel and hair spray every weekend and would do up styles as I was a ballroom and latin dancer. Could that be the cause of the dry scalp?”
• “I struggle with a dry scalp and would like advice on what products to use to help me in this regard. I am already aware of tips such as don't wash your hair with water that is too hot or blowdry your hair on too hot a setting. Now I just need a product that will help me with my embarrassing problem!”
• “I suffer from very dry and itchy scalp and can't resist scratching which worsens the problem and in fact it's now become a bit of a habit. Help please???
• My hair Dilemma is stiff course hair which when I try to relax, the product easily burns my scalp. Then I get burnt dry scruf in my scalp
David says: A dry scalp comes from an internal condition and often the over the counter products that we buy merely aggravate it because of the harsh chemicals they contain. Try a natural, organic product like Davines Purifying range – which is calming and will help with a dry, itchy scalp. Relaxers that burn your scalp should be avoided at all costs. Burning is not a good sign! Try a calming shampoo and try to find a relaxer that is natural and won’t burn you.
Sweating scalp
• “I have a problem wears my scalp sweats terribly. My hair can look absolutely stunning. The moment my scalp sweats my hairdo flops and becomes frizzy and hard to manage.”
• “Ever since my third child (2007) I sweat in my head. Which results in beautifully blow dried hair being all curled and "minced". So, wearing a scarf also makes it easier so I don’t have to blow-dry my hair if I really don’t want to, but sometimes I don’t feel like it due to the sweating and me just seeing no point in going through the trouble.”
David says: Sweating on your scalp may be health related, in which case a product won’t neceasrily fix your problem and it would probably be best to speak to your doctor about this. However, it won’t hurt to try a product like Davines Rebalancing shampoo.
Want to find out more about your particular hair issue? Click here to see the rest of our expert advice articles.
Follow Women24 on Twitter and like us on Facebook.
