5 habits that boost hair volume

Our hair type (fine, curly, straight, etc) is largely determined by genetics. Though some are naturally blessed with thick, high-volume hair, others have to work a little harder. These tips won’t completely alter your hair type, but they can improve your scalp health and hair quality—protecting it from the damage that can cause hair to lose its luster and body, and maximizing its volume.

1. Watch your nutrition

Your body needs vitamins and minerals to stay healthy. If you have poor nutrition, your hair will show it. It’s important to have adequate amounts of Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Vitamin A.

Aside from these vitamins, you also need to take in the right amount of protein. Protein is the ‘building block’ of muscle and tissue, and if you do not have enough hair will be brittle and weak. If you are vegetarian, get your protein from tofu and beans. You may also want to take an amino acid supplement.
Some supplements can also boost hair growth. Try wheat germ and brewer’s yeast.

2. Manage your stress

Stress can contribute to hair loss (and a host of more serious and life threatening health problems, such as heart disease). Incorporate stress management techniques like meditation, a hobby, or exercise into your weekly routine.

3. Trim hair regularly

This helps prevent split ends which can damage the rest of the hair shaft.

4. Minimize chemical treatments

Constant exposure to hair dye and other chemical treatments like perms can dry out and break the hair. Blowdrying and other styling methods can also contribute to the damage. If you want to color hair, consider using henna—which is natural and gentler on the hair and the scalp.

5. Use the right hair products

Choose a shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type, and concentrate it on the scalp. Since shampoo can dry out the hair (when it strips off dirt, it also removes natural oils) use a conditioner a few times a week. You may also want to use a leave in conditioner during very hot months. When you go to the beach, get hair products that provide SPF protection—the scalp is very thin and is prone to sunburn and UV damage, too.

Photo from hairstyleloungesheknows.com