Shiny hair is mostly related to the condition of the hair cuticles. When the hair cuticles are closed, light can reflect more easily and this creates a beautiful shine. Do you suffer from dull-looking hair that no longer shines? We give you 10 good tips that will make your hair shine again.
1. Eat plenty of protein and antioxidants
To improve hair quality, you need to eat plenty of protein-rich food in particular. Your body needs this substance to be able to convert it into keratin, which is largely what your hair is made of. In addition, take plenty of antioxidants, this strengthens your hair.
2. Use a mild shampoo
Choose a nourishing shampoo that is suitable for your hair type and contains as few chemical ingredients as possible. When your hair is moisturised, it will automatically feel healthier and smoother.
3. Conditioner and hair mask
Sometimes give your hair extra love in the form of a conditioner or hair mask after using a shampoo. This closes the cuticles and nourishes your hair intensively. As an extra tip: use your mask or conditioner before getting into the shower. When your hair is wet, the product's nourishing ingredients do not penetrate as well. So apply it once to dry hair so that the nourishing properties penetrate better and wash your hair afterwards with a mild shampoo like our Dark Bamboo.
4. Use the right hairbrush
A proper hairbrush is more important than you think. Some hairbrushes damage your hair, make it dull and cause it to break off. Choose a quality brush with flexible, soft pins or one with natural hair. They may be a bit more expensive, but it's wonderful for your hair.
5. Don't brush your hair too often
Another tip is to avoid brushing your hair too often to prevent hair loss and damage. Be even more careful when combing your hair wet, as your hair will be more fragile. So wait until your hair has dried a bit before you brush it.
6. Avoid split ends
Go to the hairdresser regularly to keep your hair shiny and healthy. Keep around every 8 to 12 weeks to go to the hairdresser. Trimming your split ends will prevent them from splitting further upwards, and therefore from taking the shine out of your hair.
7. Avoid hot styling tools
Use hot styling tools as little as possible. If you often use your hair dryer, straightener or curling iron, you will damage your hair tremendously. The high temperatures you use on your hair can damage or dry out your locks. If you do use these styingtools a lot, make sure you protect your hair properly with heat-resistant products. For example, with a heat protection spray or a serum. This way, you put a protective layer over your hair, preventing the heat from reaching the core of your hair.
8. Blow-dry in the right direction
When blow-drying your hair, do so by blowing from the top down, in the direction of the cuticle. This will smooth your locks, making them shine beautifully. After blow-drying, continue blowing with a cold air to close the hair cuticles.
9. Use apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar also works wonders for shiny hair. This is because apple cider vinegar keeps your pH level up and cleanses the hair without affecting the natural oils. If you use it after you have washed your hair, your hair will regain a nice shine and feel soft. So you use it after you wash your hair with shampoo. Let the apple cider vinegar sit for a minute and then rinse with water.
10. Do not wash your hair more than twice a week
Do not wash your hair too often. It is important to keep your hair clean, but that does not mean you should wash it unnecessarily often. This can actually take away the shine. By washing your hair too often, you also wash the natural fats and oils out of your hair. A few times a week is enough!
Remember that patience is important. Your hair will not regain its shine immediately. Treat your hair with love and use as few chemicals as possible - and you will get those shiny locks again.