It’s just about that time of year when our hair begins to show the signs of Winter wear. With cold, brittle air and excessive blow drying come the dry, frizzy, and lackluster tresses that are anything but flattering. Instead of using an over-the-counter moisturizing condition or mask, look no further than your refrigerator and pantry, where some of the most potent home hair treatments can be found.
1. Yogurt
This dual-purpose solution gives your hair the glistening, soft shine it so desperately needs. The lactic acid in yogurt breaks down the dirt in your hair and the milk-fat goes a step further and helps to moisturize it.
How to Use: Twice a month, take 1/2 cup of plain, full-fat yogurt and massage it into your scalp and damp hair, down to the tips. Let the yogurt sit for about 15 minutes. Rinse and proceed with your beauty routine as usual.
2. Eggs
Raw eggs are known to build muscle, but did you know that they are also one of nature’s greatest hair moisturizers? The egg yolk is packed with moisturizing fat and protein and the egg-white contains enzymes that strip your hair of unwanted oils.
How To Use: Crack an egg and whisk it until smooth. Massage into scalp and hair and let sit there for 20 minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water and continue with your beauty regimen. Repeat once per month.
3. Honey
This sticky situation will turn out for the better. Honey is a natural humectant, which means that it attracts and locks in moisture. It also leaves behind a sweet and delicious scent. Raw honey is preferable to any other kind, because it contains live, active enzymes that will benefit your hair even more!
How to Use: Take about 1/2 cup of honey and massage it into your scalp and hair. Let sit for 20 minutes before rinsing. Repeat once per month.
4. Avocado
Ancient Mayan, Aztec and Incan civilizations used the avocado for skin and hair health. The oils in avocado are light, much like those in our skin secretions, and are thus a great tool in repairing damaged scalp and hair.
How to Use: Cut an avocado, lengthwise around its core. Twist the avocado open, remove the core, and scoop the flesh out with a spoon. Mash the avocado in a small bowl and apply to damp hair, massaging into the scalp and strands. Let the avocado sit for approximately 15 minutes and then wash out with water. Repeat twice a month.
5. Olive Oil
Olive oil is an excellent moisturizer for your scalp and hair. If you suffer from dandruff during the winter months, massaging olive oil into your scalp will help to lock in moisture and prevent dandruff.
How to Use: Massage about 3-4 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil into your damp hair and scalp and let sit for 20 minutes. Repeat weekly.
Images: Helga Weber, GlowKitchen