Eight tips for healthy, shinning hair

Eca Fairy
ILLUMINATION
Published in
4 min readOct 28, 2022

I started my hair journey years ago, and every day I learn something new or hear about a product that promises to be revolutionary in the industry. Starting a haircare routine can get confusing, so I want to share with you some simple tricks that can make any hair look its best!

Photo of me by a local photographer

1. Oil masks

  • One hour before washing your hair, apply hair oil to previously detangled hair, starting from the roots and slowly massaging it down to the ends. You can choose between argan, castor, jojoba, and macadamia oil or apply a mixture of multiple oils for more benefits!
  • This will ensure your hair stays hydrated during shampooing and untangles easier.
Photo by Scandinavian Biolabs on Unsplash

2. Scalp detox

  • Similar to your face, your scalp can get clogged with sebum and impurities, resulting in itchiness, redness, and a flaky scalp.
  • After making sure your scalp isn't too sensitive by doing a patch test, apply a detoxifying mask or shampoo. You can also use toners enriched with AHAs, which promote natural surface exfoliation.

3. Shampoo

  • Shampoo twice in order to remove all the build-up and leave your hair shiny and ready to absorb hydrating products.
  • Emulsify the shampoo in your palms before applying, to ensure even application.
  • Massage the shampoo slowly to stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles.
Photo by Apothecary 87 on Unsplash

4. Conditioner and hair masks

  • Find a conditioner appropriate for your hair type and apply it on the ends of the hair, never on the roots. Let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it with cold water, to reduce breakage.
  • Use a hydrating hair mask once a week, paired with a detox mask before shampooing for the best results.

5. Heat avoidance

  • Use less heat when styling and always apply a heat-protectant serum or spray before.
  • Blow-dry your hair on the lowest heat setting.
Photo by Baylee Gramling on Unsplash

6. Oil or serum on the ends of the hair

  • This is exactly what it sounds like: apply hair oil on the ends to reduce frizz and breakage. You will notice it keeps your hair more hydrated and shiny in between washing sessions.
  • Apply only a few drops (or the amount suggested on the product) to avoid greasy hair due to the slow absorption of the oil into the hair.
  • You can do this at least once a week, but it is not recommended more than three times a week.
Photo by Kadarius Seegars on Unsplash

7. Gentle brushing

  • Detangling your hair is very important, but make sure it is a slow and gentle process. Find a hair brush that isn't too sturdy.
  • Don’t brush your hair more than once a day! This can make it dull and more prone to breakage and not to mention more frizzy!
  • Maybe the most important thing about the hairbrush: wash it as often as you can! It will make a huge difference on your hair.

8. Silk pillowcase

  • Normally, sleeping means you can’t really focus on taking care of your hair, but a silk pillowcase does that for you! It ensures no breakage and no dulling of the hair (otherwise existent due to the friction).

Below I attached photos of my hair after consistently following these tips!

Photo of me by a local photographer
Photo of me by a local photographer

Thank you for reading and I hope you find the tips useful and easy to integrate into your haircare routine! For more lifestyle, haircare and skincare content make sure to follow me on Instagram as well:

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