Living Magazine Summer 2016 | Page 22

IT’STheALL ABOUT THAT HAIR secrets to strong and healthy hair Summer heat and water activities can do a number on your hair. Follow these tips and DIYs to keep your hair feeling healthy and looking gorgeous all summer long. COMB FROM THE BOTTOM UP When combing your hair, gently start at the ends of your hair and work your way to the roots to prevent hair breakage. If your hair is wet, make sure to towel dry first, then apply a leave-in conditioner before brushing. USE ESSENTIAL OILS When added to your regular hair care routine, essential oils can work wonders on your hair and scalp. Aside from their aromatic benefits, essential oils can cleanse the scalp and help keep the hair looking strong and healthy. TREAT YOUR SCALP A regular scalp massage increases circulation and can help with fatigue and stress. The good news, a scalp massage is something you can actually do on your own. Gently massage a few drops of fractionated coconut oil into your scalp. Make it an aromatic experience by adding a few drops of Peppermint, Lavender, or Melaleuca essential oil. You can also add a couple drops of essential oils to your shampoo for a soothing, in-shower scalp treatment. Essential Oils for Beautiful Hair and a Healthy Scalp Geranium Rosemary Clary Sage Ylang Ylang Jasmine Sandalwood Melaleuca Peppermint Roman Chamomile DO AN APPLE CIDER VINEGAR RINSE An apple cider vinegar rinse helps get rid of extra build-up on the hair and scalp without stripping natural oils. When used regularly in your natural hair routine, apple cider vinegar can also restore and balance the natural pH level of your hair, making it soft, shiny, and easy to work with. BLOW DRY WITH LOW HEAT Use the low heat option on your dryer to minimize damage. Keep the hair dryer at least 8 inches away from your hair. Additionally, try using a heat-protector spray or leave-in conditioner to minimize any damage. When possible, let your hair dry naturally. RINSE WITH COLD WATER While warm water opens a hair's cuticle, cool water helps to close the cuticle and seal moisture in, which helps your hair look shiny and healthy. At the end of your shower, give your hair a quick, cool rinse. Not only will it benefit your hair and skin, it will also make you feel refreshed and more awake. SKIP A WASH Washing hair every day removes the natural oils and proteins, causing your hair to dry out quicker. Those natural hair oils will actually make your hair healthier and shinier than most products. Dry shampoos are a good option for spot treating on those in-between days. When you do wash your hair, make sure to use gentle shampoo and conditioner— dōTERRA® Protective Shampoo is a great option. 22 / SUMMER 2016 LIVING MAGAZINE GET A TRIM A slight trim every six to eight months keeps ends from splitting, which helps your hair remain healthy and strong. APPLY A HAIR MASK Hot summer temperatures can leave your hair feeling dry. Once a week hair mask application can bring life to your hair, add shine, and help with manageability. EAT WELL AND STRESS LESS A healthy diet with the right mix of protein, iron, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients can help improve the health, look, and feel of your hair. Stress can also have a negative effect on your skin and hair. When things get hectic, remember to slow down, take a deep breathe, and de-stress.