Everyone loves the charisma and allure of beautiful, shiny hair. However, getting the perfect head of hair can be easier said than done. Many people struggle with hair problems that affect their confidence and self-esteem. Thankfully, most of these hair problems can be fixed with some informed care. Here are some common hair problems and how to solve them.

Split Ends

Split ends are a form of hair damage that can often be noticed at the tips of the hair shaft. Too many split ends will make your hair look frizzy and leave it likely to break. Split ends can be caused by several internal and external factors including poor detangling techniques, using too much heat, and incorrectly drying wet hair. They can notably also be caused by a deficiency in vitamins and minerals that make them more prone to breakage.

Split ends occur due to hair dryness. Ensure that the natural oils produced by the scalp reach your hair by massaging your scalp or brushing dry hair gently in an outward motion. Applying conditioner to the tips of your hair is a good way of preventing split ends. If you dry your hair with a towel, dab it dry instead of rubbing it forcefully. Shield your hair with a heat protectant spray before using hot styling tools. Maintain a regular schedule of trimming your hair every 8-12 weeks to nip any split ends in the bud.

Dandruff

Dandruff is a common and unsightly hair issue that can negatively affect your physical image. The condition is characterized by flaking and peeling of skin on your scalp. Although dandruff is not a serious or contagious illness, it can worsen if left untreated. Possible causes of dandruff include dry scalp, too much sebum production, and sensitivity to hair products. These can be exacerbated by personal and environmental factors such as stress.

Luckily, dandruff can be treated at home with the routine use of anti-dandruff shampoo that cleanses the scalp. People with poor personal hygiene tend to have more dandruff so make sure to shower regularly. You can also try to complement your cleansing routine with natural anti-inflammatory substances like apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil. Reducing stress, taking probiotics, and increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce scalp irritation and significantly lessen the severity of dandruff.

Dry Hair

Ever run your fingers through your hair and feel that they are wiry or stringy? Contrary to common belief, dry hair is not a hair type but a very common hair ailment. The primary cause of dry hair is a lack of natural oils and moisture. This can be caused by several factors such as excessive heat, strong wind, and over-shampooing. It can also be an indirect effect of a hormonal imbalance due to hyperthyroidism, pregnancy, or menopause.

It is important to address dry hair before it develops into other problems. Avoid damaging factors such as strong sun, chlorine or salt water, harsh chemical treatments, and excessive heat styling. Consume a healthy diet rich in vitamin B5 and omega-3 fatty acids which can help to restore moisture to your hair. Use a leave-in conditioner or a hot oil treatment to rehydrate your hair. You can also apply quality olive oil or virgin coconut oil to clean and dry hair to lock in moisture and keep it soft.

Greasy Hair

The opposite of dry hair is oily or greasy hair, which can also be unsightly as well. Some people are genetically predisposed to having oily hair but most people experience this as a product of their environment or lifestyle. Oily hair occurs when the sebaceous glands of the scalp work too hard. Styling products, airborne pollutants, and an unhealthy diet high in refined fat and carbohydrates can stimulate excess oil production in the scalp.

Over-washing is a common culprit of greasy hair. When you shampoo too often, your scalp overcompensates for the loss of natural oil and secretes even more oil. In response, you wash more frequently and continue the vicious cycle. Try to wash your hair on alternate days instead of every day. Use a clarifying shampoo designed for oily hair and shower in lukewarm water instead of hot water to avoid stimulating the sebaceous glands.

Hair Loss

Hair loss is a normal process in your body and it is common to lose up to a hundred strands of hair per day. That said, if you are noticing more hair on your floors and around your shower trap, you may have cause for concern. Genetics, stress, sickness, hormonal imbalance, medication, poor diet, and inappropriate (or non-existent) hair care routines are just some of the many causes of hair loss. People who tie their hair up very tightly may also experience traction alopecia at the hairline.

Hair loss prevention starts at the scalp. One way to stop hair loss is to improve the circulation of natural oils to the hair follicles by performing a deep massage of the scalp. Improve the quality and quantity of beneficial vitamins and protein in your diet and ensure that you are staying hydrated. Avoid tying your hair up too tightly, especially when it is wet. If these tips do not improve your hair loss, consult a doctor to find out if underlying factors such as illness or genetic conditions are at play.