Get these haircare basics right to avoid ruining your hair this monsoon

There is nothing more frustrating than waking up to hair strands that have decorated your pillow or are trying to combat those that are conspiring to leave you looking like Monica Geller in Barbados. And this is especially annoying in the monsoon. It’s almost as if the weather compels our hair to rebel. And if you don’t know how to tackle this, it could lead to some serious damage. We’re talking infections, dryness, dandruff and so much more. 

Read on to know a few tips on how you can protect your hair this monsoon season. From oiling to tweaking your hair wash routine, these tips will keep your hair looking picture-perfect throughout this dry and wet season. 

Oil massages  

Hair oil massages have been an Indian hair care tradition for generations. Oil nourishes the hair and strengthens it to face any kind of aggressor, environmental or otherwise. And while we’ve always been encouraged to use coconut or almond, there are a plethora of hair oils that are infused with ingredients like hibiscus or jasmine that cater specifically to your hair concerns. These hair oils hydrate, smoothen, and eliminate frizz (one of the biggest monsoon haircare concerns). With regular use, you’ll see your hair texture improve and it will thank you by not behaving like an unruly teenager.  

Comb your hair properly 

We know what you’re thinking—how many different ways are there to comb your hair? Well, if you don’t want your tresses detaching themselves and ghosting you, quite a few. First, use a wide-toothed comb and be extremely gentle to ensure no breakage is caused; being rough might let your knots out sooner but it will make your hair weak and more prone to damage. Second, never comb your hair immediately after a hair wash when it is soaking wet as it boosts hair fall and your comb will be covered in hair strands by the end of it. If you have extremely dry or curly hair that doesn’t sit well in the monsoon, a good option is to comb them (very gently) in the shower while you’ve applied conditioner. This minimises damage. Work out the tangles on the bottom and work your way up. 

Tweak your hair wash routine  

Considering rainwater is slightly acidic, it can alter the pH balance of your hair, leading to your tresses becoming dry, frizzy, and coarse. To avoid this, wash your hair two to three times a week, use a deep conditioning treatment once a week and a clarifying shampoo once a week. If you get wet in the rain, shampoo, condition, and thoroughly dry your hair as soon as you can to prevent itchiness, dandruff or any other infections. The key to healthy hair during the monsoons (and otherwise) is scalp care.  

Switch to clean, chemical-free haircare products

The moisture and the humidity in the air make it difficult for your hair to look its best. And if you use products that are chock-a-block with chemical ingredients, you’re taking away whatever little your hair has to thrive. While these products promise many benefits, they also clog your pores and contribute majorly to product build up, which is amplified by the climate. It’s just easier to clear your shelf of these chemical-laden products and move to clean beauty brands that provide ingredient transparency, so you know exactly what you’re putting in your hair.