This January we have been looking at the things we can do to encourage luscious locks and maintain a calm, balanced scalp.  In this journal post we’ll be sharing the at-home haircare rituals you can do to encourage healthy hair and support a healthy scalp.

We are also thrilled to announce an exciting partnership with Detox Kitchen, who are gifting Haug London Haus clients’ delicious snacks to enjoy during their appointments in the salon this month.  Their gorgeous looking, nutritious food has inspired us to look a little deeper into the ways in which we can try to encourage healthy hair from both the inside and outside.

The products we love to care for the scalp

Everybody’s scalp microbiome is unique to them, when the microbiome is in balance, the scalp feels moisturised and calm which supports healthy hair growth.  When the scalp’s microbiome is disrupted, it can lead to various issues like dandruff, excess oil or sensitivity. 

Leaving a build-up of products like dry shampoo in your hair could start to make your scalp feel dry and flaky. Whilst you don’t want to over wash your hair, going too long between shampoos isn’t ideal either.  Aim to cleanse your hair on average two to three times a week.   If you find yourself with hair that feels overloaded with products, use a clarifying shampoo to cleanse first.  These are fantastic for removing excess product build up, silicones and perfumes from the hair. 

Our go to is the BC Clean Balance Deep Cleansing Shampoo.  When using a clarifying shampoo, it is important to follow the initial cleanse with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to leave the hair feeling soft and nourished.

How to treat your hair for well-conditioned, glossy locks

Winter elements like central heating take the humidity out of the air and can have a drying effect. Heavy brushing, heat styling or an over processed colour can also cause dry, damaged hair.  The good news is that these cold January days are the perfect time to stay in and indulge in some hair self-care.  

For ultimate condition on a deeper level, try drenching your locks in a hair mask that offers restorative hydration and gently pull it back into a plait or bun to allow it to soak into the hair for a while.  Bonus points if you have a shower cap to place over it as this traps the heat in, creating an extra conditioning environment. Like a mini hair spa at home!

 In addition to hair masks, hair oils are a fantastic source of moisture.  They are mini bottles of hair goodness that coat the surface of the hair with softness and provide a glossy topcoat of light reflective shine. Perfect to use after blow drying to seal in the hydration of your mask.

Haug London Haus Colour Director Siobhan Haug says her favourite winter hair combo is the Fibre Clinix at home Hydrate Treatment, (shampoo, apply and leave it in for ten minutes once a week) followed by a couple of pumps of Fibre Clinix Bonding Light Oil after blow-drying.  It provides smoothness and shine to the hair surface and a lightweight, moisturised finish.

Supporting healthy hair from within

A well-balanced diet with a mix of protein, vitamins and healthy fats are key to supporting healthy hair growth from the inside.  Hair is mostly made up of a protein called keratin, and so protein rich foods are great for supporting the hairs growth.  Protein comes in many forms like chicken, fish, and legumes such as chickpeas, soybeans and lentils. Protein is also found in dairy products like eggs (which are full of essential nutrients) and in nuts such as almonds, pumpkin seeds and cashews.  Walnuts have the added benefit of containing omega-3 fatty acids, thought to be good for scalp health.

The right balance of protein, iron, vitamins and fatty acids in your diet are all important to promote healthy hair from within.

This journal post offers general information to support healthy hair.

However, if you have any specific concerns regarding your hair, scalp, or nutrition, it is always advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.