10 Cheap And Cheerful Hair Care Tips

It's lovely to give your hair a real treat every now and then with that luxurious pampering treatment from the salon - but realistically, to keep your hair in tip-top condition year-round, it's important to make use of some very simple cheap and cheerful hair care tips. There are plenty of things you can do for your hair that don't cost a penny - or that are very, very cheap.

Go Easy on the Shampoo

Some people think that shampooing their hair everyday will keep it clean and soft - but washing too often can strip hair of its natural oils - leaving hair dry, the scalp damaged and the hair more prone to greasiness. Instead, wash hair every other day or if you can get away with it, just 2-3 times per week. It sounds counter-intuitive, we know, but you might just be surprised at how manageable your hair is - and at how much money you'll save on shampoo.

Bin the Blow Dry

If you blow dry and then use another heated appliance such as hair straighteners or a hair curler afterwards, you'll be causing even more damage.Let your hair air dry at least every other day instead of putting it under the strain of the blow dryer and when you do use heated appliances, use plenty of heat defense spray. If you must, must, must blow dry hair each time you wash it, make sure you follow the tip above so that you're not having to blow dry hair every day. Use blow dry products that will keep your hair styled until you next wash it so that you don't have to keep touching hair up with heated appliances before you wash it.

Trim Hair Every 3 Months... At Least

A trim will get rid of split ends and keep your hair feeling manageable, which should also help you cut down on the use of heated appliances. Most hairdressers will also let you pop in for a free trim in between scheduled cuts.

Read More: Top Ten Hair Care Tips for Summer: Protect Your Hair From Sun Damage

Use the Right Tools

If you use a normal hairbrush, rather than a comb on wet hair, you could risk pulling and splitting the hair, causing further damage. It might sound obvious, but it's also really important to follow manufacturer's instructions for combs, brushes, accessories, and heated appliances to minimize stress on your hair.

Cheap Hair Care

Apply A Raw Egg

This tip might sound a little bit strange, but many, many people believe that it nourishes locks and improves hair texture. Whisk one whole raw egg with 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil. Apply to the hair and massage very gently at the roots. Use a comb to thoroughly distribute the mix throughout your hair. Leave to sit for half an hour, then wash and shampoo as normal.

This hair mask is really a great trick - you'll definitely feel the difference in your hair and for mere pence, too.

Massage the Scalp

Massaging the scalp will help to maintain shine and luster, while the hair oil will help to keep hair follicles healthy.

Apply a scant amount of hair oil to the lengths of your hair, wrap your head up in a warm, damp towel and then leave for half an hour. Wash hair as normal, but apply shampoo to dry hair first. Your hair will feel soft, luscious and incredibly manageable. Repeat once a week.

Avoid Harsh Chemicals

It sounds obvious, but many people use harsh chemicals on their hair everyday in the form of cheap shampoos, inexpensive hairsprays and straightening or frizz-reducing products - and wonder why their hair is frizzy, dry and difficult to manage.

Use an SPF Product

If you're going out into the sun or if you live in a particularly warm environment, it's really important to use an SPF product on your hair to protect it from the sun's harmful rays. Failure to protect your hair could result in a burnt scalp and frazzled locks.

Have a Healthy Lifestyle

Cut out processed food, cut out junk food and instead supplement your diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, healthy whole grains and healthy fats. You'll notice a difference in the condition of your scalp, too. If you're a smoker and you quit, your hair will also become stronger, shinier and less lank.

Read More: Keep Locks Luscious With These Winter Hair Care Tips

Be Nice to Your Hair

Our final tip - and we think, our most important tip, is to be nice to your hair.

Bonus Tips

Rinse with Cold Water

After you shampoo, give your hair a blast of cold water. This method helps in sealing the hair cuticles, which not only boosts the shine but also prevents damage. While the initial chill might be a surprise, you'll soon love the extra shine and softness.

DIY Deep Conditioner

Create your conditioner using avocado, honey, and coconut oil. This all-natural blend deeply nourishes the scalp and hair. The fatty acids from avocado and coconut oil moisturize, while honey adds a glossy finish. Apply, relax for half an hour, then rinse for silky-smooth results.

Rice Water Rinse

Ancient traditions swear by this: after washing rice, use the milky water to rinse your hair post-shampoo. Rich in vitamins, it strengthens the roots, promotes growth, and imparts a radiant shine that's noticeable after just a few uses.

Silk Pillowcase Swap

Cotton pillowcases tend to absorb moisture and cause friction, which can lead to hair breakage. Opt for silk pillowcases. They're smoother, reducing the friction and maintaining your hair's natural oils, making mornings with fewer tangles a reality.

A little bit of love goes a long way and your locks will definitely thank you for it!