Natural Home Remedies for Dry, Curly Hair

Hair is one of the most beautiful natural assets gifted to humans, and over the centuries people have been trying hard to find a way to keep their hair eternally shiny, soft and luscious. The ancient Greeks were one of the first groups of people to pay close attention to hair, and as curly hair and pale skin were generally desired in those times, the upper-class elite found ways to curl their hair even if they were born with straight tresses.

Over the years, curly hair has been a symbol of wealth and prosperity in Caucasian society, and one only needs to watch a few period dramas set in the time of Austen to realize that there is not one straight haired belle at any of the balls. In the 1900s, actresses like Shirley Temple and Marilyn Monroe brought curls back into fashion.

Even to date, people with curly hair are admired greatly, but many curly haired beauties are now opting for the straighter hair, because curly hair can be harder to maintain (or so they say). Although it is generally acknowledged that curly hair needs more work, there are many inexpensive and efficient ways we can make our curls as glossy as they were meant to be.

Let's first look at what causes such diversity in hair types, shapes, thicknesses and textures. The simple answer is: your genes! Look down your family tree and you will notice a pattern. Chances are high that you have inherited a hair type of either your parents or grandparents. A study conducted in 2009 shows that 85-95% of the characteristics we inherit when it comes to hair can be easily traced back to our DNA. There are a few other factors like medication, natural aging, chemicals, environment and hormones that can also change the way your hair looks with time.

What happens on a microscopic level is that the shape of hair follicles determines the type of hair the person can grow. So, this means that if the follicle is symmetrical, it produces straight hair, and conversely, if the follicle happens to be asymmetrical, it will produce curly hair.

READ How To Tame Curly Hair

A common problem all curly haired people have had to contend with is the fact that their hair is more prone to dryness and damage than their straight-haired counterparts. This is because the natural oils are not able to easily travel from the scalp down the length of the strand of hair because of its curly structure. This then causes the famous dry and 'frizzy' hair that is usually associated with curls.

With winter and the threat of low humidity coming closer every day, it is very important that we are prepared for the toll it will take on our hair. During this time, curly hair dries out, becomes brittle and is more prone to tangling and breakage. Split ends destroy your hair, and inhibit its growth. So, pre-emptive action must be taken to prepare your hair for harsh weather. Who wouldn't want to look their best for Christmas anyway?

Now for Some Natural Ways to Get Your Curls Looking Shiny and Bouncy

The cost of hair care products has gone skyrocketing, white various powders, potions and pills promising you more, but giving you much less. A survey done by Hair Trade showed that the women surveyed would spend up to $40k during their lifetime on haircuts, artificial coloring and professional styling. Why spend so much on products, when there are great and proven natural alternatives out there? If you are a curly haired person, chances are that you have tried you share of hair products out there, but why not give these natural remedies a shot? You may be surprised by the results.

1. Oil Massage

For the Greeks, this was a well-known hair treatment. They were known to use olive oil for their hair and leave it in for hours because they thought it led to shinier hair. They were right. Oil is known to be a great natural conditioner.

For this, you can use oils like olive oil, coconut oil, or flaxseed oil. To increase absorption, heat the oil for 2-4 minutes before gently massaging into damp hair. Make sure you use your fingertips to rub the warm old into your scalp and then up to the tip of your hair. Make sure you leave the oil in for a while before you ultimately rinse it out.

2. Egg Yolks

Take a hint from the many shampoos that contain egg yolk supplements, and try out an egg yolk mask for your hair. Your hair needs proteins and amino acids to grow long and strong, and egg yolks are a good source of nourishment because they are rich in these very nutrients. In addition to this, the yolks are rich in A, E and D vitamins that boost hair growth, prevent hair loss, and encourage the production of natural hair oils. The one fatty acid that egg yolks contain called lecithin works particularly well for curly hair as it discourages dryness, unnecessary frizz and hair breakage.

3. Yogurt

This is also a household remedy to keep your curls in place. Yogurt is known to add shine and strength to your hair as it is rich in lactic acids. Using yogurt is guaranteed to give you the soft and shiny hair you desire. A common way it is used is mixed in honey (which also adds moisture to your hair), and then applied directly on to the hair as a paste.

READ An Avocado a Day Might Just Keep the Doctor Away

4. Avocado

This fruit is known for its hydrating effects on hair, so is a great option for dry curls. It can be mixed with oil, yogurt or honey to make a smooth paste for your hair.

5. Aloe Vera

This is known as the miracle plant because of its numerous medical benefits. It's a fleshy cactus-like plant that contains a gel that works wonders on damaged hair. It contains certain enzymes and amino acids that help repair your hair and moisten your scalp. In addition to this, it also contains vitamins A, B, C and E that will nourish your curls and encourage growth.