The issues that could be dulling your strands and how to deal.
The culprit
HEAT STYLING
The irony! Blow-drying and straightening your hair both guarantee a glossy finish, but they can dim hair’s natural shine. “Trichorrhexis nodosa, a common form of breakage caused by overheating hair, chemically treating your hair – like colouring it – or both, can cause hair to grow in weak along the shaft,” explains Fusco. These weakened ridges diminish overall shine.
THE FIX:
Air-dry your hair a few days a week. When heat-styling your hair, minimise damage by first applying a heat protectant, like Kérastase Aura Botanica Lait de Soie (R405). If you heat-style and colour your hair, use a protein treatment, like Hask Keratin Protein Flash Blow-Dry Spray (R160).
The culprit
SUNLIGHT
UV exposure can fade hair colour – old news to anyone who colour-treats her hair. But it may cause dullness even if you’ve never coloured your hair. “UV and heat open the cuticle and break down pigment,” says colourist Sharon Dorram. Plus, exposure to UV and heat causes moisture in your hair to evaporate, drying it out. That combo leads to a matte finish.
THE FIX: Work a protective gloss through damp or dry hair to protect it from UV. Try Moroccanoil Glimmer Shine (R360). Infused with argan oil, vitamins and antioxidants, this hair shine spray creates an invisible veil of pure, luminous shine which helps protect hair against harmful environmental elements like the sun, salt water and chlorine.
The culprit
This story is from the October 2018 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2018 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Should We All Be More GenZ
Those born between 1997 and 2012 now make up more than a fifth of the workforce - and while they might have strong opinions on your jeans, it's not the only thing they care about. From healthy boundaries to prioritising mental wellbeing, WH makes the case for growing down...
OPTIMISE YOUR ENERGY
Experts say we're suffering from a \"fatigue epidemic\" - but that it's fixable. Deep-dive into the research behind this phenomenon and learn to service your source for the long haul.
The Real Art Of Getting Closure
The days of waiting for someone else to give you answers are officially over. Understanding isn't handed to you. It's work you - yes, you! - put in.
May I Recommend Being A Serial Dater And Not Having Sex?
If you like snacks or bad TV, you're already on your way.
Force Of Habit
From over-worrying to over-shopping, your impulses might hold you back more than you think. Cycle-breaking insights, ahead.
Unleash Your Inner Child
Sometimes, finding happiness in the present means healing the past. Experts share simple ways to show kindness to your former self.
Water Works
Proper hydration is the key to healthier, more manageable hair - and it doesn't entail a dramatic overhaul. It starts with a little knowledge and ends with a few moisturising micro-adjustments to your routine.
The Active Girl's Sun & Sweat Guide
Exercising outdoors requires a little extra effort when it comes to protection. But it's worth it. You can level up your SPF game and still enjoy open-air workouts.
Tatjana Schoenmaker
Trailblazer Tatjana Schoenmaker reflects on her remarkable career, what drives her and how she hopes to make the most of her future needs.
Charted Waters
Take a deep dive into the sport that'll shape, tone and help you find mindfulness. Your guide to swimming, right here.