hair care

Health Benefits of Corn

Health benefits of corn include controlling diabetes, prevention of heart ailments, lowering hypertension and prevention of neural-tube defects at birth. Corn or maize is one of the most popular cereals in the world and forms the staple food in many countries, including the United States and many African countries.

Health Benefits of Corn

The kernels of corn are what hold the majority of corn’s nutrients, and are the most commonly consumed parts of the vegetable. The kernels can come in multiple colors, depending on where the corn is grown and what species or variety they happen to be. Another genetic variant, called sweetcorn, has more sugar and less starch in the nutritive material.

Nutritional Value of Corn

Corn not only provides the necessary calories for healthy, daily metabolism, but is also a rich source of vitamins A, B, E and many minerals. Its high fiber content ensures that it plays a significant role in the prevention of digestive ailments like constipation and hemorrhoids as well as colorectal cancer. The antioxidants present in corn also act as anti-carcinogenic agents and prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Health Benefits of Corn

Corn provides many health benefits due to the presence of quality nutrients within. Besides being a delicious addition to any meal, it is also rich in phytochemicals, and it provides protection against a number of chronic diseases. Some of the well-researched and widespread health benefits of corn are listed below.Rich source of calories: Corn is a rich source of calories and is a staple among dietary habits in many populations. The calorific content of corn is 342 calories per 100 grams, which is among the highest for cereals. It is why corn is often turned to for quick weight gain, and combined with the ease and flexibility of growing conditions for corn, the high calorie content makes it vital for the survival of dozens of agricultural-based nations.

Reduces risk of hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer: The fiber content of one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to corn being a whole-grain. Fiber has long been promoted as a way to reduce colon risk, but insufficient and conflicting data exists for fiber’s relationship with preventing cancer, although whole-grain consumption, on the whole, has been proven to reduce that risk. Fiber helps to bulk up bowel movements, which stimulates peristaltic motion and even stimulates the production of gastric juice and bile. It can also add bulk to overly loose stools, which can slow reduce the chances of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.

Rich source of vitamins: Corn is rich in vitamin B constituents, especially Thiamin and Niacin. Thiamin is essential for maintaining nerve health and cognitive function. Niacin deficiency leads to Pellagra; a disease characterized by diarrhea, dementia and dermatitis that is commonly observed in malnourished individuals. Corn is also a good source of Pantothenic acid, which is an essential vitamin for carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body. Deficiency of folic acid in pregnant women can lead to the birth of underweight infants and may also result in neural tube defects in newborns. Corn provides a large percentage of the daily folate requirement, while the kernels of corn are rich in vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that is essential for growth and protection of the body from illness and disease.

Provides necessary minerals: Corn contains abundant minerals which positively benefit the bodies in a number of ways. phosphorous, along with magnesium, manganese, zinc, iron and copper are found in all varieties of corn. It also contains trace minerals like selenium, which are difficult to find in most normal diets. Phosphorous is essential for regulating normal growth, bone health and optimal kidney functioning. Magnesium is necessary for maintaining a normal heart rate and for increasing bone strength.

Antioxidant properties: According to studies carried out at Cornell University, corn is a rich source of antioxidants which fight cancer-causing free radicals. In fact, unlike many other foods, cooking actually increases the amount of usable antioxidants in sweet corn. Corn is a rich source of a phenolic compound called ferulic acid, an anti-carcinogenic agent that has been shown to be effective in fighting the tumors which lead to breast cancer as well as liver cancer. Anthocyanins, found in purple corn, also act as scavengers and eliminators of cancer-causing free radicals. Antioxidants have been shown to reduce many of the most dangerous forms of cancer because of their ability to induce apoptosis in cancerous cells, while leaving healthy cells unaffected. This is particularly relevant when phytochemicals are the source of the antioxidants, which is another type of chemical found in high volumes in corn.

Protecting Your Heart: According to researchers, corn oil has been shown to have an anti-atherogenic effect on cholesterol levels, thus reducing the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Corn oil, particularly, is the best way to increase heart health, and this is derived from the fact that corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging “bad” cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, will reduce blood pressure, and decrease the change of heart attack and stroke.

Prevents Anemia: The vitamin B12 and folic acid present in corn prevent anemia caused by a deficiency of these vitamins. Corn also has a significant level of iron, which is one of the essential minerals needed to form new red blood cells; a deficiency in iron is one of the main cause of anemia as well.

Lowers LDL Cholesterol: According to the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, consumption of corn husk oil lowers plasma LDL cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption in the body. As mentioned earlier, this reduction of LDL cholesterol does not mean a reduction in HDL cholesterol, which is considered “good cholesterol” and can have a variety of beneficial effects on the body, including the reduction of heart disease, prevention of atherosclerosis, and a general scavenger of free radicals throughout the body.

Vitamin-A Content: Yellow corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin. Beta-carotene is a great source of vitamin-A because it is converted within the body, but only in the amounts that the body requires. Vitamin-A can be toxic if too much is consumed, so deriving vitamin-A through beta-carotene transformation is ideal. Vitamin-A will also benefit the health of skin and mucus membranes, as well as boosting the immune system.

The amount of beta-carotene in the body that is not converted into vitamin-A acts as a very strong antioxidant, like all carotenoids, and can combat terrible diseases like cancer and heart disease. That being said, smokers need to be careful about their beta-carotene content, because smokers with high beta-carotene levels are more likely to contract lung cancer, while non-smokers with high beta-carotene content are less likely to contract lung cancer.

Controls diabetes and hypertension: In recent decades, the world has seemed to suffer from an epidemic of diabetes. Although the exact mechanism for this cannot be pinpointed, it is generally assumed to relate to nutrition. Eating more organic fruits and vegetables, like corn, has been thought to be a return to an older style of diet, and it has been linked to reduced signs of diabetes. Studies have shown that the consumption of corn kernels assists in the management of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and is effective against hypertension due to the presence of phenolic phytochemicals in whole corn. Phytochemicals can regulate the absorption and release of insulin in the body, which can reduce the chance of spikes and drops for diabetic patients and help them maintain a more normal lifestyle.

Cosmetic benefits: Corn starch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically to soothe skin rashes and irritation. Corn products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many of the traditional skin creams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse.

Source: organic facts

Benefits of Shikakai (Acacia Concinna) for your hair

Benefits of Shikakai (Acacia Concinna) for your hair

Shikakai, which is popularly used in India, is a herbal powder which is made from the fruit pods of the Acacia Concinna tree. Shikakai is a wonderful herb that has been used for years for hair care.

Good, lustrous hair is certainly on the wish list of every woman, but in this hectic life we hardly get any time to maintain a beauty regime. Here are a few benefits of Shikakai for your hair:

-Shikakai has low pH level and hence is a natural cleanser for your scalp, cleansing it gently. -Shikakai with its natural elements is believed to promote hair growth and also reduces hair fall.

-It acts as a great detangler to leave you with those beautiful locks that you would love to run your fingers through. -Shikakai also prevents hair from greying naturally.

-Shikakai is rich in essential nutrients like Vitamin C and doesn’t make the scalp dry therby preventing dandruff and other scalp problems.

Source: zee news

29 Amazing Benefits Of Amla Juice For Skin, Hair And Health

amla-juice

Amla or Indian gooseberry is popular since decades due to its nutritional benefits. In India, this fruit is used in making pickles, chutneys, jams and murabbas. Amla juice is a healthy drink as it is a storehouse of vitamin C and other nutrients which provide an array of health and beauty benefits. Amla fruit is greatly renowned and amla juice is also used in Ayurvedic medicine.

It is regarded as the juice of immortality or the magic potion which keeps you young and fit. Drinking amla juice twice a day can do wonders for your body and skin. It not only improves the appearance of your skin but also helps maintain proper body functions. It also makes your hair grow stronger.

Amla juice is a great drink to recharge your energy for the rest of the day. Being a storehouse of vitamin C and minerals like iron, it can prevent various diseases and improves your health. Regular intake of this juice provides you the following health benefits.

1. Relieves Asthma And Bronchitis:

Drinking amla juice with honey twice daily can relieve asthma and bronchitis complications. It also reduces the incidence of chronic cough, allergic asthma and tuberculosis.

2. Burns Fat:

Amla juice can cure obesity by increasing protein levels which in turn helps in reducing unwanted fat. It has the ability to create a positive nitrogen balance. It reduces the cholesterol levels, thus minimizing the risk of heart attacks.

3. Relieves Constipation And Piles:

Amla juice helps in relieving constipation caused due to piles. It also regulates the bowel movements and cures chronic constipation.

4. Treatment of Gastric Disorders:

Amla juice is great treatment for gastric disorders and hyperchlorhydria (burning sensation in abdomen).It is a good remedy for diarrhea and dysentery. Besides piles and constipation, it helps maintain healthy liver functions. Amla juice is effective in treating peptic ulcers and acidity. If you have acidity problems, you can take amla juice with pure ghee everyday twice a day. Read Also http://www.texilaconnect.com/ayurvedic-remedies-for-hair-loss/

5. Blood Purifier:

Amla juice acts as a blood purifier by flushing out toxins from the body. Regular intake of this juice purifies your blood as well as helps increase hemoglobin and red blood cell counts.

6. Eye Health:

Regular intake of amla juice helps in improving eyesight and nearsightedness as well as controls the onset of cataracts. It also minimizes intraocular tension. It counters problems like reddening, itching and watering of eyes.

7. Beneficial For Heart:

Amla juice is considered a great remedy for heart problems as it makes the heart muscles strong, thus enabling the heart to pump blood easily.

8. Controls Diabetes:

Amla juice taken with turmeric powder and honey helps in controlling diabetes.

9. Cooling Agent:

Amla juice contains 20 times more vitamin C than orange juice. This vitamin improves the tannins that are required to shield heat and light. During summer season, this juice keeps your skin cool by sorting out heat from the body. It also acts as a shield against radiation by protecting you against the harmful UV rays.

10. Soothes Inflammation:

The anti-inflammatory properties in amla juice help in reducing the swelling in the joints caused by arthritis. By reducing inflammation, it also protects and eases the tissues of the digestive tract.

11. Oral Health:

Daily intake of amla juice wards off bad breath and strengthens teeth. Gargling with a mixture of water and amla juice can provide relief from painful mouth ulcers.

12. Treatment of Insomnia:

Amla juice is effective in curing insomnia. All you need to do is take fresh amla juice with a mixture of coarse powder of nutmeg; and experience a sound and peaceful sleep.

13. Prevents Cancer:

Amla juice is rich in antioxidants, particularly superoxide dismutase (SOD), which protect against the formation of free radicals. Thus, regular intake of this juice helps in preventing cancer.

14. Bone Health:

Regular consumption of amla juice lowers the osteoclasts, the cells that are responsible for breaking down the bones.

15. Other Benefits:

Amla juice comprises of many minerals and vitamins such as carotene, phosphorus, calcium, iron and vitamin B complex; and hence, is a powerful antioxidant. It protects against oxidative stress by eliminating free radicals. It fortifies our liver, strengthens your lung, nourishes your brain, improves muscle tone, improves your urinary system and balances stomach acids. In fact, according to Ayurveda, regular consumption of amla juice promotes longevity.

Benefits Of Amla Juice For Skin

Amla juice works wonders for your skin as it is loaded with vitamin C and other antioxidants. Some of the benefits of amla juice for skin are as follows.

16. Lightens Complexion:

The antioxidants and vitamin C present in amla juice brighten your skin and impart a natural glow to it. Drinking amla juice with the addition of honey or applying it as a face pack is great for making your complexion lighter and brighter. It also keeps your skin free from blemishes.

17. Anti-ageing Benefits:

Amla juice helps to maintain the youthful look of your skin as it contains a lot of antioxidants. Vitamin C, in particular, acts to keep your skin young for a longer time. Thus, regular intake of amla juice delays the effects of premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots etc.

18. Treatment of Pigmentation:

One of the benefits of drinking amla juice regularly is that it provides you with a glowing and flawless skin. It brightens your skin and reduces pigmentation. You can also apply amla juice on your face with a cotton wool and rinse off after a few minutes. Keep your eyes shut while doing so. Doing this regularly will lighten the marks and pigmentation.

19. Tones and Tightens Skin:

Decrease in the skin collagen causes your skin tissue to lose its firmness and softness, resulting in sagging skin. As stated earlier, amla juice is rich in vitamin C which boosts the production of collagen cells in the skin, thus making your skin soft, supple and youthful as well as tones and tightens your skin.

20. Treatment of Acne and Pimples:

Amla juice is perfect for the treatment of acne and pimple scars. Applying a paste made from amla for 10 to 15 minutes will heal the spots as well as decrease the acne and pimples. Moreover, since it is a natural blood purifier, it fights the microorganisms in the skin, thus keeping skin infections as well as acne and pimples at bay. Hence, drinking amla juice on a regular basis helps to keep your skin clear and flawless.

21. Exfoliates And Cleanses Skin:

Amla juice is an excellent cleanser whether ingested or applied topically. Being a mild exfoliant, it helps in removing the dead skin cells. If your skin is sensitive, you can dilute it with some water before applying.

22. Repairs Damaged Tissues:

Amla juice has good healing properties due to the presence of vitamin C and other antioxidants which can speed up the damaged tissue repair, thus providing you with a healthy and clear skin. It also combats the problem of dry and scaly skin.

Amla Juice Benefits For Hair

Amla has been considered as a hair tonic and so amla juice also plays an important role in making your hair healthier and stronger. It is an effective natural remedy for several hair problems. Some of its benefits in hair care are as follows.

23. Strengthens Hair:

Amla juice strengthens your hair follicles, thus encouraging hair growth. You can apply a mixture of amla and lemon juice on your scalp and leave it for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water. This will strengthen your hair from roots and make it shinier.

24. Prevents Premature Graying:

Amla juice is very beneficial for those suffering from premature graying of hair. This is because it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C which prevent premature graying of hair.

25. Treatment of Dandruff:

Dandruff is a common problem these days and having amla juice is an effective way of getting rid of it. Regular consumption of this juice prevents accumulation of dandruff on your scalp.

26. Improves Pigmentation:

Amla juice helps to improve pigmentation and color of hair and makes it darker and thicker. It is used as an effective ingredient in hair dyes and other hair care products. It is great for the treatment of hair discoloration and graying hair.

27. Good Conditioner:

Amla juice acts as a great conditioner for dry and rough hair. You can mix some amla juice with henna and apply it on your hair. This will counteract the drying nature of henna, thus providing you with healthy and conditioned hair. You can also use it as a hair wash to add extra shine and bounce.

28. Scalp Cleanser:

You can mix amla juice with an egg, beat it and massage your hair with it. Amla juice will mask the smell of eggs and provide you with shiny, silky and squeaky clean nourished scalp.

29. Prevents Hair Problems:

Besides strengthening your hair, regular consumption of amla juice helps to deal with several hair problems like hair loss, split ends and frizzy hair.

Hence amla juice offers countless benefits for your skin, hair and health by enriching your body with vital nutrients. It deserves to be incorporated in your diet and can be a healthy alternative for various dietary supplements sans the negative effects.

Source: style craze

Tips To Repair Split Ends

cure-split-ends

Split ends means your hair is not getting enough nourishment and lacks moisture. Harsh shampoos, sun exposure , blow drying, straightening, dyes and bleaches dry out the hair and damages the amino acids in your hair. Dry and damaged hair breaks easily while styling or brushing. If you think your hair is not growing fast then split ends could be the possible reason.

Here are some easy tips to cure split ends:

Alcohol Free Shampoo :

Avoid using shampoos that contain alcohol as it dries out hair. Use shampoos that contain natural ingredients. Also, Excessive washing with harsh shampoos makes your hair ends dry. You should not shampoo more than 3 times a week. It is better to wash your hair every alternate day than everyday. ALso, do not use hot water to wash your hair.

Let It Dry Naturally :

Avoid heat as much as possible. Heat is the worst enemy for your hair but its hard to completely avoid hair dryers and flat iron. It is best to apply a heat resistant serum to your hair before using heat. Towel dry your hair before drying, this way you minimize the damage of heat on wet hair. Also, use flat irons and curlers occasionally instead of everyday.

Get a Trim:
The best solution for split ends is to get a trim. You get split ends when you dont trim your hair for a long time. Always trim your hair once every 6-8 weeks to get rid of dry & weak parks and promote hair growth.

Treatments:
There are many treatments available which repair hair damage and provide moisture and nourishment. They can seal the split ends but not completely cure them so its better to use them with regular trimming to keep off split ends and help prevent future damage. Use a deep conditioner twice a week after you shampoo your hair. There are many easy homemade treatments that you can do to repair split ends.

Here are some easy homemade treatments for split ends :

Egg Mask :
Mix egg yolk in 3 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp honey. Gently massage this mask in your hair and cover with a shower cap. Leave it on for half an hour and wash it with a mild shampoo.

Oil :
Message your scalp with oil. Oiling regularly can restore moisture of your hair. Use olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil or a combination of these oils. Apply oil on your hair and message gently. Leave it on for about an hour then wash with shampoo.

Papaya Mask :
Papaya is rich in proteins which your hair needs in order to maintain its shine, moisture and growth. Mash 2 medium slices of papaya with a fork or in a blender. Mix 2 tbsp yogurt in it, apply it your scalp and hair.Cover your hair with a shower cap to lock the moisture. Leave it on for 30 minutes then wash with shampoo.

Honey rinse :
Another easy homemade conditioner for hair is honey. Mix 2 tbsp honey in 4 cups warm water and apply it to your hair after you shampoo/ condition your hair. Leave it in your hair. It will control hair dryness/frizz.

Source: 7beauty tips

 

Ayurvedic Remedies for Hair Loss

There are certain problems that pester you so much that you finally tend to give up on them. Many skin and hair problems are such. For example, excessive hair fall is one issue that many have given up thinking about. This is basically because no chemicals or combinations of modern treatments have shown to actually work!

That is chiefly the reason why more and more people around the world are now turning to the ancient Indian ayurveda for various health issues. Especially for nagging problems, where conventional medicine with its chemical formulations, often does not give a comprehensive cure, the much safer option of ayurveda is proving to be the ray of hope for many.

For those struggling with the frustrating problem of hair fall, ayurveda has a wholesome approach to the issue.

Undertanding the ayurvedic approach

Ayurveda believes that the bodily constitution of an individual and the genetic traits affect the quality of hair and initiation of hair loss. The most common causes of hair fall, found among women, are nutritional deficiencies and hormonal problems. Sometimes, hair loss can also occur due to a chronic illness or taking strong medications, like steroids.

Ayurveda seeks to cure hair loss in a more holistic manner. The therapy is based on addressing the causes behind hair loss directly. So, metabolic disturbances among various biochemicals, including hormones, which lead to hair loss, are corrected.

Pitta body type and its dietary soothers

According to ayurvedic texts, individuals with the Pitta body type often experience more hair fall. According to this science, these people are of moderate body size, short-tempered, irritable and aggressive. Pitta elements in the circulation are aggravated by wrong dietary and lifestyle choices. Therefore, excessive consumption of hot, sour, salty and spicy foods, along with excessive intake of beverages like tea and coffee, fuel the Pitta. This in turn contributes towards hair loss, according to the principles of ayurveda. A Pitta constitution means a robust digestive system, often leading to overating. This can lead to indigestion and acidity, generating a lot of bodily heat, which needs to be controlled.

Consuming meat and alcohol can also induce hair loss among some people. The intake of greasy, oily and fried foods that are heat-generating, acidic and tend to aggravate the Pitta, should be avoided. Thus, ayurveda healers recommend including cooling foods like asparagus, mint (pudina), coriander (dhaniya) leaves, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, bitter gourd (karela), green leafy vegetables, pineapple, cherries, yogurt and warm milk. Ice cold drinks should be avoided for healthier and better digestion.

Cleaning, massaging of the scalp

Hair should not be cleaned with chemical formulations like commercially available shampoos. Ayurveda recommends using natural cleansers like Indian gooseberry (amla) and shikakai for washing hair. This should be supported with regular massaging of the scalp with natural oils like coconut oil and amla oil.  Read Also: http://www.texilaconnect.com/health-benefits-of-natural-wonders-amla/

Sometimes, ayurveda health practioners even recommend medicated oils to be mixed with your regular coconut oil. This includes oils like kunthala and neelibhringadi oil. These oils help to strengthen the roots of the hair, preventing further hair loss. Massaging with warm ayurvedic oils helps to boost the blood circulation to the scalp, which stimulates hair growth in dormant hair follicles.

Cleansing the body from within

Ayurveda practioners recommend that bowel movement should be regular to ensure that toxins are not retained within the body. These toxins are responsible for aggravating hair loss. Thus, bowel cleansers are commonly recommended. Among these, triphala is the most recommended of all ayurvedic herbs. In case you suffer from chronic constipation, it should be discussed in detail with the health professional.

Some easy solutions

Apart from those that experts suggest, there are some more easy and safe solutions that ayurveda recommends for those suffering from hair fall:

  • Apply a paste of coriander leaves to alleviate itchiness and dryness of the scalp.
  • Use a paste of fenugreek (methi) seeds and cooked, green gram on the scalp two times a week.
  • Soak methi seeds in coconut oil, and keep in a glass container, in sunlight. Allow the concoction to gain potency over a period of five days. Then apply it directly to the scalp.
  • For stimulating hair growth, drink a combination of spinach, carrot and lettuce juice.
  • Exercise regularly for balancing the bodily constitution.

Source: yahoo life style

10 Homemade Hair Treatments for Dry, Dull or Frizzy Hair

Need to moisturize?

1. Avocado

Avocado has a well-deserved reputation for one of nature’s perfect foods. Its oils and proteins will smooth and moisturize your locks without weighing down fine hair. Mash up half an avocado and add a couple of drops of peppermint essential oil. Shampoo hair, squeeze out water and apply mask. Let it sit for 15 minutes and then rinse. My hair came out super soft – not flat or greasy. And the added scent made sitting around with green goop on your head much more pleasant. If you’re not worried about weighing down your hair you can amp up the moisture by adding 1-2 tablespoons of oil, egg yolk or yogurt.

2. Coconut Oil

The wonders of coconut oil never cease! This oil is heavy, which is great for penetrating deep into the hair shaft, but use it sparingly, especially if you have fine or thin hair. Take a tablespoon of coconut oil and apply to the ends of damp hair. If the oil is solid just warm in the microwave until liquid before applying. Got really dry hair? Keep the oil on overnight and shampoo out in the morning.

3. Banana + Olive Oil

Not only can bananas work their magic on your feet, but they are awesome for your hair! Mix a banana with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and mash thoroughly until the banana is pureed. (You want a smoothie like texture so you don’t end up with banana chunks in your hair.) Then massage into your hair and scalp. Leave treatment on for 30 minutes then rinse thoroughly and shampoo.

4. Pumpkin + Honey

The perfect use for canned pumpkin leftovers (because there are always leftovers). Pumpkins have lots of amazing benefits – they’re rich in vitamins A and C, beta-carotene, potassium, and zinc. Add 1-2 tablespoons of honey, a natural humectant, to one cup of pumpkin puree and pack as much as you can onto your hair and scalp. You’ll need to either wrap your hair in saran wrap or wear a shower cap to keep the mask in place. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes and then rinse. Feel free to apply to your face as well!

Need a color boost?

5. Cocoa powder

Give brown hair a boost with cocoa powder. According to Whole Living, a combination of cocoa powder, plain yogurt, honey and apple cider vinegar will give you a deeper, richer brown. I couldn’t test this one personally but if you can make bronzer lotion with cocoa powder why not try it in your hair?

6. Lemon + Chamomile

To warm up ashy blonde hair, try lemon and chamomile tea. Both have long been used as whitening agents for blonde hair. You can do a simple rinse by tilting your head back over the sink and pouring a cup of cooled tea combined with the juice of a lemon over clean, wet hair. Let sit for a couple of minutes and rinse. I also tried this brightening mask that combines tea and lemon with a grated potato. Yes, potato! Shampoo, apply to hair and blow dry hair on low for 2-3 minutes. Then rinse and style. This ended up being more work than I’d want to do on a regular basis but I loved how bright and shiny my hair ended up

7. Purple Koolaid

Got some brassiness in your blonde locks? Do a rinse with grape-flavored Kool-Aid to get rid of the dreaded orange. Dude, this totally works. I have never had a problem with my hair turning purple (I have heavy blonde highlights not all over color) but if you do see a hint of color, just shampoo again.

Dull, frizzy hair?

8. Sugar water

If your hair is frizzy, try mixing a packet of sugar (about a teaspoon or so) with a cup of water. Pour a bit into your palms then run hands over dry hair. Your hair will get a slight bit of “crunch” and hold because you basically just made homemade hair spray!

9. Aspirin

Residue and product buildup will also dull your hair. The cure is as simple as crushing an aspirin into shampoo! Just add the aspirin powder to a small amount of shampoo and lather up. The salicylic acid in aspirin helps remove buildup and restore shine. You can do this every two weeks. Another remedy: baking soda. Combine a handful of shampoo with one to two tablespoons of baking soda and massage into hair. Warning: I have used baking soda to intentionally strip out hair color (because the color was too dark) so don’t use baking soda on recently colored hair.

10. Apple cider vinegar

An apple cider vinegar rinse helps clarify and smooth hair cuticles – the secret to shiny hair! Combine a tablespoon of vinegar with a 1/2 cup of water and pour over damp hair. Add a couple of drops of essential oil is the smell is too much. Comb through hair, let it sit for five minutes and then rinse. The acidity in the vinegar helps seal the outermost layer of your hair, the cuticles, making it lie flat.

Source: Stumble Upon

 

Hair Transplants Not for the Young, Expert Warns

25-year-old Manchester United footballer Wayne Rooney surprised the world when he tweeted a picture of himself (with his new locks) immediately following a hair transplant procedure.

He posted on his Twitter account, “Just to confirm to all my followers, I have had a hair transplant. I was going bald at 25 why not. I’m delighted with the result.”

Rooney underwent Follicular Unit Extraction, also known as FUE, the most advanced hair restoration method available today. Three months later, the results are looking great, but one hair transplant expert warns that it might not last forever.

Dr. Bessam Farjo, one of the world’s leading hair transplant doctors and founder of the Farjo Medical Centre, told BBC News that young men like Rooney should wait until they are around the age of 30 to undergo hair transplant surgery.

And while Rooney’s surgery brought awareness to male pattern baldness and hair restoration, Dr. Farjo thinks it’s sending the wrong message to other guys in their 20’s.

“When a celebrity comes out with it, you only hear the good things. You don’t hear the cautions or the potential complications,” he told BBC.

Although he’s seen interest from more young men since Rooney’s surgery, the complications are apparently so great, that Dr. Farjo doesn’t recommend any hair transplant procedure for patients under 25 years of age.

This might not be good news for the thousands of young men who start to experience hair loss in their late teens and early 20’s, but Dr. Farjo makes a good point.

He explained to BBC that if a patient receives a hair transplant too young, his body still may be going through the hair loss process, and this could mean a very awkward-looking long-term result.

He said, “If you have the surgery too early and you go bald, you don’t have enough hair to keep chasing the hair loss. You can end up with isolated patches of hair. You could end up with hairy temples and a bald forehead, which isn’t pretty, but is also hard to fix.”

Hairy temples and a bald forehead?

Most guys would probably agree that waiting a few years would be completely worth avoiding a mess like that.

The good news is there are other things that can be done to prevent hair loss at a young age. Before diving straight into surgery, Dr. Farjo does everything in his power to preserve a patient’s already existing hair.

He explained, “I ask them questions about their family history, record the hair loss, and monitor it over a period of time. I also offer them medication to see if their hair stops falling out. I am then able to have a much fuller picture of how much hair they will lose.”

Predicting an individual’s total hair loss, he said, is the key to achieving excellent hair transplant surgery results.

Unfortunately, however, there are no age limits or regulations in place to inform or protect younger patients from undergoing hair restoration surgery. Dr. Farjo says some hair transplant clinics are more concerned with making money, rather than the health and happiness of their patients.

As an alternative, he suggests that surgeons work to inform colleagues and patients about the risks associated with age, as a form of self-quality control within the community of hair transplant specialists.

For younger men currently experiencing hair loss, you may want to take advantage of FUE or FUT technology and nip baldness in the bud, but take Dr. Farjo’s advice and wait it out.

Source: Where is my doctor

how to style your hair without harming it

Who doesn’t want to look perfect on their wedding day? Brides start planning months before what dress will they wear, what the jewellery be like, but hairstyling is often ignored. In the end, all of them pretty much get the same kind of hairdo – curled or straightened hair tied in a bun. But beauty experts have advised brides-to-be to skip the hair dryer and curling iron and switch to no-heat hairstyles while getting ready for their big day. Read essential skincare tips for brides-to-be.

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Rod Anker,Vogue’s Colorist of the Year, said that for the sangeet and ring ceremony, hair can be let loose. Also, waves and loose buns bring out your hair’s natural texture and give a totally natural look, he said.

How to get these looks

After taking a shower, towel-dry your hair and part it where you like it and if your curls tend to loosen out quickly, lightly run some styling foam or mousse through it, Anker explained. Monsoon Salon does rehearsals on bridal hairdos before executing the look on D-day.

For instantly glamourising your look with curls, begin by twisting your hair away from your face in a wringing motion and continue twisting until hair dries, Anker added. Try these haircare tips for brides.

A ‘doughnut bun’ is another hairstyle, which if piled right on top of your head, gives the illusion of height, that is very in this season. You can get a doughnut ruffle from any accessory store. To do the style, simply thread the ponytail through this and wrap your hair around the doughnut creatively and accessorize with flowers, Ambika Pillai suggested.

Centre parting is also in these days and brides can wear a heavy maang-teeka after they section their hair from the middle. They leave it open during the reception and sangeet functions and tie it into a bun during the wedding rituals. If you have too frizzy hair, calm them down by applying aloe vera gel in it. Read more tips to tame frizzy hair. If need some bounce in your mane, wash your hair and take the last rinse of amla powder diluted with water. Here are home remedies for all your hair problems.

Source: Health

Hair rebonding, smoothening or keratin treatment: which one suits you?

According to Adhuna Bhabani Akhtar, celebrity hairstylist, there are three basic ways to chemically straighten hair – by rebonding, smoothening or by keratin treatment, depending on how straight the hair is required to be. Find out which one is best-suited for your hair.

Keratin treatment

According to Rod Anker, Creative Director of Monsoon Salon and Spa, keratin treatment relaxes the curls and frizziness of the hair – making it only appear to be straight. It not only promises to make your hair smooth, shiny and frizz-free, it also makes it straight but not in an unnatural-looking, poker-straight strands. It softens your curls and with the help of other chemicals, helps retain the look for a good few months

Hair rebonding

This treatment is quite suited for people who have very curly hair and the end result is poker straight hair. In this process, the bonds of your hair are broken with the help of a chemical formula and then again neutralisers are applied to restructure the bonds. By doing this, the existing bonds that exist in curly hair are broken and once the hair is straightened, new bonds are made to rearrange the physical structure of your hair. This is a more permanent method than keratin or smoothening. However, if you love your curls, here are some tips to manage very curly, dry hair.

Hair smoothening

This process is similar to keratin but instead of keratin a different cream is used. It is best-suited for people who have wavy hair or even straight hair which is frizzy. It will smoothen out the frizz and make the hair more manageable and straight but not make it look too unnatural. People with very curly hair may not like the results as it won’t stay for too long. But if you wish to have natural-looking, straight hair which does not look artificially straightened, opt for this. The results won’t last too long unless you have very light waves or straight hair but will save you from having bad hair days. Here are some more tips to manage frizzy hair.

Anker advises to opt for either rebonding or smoothening as the re-growth in rebonding is completely natural and in case of smoothening, while it won’t make hair extremely straight, it looks more natural and does not damage hair as much.

Source: newsr

Importance of keratin treatment for hair revealed

Human hair is said to be as strong as the horn of a rhino, as both are made of the same protein, keratin.

Keratin is now being used not just to straighten the hair, but also fortify them.

Rod Anker, Creative Director of Monsoon Salon and Spa said that keratin does not make the hair straight, even though it may appear straight for some time but the objective of the treatment is to reduce frizz, curl and help the hair become more manageable.

He added that it washes out after sometime, therefore 3-5 months is typically the length of the time that it lasts.

During the treatment, hair is shampooed and blow dried, after which the solution is applied with a brush and combed through the hair, and allowed to absorb for about 20 minutes.

Hair is then blow dried once more and flat ironed and the oils of the treatment will set into the hair within a few hours – so static strands are normal at this time.

Anker also advised that the hair must be kept straight for 72 hours, without using any accessories, as it may disturb the process.

Source: Healcon