I got my hair done the other day. I have long hair so “done” means she washed it and blow-dried it straight. It lasts for days when she does it. I don’t have the patience to do that, so I let my waves flow between appointments.
She said to me “you have so much hair. It isn’t just long, you have a head full of hair. What are you doing?” We could both see a lot of new growth, too.
Well, I prioritize protein, I don’t do a lot of things that could damage my hair, and I’m selective about what I put ON my hair. Here’s what I do to keep my hair healthy.
I believe in a holistic approach that focuses on nutrition first (I say that a lot, don’t i?) lifestyle choices, and effective haircare products are the best ways I have found to have thick healthy hair. By focusing on these things, I am creating a nurturing environment for optimal hair growth and a healthy scalp. It is not only what you ARE doing, but it is what we need to STOP doing.
Nutrition for Healthy Hair
Nourishing your body from the inside out is vital for maintaining hair health. Here are some key dietary considerations:
- Protein: Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a type of protein. Making sure you are eating optimal protein from sources like meats, fish, eggs, dairy supports hair structure and encourages growth. My educated opinion is that red meat is the healthiest meat because it provides all the essential nutrients we need, specifically a full complement of amino acids in bioavailable form. Plant proteins may have lower bioavailability. As we age, we may lose some of our ability to absorb nutrients, so I don’t take chances. I choose what I know works best, which is ruminant red meat. My hair and nails are a testament to its benefits.
- Healthy Fats: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish, krill oil, beef and eggs, nourish the scalp and help keep hair shiny. Healthy fats can also reduce inflammation, and inflammation may contribute to hair loss.
- Vitamins and Minerals:
- Biotin: This B-vitamin is often linked to hair growth, supporting keratin production. You’ll find biotin in eggs. If you choose to supplement, do not exceed recommended dosages.
- Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D may be associated with hair loss. Ensure adequate sunlight exposure or consider supplementation, especially in the winter. I like this supplement . I am not an affiliate, I’ve just seen it work well in raising low vitamin D. Check with your doctor first.
- Iron: Essential for delivering oxygen to hair follicles, iron can be found in red meat. Unless working with a healthcare provider, don’t randomly add iron supplements. I always recommend diet over supplements when at all possible, and fixing low iron isn’t a “pop a supplement” kind of thing. Talk to your doctor if you need to go that route.
- Zinc: Important for tissue growth and repair, zinc is present in beef, lamb, eggs, oysters, pork and other fish.
- Hyaluronic Acid: While commonly known for its skin benefits, hyaluronic acid also plays a role in hair health. It helps retain moisture, which can keep the scalp hydrated and promote a healthy environment for hair follicles. Consider incorporating hyaluronic acid into your skincare routine, and look for dietary sources like bone broth and organ meats.
Lifestyle Tips for Healthy Hair
In addition to nutrition, adopting certain lifestyle habits can enhance the health of your hair.
- Satin Pillowcase: Sleeping on a satin pillowcase reduces friction, preventing hair breakage and frizz while helping to retain moisture.
- Minimize Heat Styling: Excessive heat can damage hair, leading to dryness and breakage. Limit using flat irons and blow dryers when possible. Not saying to swear them off forever, but reducing the usage can go a long way to protecting hair.
- Limit Chemical Treatments: Frequent coloring or chemical treatments can weaken hair. I stopped doing any coloring or toning treatments years ago, but I slowly cut down so it wasn’t all cold turkey.
- Protect from Environmental Stressors: Chlorinated pools, and harsh weather can contribute to hair damage. Use a swim cap when swimming and wear a hat in extreme weather.
Supplements for Enhanced Hair Health
In addition to a balanced diet, certain supplements may further support hair health:
- Collagen Peptides: Known for promoting skin elasticity, collagen can also strengthen hair and support its structure. If you are eating optimal protein from animal products you are likely getting enough collagen, but I’m all for supplementing here if you need extra. If you choose to use collage, be sure to add in Vitamin C.
- Vitamin C – as it works synergistically with collagen
- Hair Growth Formulas: Look for supplements that combine vitamins, minerals, and botanicals specifically designed for hair support, such as biotin, zinc, C, hyaluronic acid and saw palmetto. I do not use one since my diet and haircare products are enough for me, so cannot recommend one. If you do find one you like, let me know so I can spread the word. Thank you.
Supporting Your Hair Journey with products
I have only used Deserticola haircare products, which I introduced into my routine with Riman’s healthy haircare line. I already have my protein dialed in for me, and I get adequate healthy fats, and my nutrition is strong, and my hair was pretty nice. But since I added in their haircare product which have 31 botanicals, my hair has gotten better. It is feels stronger, it has gotten longer and it sure looks like I have more of it. It truly complements all my other healthy habits. The pic I’ve included shows how it helped fill in hair for this person who was experiencing thinning hair. As always, individual results may vary.
The shampoo helps reduces shedding and promotes resilience with nettle and centella asiatica (also known as Tiger Grass) extracts, known for their strengthening and anti-inflammatory properties.
Following the shampoo, the Water Treatment conditioner hydrates deeply with provitamin B5
and lecithin, adding softness and shine but it does not weigh my hair down. This feels warm on my scalp.
To finish off your haircare routine, Deserticola’s Hair Oil Serum seals in moisture and protects each strand with lightweight oils like camellia and argan, ensuring your hair remains sleek and frizz-free.
To wrap it up
So, that’s what I do. I eat a diet that optimizes protein first, and only add in supplements when needed. I do not dye my hair and rarely heat style it. By focusing on nutrition, doing all the lifestyle habits, and using Deserticola’s haircare products, I’ve noticed my hair feels thicker and healthier. This holistic approach has created the right environment for maintaining my hair’s health.
Let me know how you’re doing, or if you have questions. I make it a point to reply to all of my messages.
If you want to have a 1 on 1 brainstorming session with me to figure out your protein, nutrition or talk through whatever snag you’re dealing with, schedule a call HERE. Let’s figure it out together.
Disclaimer
Any advice or information presented by Linda, whether through a meeting, newsletter, post, story, or email, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or treatment. Linda is not a doctor, and the information shared does not replace professional medical guidance. Always consult with your primary care physician before adding supplements, diets, or regimens to your routine. Linda is not making claims of any kind. Your results may vary.
There may be affiliate links in this article.
