SUPPLEMENTS FOR STRONG, HEALTHY HAIR

• A multivitamin provides trace minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, and biotin that impact your hair.

• Biotin (vitamin B7) has been proven to improve hair health, including shine, volume, and scalp coverage, in women who experience thinning hair.

• Supplementing with iron, vitamin D, folate, vitamin B12, and selenium may lessen premature greying.

• Since the hair shaft is made almost exclusively of protein, protein intake is integral for healthy hair.

• One recent study found those with female pattern hair loss given an omega-3 and omega-6 supplement saw an increase in hair diameter and hair density and reduction in hair loss compared to those in the control group.

Healthy hair from the inside out

The human scalp has approximately 100,000 hair follicles, 90 percent of which are in the anagen phase. At this stage, essential elements such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals are crucial to effectively producing healthy hair. You may choose to supplement (see sidebar), but the necessary micronutrients for healthy hair can also be found in a healthy diet. For instance, the combination of essential omega-3 fatty acids, protein, vitamin B12, and iron in fish prevents scalp dryness and dull hair. Dark green veggies include high levels of vitamins A and C, acting as a natural conditioner. Shellfish, spinach, and red meats are rich in iron, which can help you bypass premature greying.

Keeping it natural—on the daily

Many everyday ingredients that may already be in your cupboard can be used to hydrate, strengthen, style, and care for your hair.

• Coconut oil strengthens hair, prevents dryness, and promotes hair growth.

• Jojoba helps moisturize hair, maintain pH, and reduce hair loss.

• Aloe vera can be used to treat hair loss and encourage hair growth.

• Olive oil softens and moisturizes hair.

• Hibiscus contains calcium, phosphorus, iron, vitamin B1, vitamin C, riboflavin, and niacin, which trigger thicker hair growth and combat premature greying.

• Fenugreek conditions hair and has a high protein content, which may encourage hair growth.

• Honey has moisturizing properties.

Whether you’re looking for a dramatic change, or to add a little more natural to your hair care routine, natural hair care is at your fingertips.

Ancient Origins

The first time in known history that natural hair dye was used was by the ancient Egyptians. They used henna plant pigments for hair darkening and colour reinforcement.