My hair is so dry!”  That’s the middle of winter cry for so many of us.

What causes dry hair anyway?  In healthy hair the outside layer (or cuticle) of the hair shaft lays flat.  But in dry hair the cells aren’t lined up straight and flat.  They get chipped away and this exposes the inside cells to the outside elements and moisture begins to be lost.  Make sense?  The bottom line is we get those flyaways and the “light” that is normally reflected off the hair isn’t reflected anymore.  It becomes dull AND flyaway-looking. 

There are several changes you can make, from using both a moisturizing shampoo and a separate conditioner to having your hair trimmed regularly and drinking plenty of water.  

A big must for this time of year is using a deep conditioner once a week. This helps to fill the hair shaft back up with moisture and it helps to coat the hair strand and lay that cuticle down flat.  Which means much shinier hair!

If you are trying to be frugal or want to make sure that you know what ingredients are going on your scalp and hair then here’s a great deep conditioning treatment.  

6 drops of lavender or sandalwood essential oil

6 oz. warm sesame or soy oil

Apply the mixture to your scalp with a cotton ball and wrap your hair in a warm towel.  Relax for 15 minutes and then shampoo. 

Just a few extra steps in the winter will make all the difference in the how your hair looks, feels and behaves!