Hotel Bliss Guest Blog

Natural Beauty: Hair Series - Hair pampering

As I stated in my last blog – taking accutane wreaked havoc on my hair. For awhile, I didn’t think I’d ever get a healthy looking mane again. But with patience, gentle care, and many many trips to the grocery store produce department, I’m happy to say it’s looking pretty darn good these days. I’ll share other tricks that helped along the way, but along with the right tools, what I feel really jump started my hair to health were some great hair masks.

Yes, that’s right. Just like a nice facial mask can work wonders on your skin, the right ingredients can bring life back to your hair. The good news is that it can be cheap too! Below are some of the recipes I really like – starting with my absolute favorite. But don’t be afraid to mix up the ingredients to find the combo that works best for you. Try them out once or twice a week and see the difference! (Oh, and don’t forget, organic products whenever possible!)

Moisturification

• 1 over ripe banana
• ½ ripe avocado
• 1 tbsp honey

I attribute most of the rehydration of my hair to this delicious concoction. Bananas contain amino acids, potassium, and vitamins A, B, C and E. All this gives you softening properties, increased elasticity and split end prevention. And while I don’t much care for the taste of avocado , this fruit is a beauty staple for me. Full of hydrating fatty acids, it’s great for all kinds of things! Skin, hair, puffy eyes, you name it! Combine with honey, which is jam packed with humectants, and you’ve got one luxurious hair mask.

Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth. (Any chunks make rinsing more difficult). Place a towel around your shoulders, or wear an old t-shirt … This one can get a bit messy… Comb your hair and section into six pieces. Starting with the back of your head at the neck, use your fingers to gently pull the mixture through your hair. Begin at the scalp and pull through the ends of your hair for each section. Once all hair is covered, use a plastic bag, or plastic wrap to cover your hair. Leave on as long as you like, but for at least 30 minutes. Rinse and shampoo. Conditioner is only needed if you need help with the detangling. My fine hair tangles easily, so this is usually a must for me, otherwise the mask should provide all the moisturizing you need. If after shampooing you find you still have any mask left in your hair, you can shampoo a second time, or if you have the time to wait until your hair dries, using your natural bristle brush should pull it right out.

Shinesation

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tbps olive oil or almond oil
• ½ cup cool water

Egg yolks are an excellent source of protein and good cholesterol – but that doesn’t mean you will only benefit if you eat them! Egg yolk is great to use on brittle hair, and it adds shine like nobody’s business. Olive oil and almond oil are great for sealing split ends and helping keep moisture in your hair. I prefer almond oil over olive, but it tends to be pricier.

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat well. (The water helps with smoothing the mixture into your hair). Apply to wet, clean hair and leave for 20-30 minutes. Rinse well – but be warned – use warm water, but not hot. You may end up with scramble eggs!

Repairifying

• 1 egg
• ¼ peeled cucumber
• 1 tbsp olive or almond oil

A variation of the recipe above, the added cucumber brings vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to the mix. In particular the caffeic acid in the cucumbers protect hair from damaging UV rays. This one’s also great if you have chlorine damaged hair!

Blend oil and cucumber in blender, then add egg. Pull through wet, clean hair. Let sit for 20 – 30 minutes, rinse. Just as above, careful not to rinse with hot water so you don’t cook your head!