Holiday Haircare; Hair expert reveals ritual to avoid while on your vacay
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“Going on a dream holiday is something we look forward to the entire year. At our salon, many clients visit us before their getaway to ensure their hair looks and feels healthy for their trip.
“However, a dream could become a nightmare when suddenly, clumps of hair fall out during or after those weeks away.
“This recently happened to one unlucky holidaymaker while she was on holiday in Bali.
“But how can you avoid this also becoming a reality for you?
Before you go – Check if your destination has hard water
“Hard water is the culprit of holiday hair loss and…
“Those visiting countries such as the USA, Australia and Canada, as well as parts of the UK and Indonesia, should be extra cautious. These areas are known to host hard water.
“This means that water has a high percentage of calcium, magnesium and potentially other dissolved metals.
“The hard water can leave a mineral residue on the hair and scalp, blocking moisture absorption and decreasing the strength of your hair.
“It is important to note that the buildup of minerals can leave the hair dry, brittle and lifeless due to the hair being starved of essential oils and hydration, often leaving people with clumps of hair falling out.
“Hard water can also lift the cuticle layer of the hair, which compromises its protective outer barrier. This erosion reduces the hair’s structural integrity and elasticity over time, leaving the hair increasingly fragile and prone to tangling, frizz, breakage and excessive shedding.
“The mineral deposits can also clog hair follicles and pores on the scalp, resulting in inflammation, irritation, dandruff flakes and itchiness.
While you’re there – Prevent hair damage from hard water
“Ensure you wash your hair with clarifying shampoos to remove mineral and other hair product buildup. If you are unable to access this, choose sulphate-free shampoo to reduce the damage.
“For the most effective way to wash your hair, follow these steps:
Step 1: Gently rinse your hair, then apply a protective oil designed for your hair type to your hair and scalp and leave for 30 minutes before washing. The oil will prevent minerals from sticking, and provide moisturising and softening benefits.
Step 2: After 30 minutes, gently rinse the oil and massage the clarifying shampoo thoroughly into the scalp and hair, to ensure that any leftover residue is lifted.
Step 3: Rinse and apply your conditioner, avoiding the scalp and the upper half of the hair strands.
Step 4: Use purified water as the last rinsing agent in your shower abroad. This is free of harsh substances and much more delicate on your hair and scalp. You can use filter water bottles to purify your water, or take a travel shower filter.
When you get home – Repair hair damage and tackle hair loss
“Once you are back from your holiday, ensure to install a water-softening shower head. These are relatively cost-effective and are filled with carbon to remove the minerals before the water touches the hair.
“Hair loss can drastically impact your self-esteem, but there are several things you can do to help, including practising a healthy lifestyle. This includes paying extra attention to a healthy diet, a balanced sleep routine and gentle hair care.
“If lifestyle changes don’t help with hair loss, consult a medical professional who may do blood tests, a scalp biopsy or light microscopy to determine the root cause of the hair loss. They will also let you know if there are any underlying medical issues or deficiencies.
“For a short-term fix to mask thinning hair, hair extensions are a great way to get thick and healthy hair quickly.
“Tape-in hair extensions are a more permanent solution placed using an easily removable, non-damaging adhesive to ensure no additional hair loss. These are an ideal option as they are gentle on the scalp and allow the natural hair to grow.
“For a temporary boost, clip-in extensions are ideal, as they can be worn and taken out whenever convenient.”
