The Best Hair Masks for Nourishing and Hydrating Summer-Dried Strands

Summer’s sunshine and warm breezes might be delightful for our spirits, but they can wreak havoc on our hair. Sun exposure, chlorine, and saltwater can leave hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Fear not, fellow hair enthusiasts! Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a treasure trove of Ayurvedic hair masks for healthy, nourished hair.

Understanding Hair Health in Ayurveda

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced internal state (dosha) for optimal health, including hair health. Healthy hair growth is associated with a balanced Kapha dosha, characterized by water and earth elements. Summer, however, can aggravate Pitta dosha (fire and water), leading to dryness and hair loss.

Ayurvedic Hair Masks for Dry Hair and Growth

Here’s where the magic of Ayurvedic hair masks for growth comes in! These potent concoctions, made with natural ingredients, nourish your scalp and hair, promoting healthy growth and combating dryness:

• Luscious Locks with Coconut and Amla: Coconut oil is a revered hair conditioner in Ayurveda, rich in medium-chain triglycerides that deeply penetrate the hair shaft, promoting moisture retention. Combine it with Amla (Indian Gooseberry), a rich source of Vitamin C known to stimulate hair growth. Massage a mixture of equal parts coconut oil and Amla powder into your scalp and hair, leave it on for 30 minutes, and rinse with a gentle shampoo. [1] [2]
• Honey for Strength and Shine: Honey, a natural humectant, draws moisture into the hair and adds shine. It also possesses antimicrobial properties. Mix two tablespoons of raw honey with one tablespoon of yoghurt (known for its cooling properties in Ayurveda) and a dash of lemon juice (for added Vitamin C). Apply the mask to your hair, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse with lukewarm water [3].
• Nourishing Power of Bhringraj and Neem: Bhringraj, also known as False Daisy, is a popular Ayurvedic herb known for its hair growth-promoting properties. With its antibacterial and antifungal properties, Neem helps maintain a healthy scalp environment. Combine one tablespoon of Bhringraj powder with a tablespoon of Neem powder, mix with coconut milk or yoghurt to create a paste, and apply it to your scalp and hair. Leave this hair growth hair mask on for 45 minutes before rinsing thoroughly. [4]

Homemade vs. Pre-Made Hair Masks

Ayurvedic hair masks are traditionally made with readily available ingredients found in your kitchen. However, commercially available Ayurvedic hair masks offer a convenient option, often containing a blend of these beneficial herbs and oils. Look for masks with natural ingredients and avoid those with harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances as they are the best hair mask for hair growth and thickness.

Ayurvedic Practices for Hair Growth [5]

• Scalp Massage (Abhyanga): Regular scalp massage with Ayurvedic oils like coconut or Bhringraj oil improves blood circulation and promotes hair growth.
• Herbal Hair Rinses: Rinsing your hair with a decoction of Amla, hibiscus leaves, or fenugreek seeds after shampooing can add shine and strengthen hair [6].

While hair masks offer a potent boost, remember that healthy hair starts from within. Ensure a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals, prioritize good sleep and manage stress – all crucial factors for optimal hair health in Ayurveda.

References:

1. Korean Society for Biotechnology and Bioengineering Journal 2018; 33(4): 299-305
2. Health Effects of Coconut Oil—A Narrative Review of Current Evidence
3. Survey of use of herbal and home remedies for hair and scalp among women in North West Saudi Arabia
4. Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Shampoo to Promote Hair Growth and Provide Antidandruff Action
5. AYURVEDA ABHYANGA (MASSAGE) PROCEDURE – A REVIEW
6. A Multimodal Hair-Loss Treatment Strategy Using a New Topical Phytoactive Formulation: A Report of Five Cases