Be Careful With That Eyeliner

Applying pencil eyeliner to the inner eyelid increases the risk that particles will get into the eye and cause vision problems, a new study warns.

Volunteers first applied glitter eyeliner outside the lash line and then on the inner lid closer to the eye. Within five minutes, 15 percent to 30 percent more eyeliner particles moved into the eye's tear film -- the thin coating protecting the eye -- when eyeliner was applied to the inner eyelid, compared to outside the lash line.

Particles also moved more quickly into the eye itself when eyeliner was applied inside the lash line, according to study leader Alison Ng, of the Center for Contact Lens Research at the University of Waterloo in Canada.

Eyeliner particles in the tear film may cause discomfort for people with sensitive or dry eyes, and can also adhere to contact lenses and accumulate if used for more than one day, Ng explained. That can lead to complications such as irritation and redness, the presence of harmful bacteria, and even eye infections or blurred vision.

The study was published recently in the journal Eye and Contact Lens Science and Clinical Practice.

Previous research has also shown that old eye makeup can harbor bacteria, Ng noted.

"If you thoroughly sharpen your pencil eyeliner before each application and get rid of the stuff that's stuck to the end, you'll have a fresh tip which can help prevent infection," Ng said in a university news release.

"With twist-up eyeliner, cut some off the end before each use," Ng added. "And always make sure to fully remove eye makeup before bed."

12 Homemade Dandruff Treatments & Shampoos

Before reading on about treating your dandruff at home, make sure you actually have dandruff. Chances are a good amount of the people visiting this page will actually have dry scalp, which differs from dandruff in symptoms and treatment. If you know you have dandruff, than read on. Below are 12 home remedies to help you kick the crusties.

1. Pour, Rinse, and Barely Repeat With Vinegar

Rinsing your hair with vinegar (specifically Apple Cider Vinegar or white vinegar) may sound like a dreadful idea, but it can be quite an effective way to treat dandruff because it actually addresses the root of the problem (pun very much intended.)Put simply, dandruff is the result of skins cells maturing and dying too fast, building up, and causing irritation. Vinegar will get rid of the unwanted skin that would flake off into dandruff, and it won’t clog up your pores or cause more. An overgrowth of fungus can also cause dandruff, and vinegar acts like a fungicide.  Using it is straightforward, simple, and is probably easier on your hair than some shampoos out there. Just don’t wash with it before a business meeting in a stuffy room-the biggest downfall is that your hair will smell like vinegar until you shower again (but it does go away.)
You will need…
-1/2 cup warm water
-1/2 cup ACV or white vinegar
-A cup
Directions
Mix together the warm water and vinegar in a cup. The total amount may be varied to be more or less depending on how much hair you have. Pour the mixture over your hair, scrub it around gently for several minutes, and then rinse it thoroughly with water (only water!) Wait about 8-12 hours before taking a normal shower. Repeat once every week or two weeks, depending on how often you feel you need it.

2. Break It Up With Baking Soda

Baking soda is just an all-around useful thing to have in the house. It plays a large part in a lot of natural home remedies, and for good reason-it usually works! It helps to remove dandruff for a number of reasons. First, it mildly exfoliates, which gets rid of the excess dead skin. It’s also kills off acts as a fungicide, and a common fungus that occurs on everyone’s scalp can cause dandruff if it becomes overly abundant. In addition, its tiny particles can be useful in actually removing those loose flakes stuck in your hair-instead of just breaking the pieces of skin up into smaller pieces.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of baking soda
-1 cup of water
-A few drops of rosemary oil (optional)
Directions
Mix one tablespoon of baking soda to every one cup of warm water. If you’re using an old (clean) shampoo or soap bottle, shake up the mixture and apply generously. Otherwise, stir it before you use it. Do this in place of shampoo, daily if possible. Your hair may feel quite dry in the beginning, but its natural oils will restore themselves soon, and they will be much more balanced than when using some commercial shampoo. If you feel you absolutely must use shampoo (and really try the baking soda alone first if you can) you can add a teaspoon of baking to a handful of shampoo and use that instead. The rosemary oil is optional, but some people find rosemary helps dandruff and think it has a pleasant scent.

3. Have Fun With Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a plant that is used commonly as a spice, particularly in Indian cuisine; however it serves medicinal purposes as well. Fenugreek seeds have a composition that is rich in protein and amino acids, encouraging healthy hair/hair growth and warding off those wicked flakes in the process. A little bonus-its high concentration of lecithin (a natural emollient) can help make hair stronger overall, and many people find that it leaves their hair silky smooth and soft.
You will need…
-2 tablespoons of Fenugreek seeds (check a health food store if they aren’t at your grocery store)
-A bowl of water
-Something to grind the seeds with
Directions
Soak the seeds in 1-2 cups of water overnight. The next morning, grind them into a fine paste and apply to your scalp. Leave it applied for 30-45 minutes, then wash with mild shampoo or water.

4. Treat Your Scalp To Neem Leaves

Neem leaves (also an Indian herb) make a great all-natural home remedy for your dandruff. Their properties not only relieve itching, they act as an antifungal as well, inhibiting the over-growth of dandruff causing fungus. Be aware that some people find its smell to be overwhelming.
You will need…
-At least 2 handfuls of neem leaves
-4-5 cups of hot water
Directions
Add two handfuls of neem leaves to 4 or 5 cups of hot water. Let it stand overnight. The next morning strain the liquid and use it to rinse your hair. You can also try making a paste out of leaves, applying it to your scalp, and letting it sit for about an hour before washing it off with water.

5. Utilize Listerine

Listerine was actually created in 1879 by a doctor in Missouri and used as a powerful surgical antiseptic for dentists. When the good doctor sold it to a pharmaceutical company, it uses broadened and it became the first over-the-counter mouth wash ever sold in the United States. In the 1930’s and ‘40s, one its original purposes was also to fight dandruff. It may seem random, but consider that Listerine fights fungus, and one of the most common cause of dandruff is an overabundance of…you guessed it, fungus.
You will need…
-Water
-Listerine Mouthwash (preferably not green or blue as they might stain your hair)
-Spray bottle (optional)
Directions…
Mix 2 parts water with 1 part Listerine. After you shampoo, spray or pour the solution onto your scalp, massage in well, and let sit for 30 minutes before rinsing with water.

6. Get Some Sun

It’s not known exactly why, but there have been links between dandruff and exposure to sunlight. There have been many cases in which the severity of dandruff lessened when the afflicted person spent more time in the sun. It’s possible that instead of dry weather in the winter causing dandruff, it’s really the lack of sunlight. Maybe the light helps dry up some of the excess oil, or maybe getting a little time outside in the sun makes for a happier healthier human overall. Whatever the exact reason is, it’s something to try, and it’s probably one of the most straightforward home remedies you can try.
Directions
Spend at least 10-15 minutes out in the sunlight every day that you can. Make sure to limit your time though-too much sun and it’s UV rays can be harmful to your skin, hair, and health.

7. Take Some Aspirin

Aspirin can help with more than just headaches-it’s also an easy at-home remedy for dandruff. Pure Aspirin uses a large percentage of Salicylic Acid, which is an active ingredient in many commercial anti-dandruff shampoos. Salicylic Acid has fungicidal and anti-microbial properties to fight the extra flakes caused by fungus, while the Aspirin helps with the inflamed skin that often goes hand-in-hand with severe cases of dandruff.
You will need…
-2 white Aspirin tablets
-Shampoo
Directions…
Crush up the Aspirin until it becomes a fine powder. Add it to your regular shampoo before use, making sure to leave it in your hair for about 2 minutes before rinsing completely.

8. Eat Healthy

You knew it would be on here, somewhere. Eating healthy helps every aspect of your well-being. These days we’re learning more and more that diet is truly vital to our health, so it comes as no surprise that it would have some impact on skin conditions, including dandruff. Of course, food that is extremely fatty and/or unhealthy should be avoided-but that’s common knowledge whether you follow it or not. What you may not know it what to eat to help your scalp and why, so check out the list below of some foods you should aim to eat that may help you get rid of those pesky flakes-and keep them from coming back.
Veggies: Green leafy vegetables in particular impact how our skin behaves. It encourages healthy hair, skin, and nail growth, so shoot for stuff like broccoli, kale, and lettuce (NOT iceberg) to add to your diet.
Fish Oils: Fish oil can make a difference in the overall make-up of your skin. Taking fish oil supplements will not cure your dandruff, but it can help lessen its severity and/or prevent it.
Lean Proteins: To minimize dandruff, try eating more lean proteins. They help to build hair and skin and keep it coming in healthy. Aim for fish and non-meat proteins, such as eggs, nuts, and beans.

9. Take Advantage Of Lemons

Lemons have a tough reputation, but they might be able to shake it-if they help you shake the flakes first. The acidity in pure freshly squeezed lemon juice contains acids that can help break down the fungus that is often the cause of dandruff outbreaks. It’s also free from harsh chemicals and other unnatural ingredients that often do more harm than good to our hair and scalp-plus it leaves you smelling clean and fresh. So remember, the next time life gives you dandruff, give it lemons.
You will need…
-2 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice, divided
-1 cup of water
Directions
Massage 2 tablespoons of lemon juice into your scalp and let it sit for a minute. Mix 1 teaspoon of lemon juice into 1 cup of water and rinse your hair with it. Repeat daily until no longer needed.

10. Use Tea Tree Oil

While excess oil can be a root cause of dandruff, some oils can still be helpful in keeping it under control. Tea tree oil has been used medicinally for centuries. Aboriginals in Australia would pick the leaves of the tea tree plant and break them (much like we do with aloe) before using them as a topical treatment for burns, cuts, bites, and so on. The oil extracted from those leaves have fungicidal properties and it is overall soothing to the skin-especially when it is sore or itchy. Be aware that tea tree oil, while safe for topical use, should NOT be ingested under ANY circumstance.
You will need…
-1 tablespoon of tea tree oil
-1 cup of warm water
-A squirt bottle
Directions
Pour 1 tablespoon of tea tree oil into 1 cup of warm water in a squirt bottle. Shake well. After shampooing, spray the mixture all over your scalp, massage, and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Pat the excess moisture out, but don’t wash it out.

11. Enjoy Aloe

Aloe Vera gel is synonymous with “ahhhhh…relief” in many people’s minds. While it may be used more commonly to help minor burns, it can also help give you relief from dandruff. It works because its constituents inhibit the process of skin cell proliferation. In other words, the stuff that makes it up slows down how fast your cells grow, and since dandruff often is caused by cells growing and dying too rapidly, the aloe can help restore them to normalcy.
You will need…
-1 bottle of Aloe Vera gel
Directions
Apply Aloe Vera gel to the scalp 15 minutes prior to washing your hair. After 15 minutes, shampoo and wash it as normal.

12. Salt It

Salt is something most of us have lying around, something we use every day. But did you know that it can also help get rid of dandruff? It’s slightly abrasive crystals will work as a natural exfoliator, getting off the extra oil and dead skin flakes. It is effective because it clears a path, if you will, for the shampoo which can sink in and work to its fullest potential. While rubbing salt on your scalp may not sound like spa treatment, it can actually feel quite pleasant, especially if your skin is itchy.
You will need…
-3 tablespoons of salt (Epsom salt works well if you happen to have it, but regular table salt is fine too.
Directions
Gently massage 3 tablespoons of salt into your dry or slightly dampened scalp for 2-3 minutes. Shampoo immediately afterwards.

Tips

If you’re not sure how you feel about washing your hair with some of the natural stuff used to treat dandruff, here are some tips that can still help you get rid of it at home.

1. Switch Up Shampoos

You find that one shampoo…that one anti-dandruff shampoo that finally works. Deep down, you know it’s the shampoo for you. Then, without any warning, it just…quits on you. The dandruff starts coming back, and it’s time to realize that you have to move on if you want to shake the flake. This isn’t uncommon-people often build up a tolerance to a shampoo and its active ingredient. If yours stops working abruptly this may be the case, so switch as soon as you can. To keep this from happening, switch up what you’re using every month or so. Find 3 different kinds of anti-dandruff shampoo, each with a different formulation, and rotate them to prevent them from becoming ineffective.

2. Obey The Law Of L.R.R.

Lather, rinse, repeat. We see it stamped on the back of shampoo bottles, but really, how many of us lather twice? I know most of the times that I have, it’s usually because I forgot I had already shampooed (embarrassing, I know.) That direction is there for a reason though-it allows the shampoo to work at its best and really do what it is supposed to do. Next time you’re in the shower, do an initial lathering before rinsing it off to get rid of most of the flakes and oil buildup. To really fight the dandruff, lather a second time and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then the shampoo can penetrate the skin cells fully and really go to work.

3. Shampoo More

Many people are of the belief that dandruff is caused by dry skin, and try to make up for this by shampooing less so as to not strip the skin of its natural oils. They may also use special shampoo for dandruff when they really have dry scalp, which will just dry it out even more. One of the biggest causes of dandruff is oily skin-that is why the skin flakes are often greasy, not dry. The best way to combat this is to shampoo more rather than less. Since that dandruff is a build-up or excess of rapidly maturing skin cells, scrubbing with shampoo can help get the itchy layer off naturally. It can also help ward off overgrowth of the Malassezia fungus.

Dandruff can seem like an unconquerable enemy, but there are a number of effective ways to manage it and lessen its severity- and not all of them have to involve harsh chemicals or an expensive trip to the dermatologist. The next time you get down about shaking the flake remember that a solution could be right in front of you, maybe even as close as the salt shaker on your dining room table.

How Onion Helps in Hair Growth

Many people face the problem of hair loss. Though losing 50-100 hairs per day is considered as normal, losing hair cause concern and mental stress in people. Moreover, acute hair loss can affect the appearance of a person and affects their confidence levels. There are many natural remedies which are capable of inducing proper hair growth and the most important and effective among them is Onion juice.

Natural And Safe Method
It is completely safe to use onion for preventing hair loss and promoting hair growth as onion helps in hair growth without any side effects or causing allergies. There is no need to use harsh chemicals on your hair when you have an easily available, cheap and safe method for promoting hair growth. You can use onion as a natural remedy if you have receding hair line or bald patches. You may not be able to get the same result when you opt for hair loss treatment from costly hair spas.
 

Can Onion Help In Hair Growth?
Most of the people are skeptical about the use of onion for hair growth. Most of you will be thinking can onion help in hair growth? The scientific studies on natural remedies for hair loss has proven that applying onion juice and consuming onions is helpful in controlling hair loss and other problems related to hair such as dandruff, fungal infections and yeast infections. It has been found that onion juice is also effective in preventing premature graying of hair.

How Does Onion Help In Hair Growth?
Most of the people are unaware of how onions are effective in promoting hair growth. Onions have rich sulfur content in them. Onion juices when applied on the scalp alone or in combination with other hair loss remedies can improve the blood circulation to the scalp. Sulfur also improves the production of collagen tissues which is necessary for the growth of hair. Hair grows from the hair follicles in the scalp and increased blood supply to the scalp brings better nutrients and nourishment to the follicles and promotes hair growth. The sulfur content in the juice also has anti-bacterial properties and prevents the growth of fungi and bacteria on the scalp which reduces the chances of losing hair due to these infections. Onion juice increases the strength of the hair and prevents thinning and breakage. You can achieve improved volume to your hair by regularly applying the onion juice on the scalp.

Onion to Grow Hair Faster
To achieve hair growth with the help of onion juice you need to extract the juice of the onions and apply it on the scalp thoroughly. Though, the juice has a pungent smell, the remedy is highly effective in achieving the results you need. You need to keep the juice on the scalp for at least 30 minutes. You can keep it for longer if you will be able to bear the smell of the juice. Rinse off the juice using water and mild shampoo. You will have to repeat this remedy at least thrice a week for at least two months to see the results. This is a natural remedy and it will take some time to give the expected result.

How Onion Helps in Hair Growth
 

How To Make Onion Juice For Hair Growth?
It is very easy and simple to make the onion juice for hair growth. You can use a food processor or blender, grater or a juicer to extract the juice. Peel the required number of onions according to the length of your hair and cut them into pieces. You can put them in blender or juicer and run it to get the required amount of juice. To extract the juice using grater, cut the onion into halves and grate each half, squeeze out the juices from grated onion using your hand.
Simple Methods Of Using Onion for Hair Growth
 

1. Onion Juice-Honey Mixture
You can use this remedy in two different ways. You can mix ¼ cup of onion juice with one honey tablespoon of honey and you can consume it orally every day or you can apply the mix on the scalp and massage it for 15 minutes daily to see the difference.
 

2. Concoction Of Onion Juice And Rum
If you find the smell of onions unbearable you can use this method to prevent the loss of hair and to improve the growth of hair. Finely chop one medium sized onion and soak this in a glass of rum overnight. Next day, strain the mixture to remove the onion pieces. Use the concoction to massage the scalp or use it as a hair rinse after washing the hair.
 

3. Add Onion In Your Recipes
You can include onions in regular recipes and in salads to get the benefits of using onion. This will not act as fast as applying the juice to the hair.
 

4. Onion Juice Hair Rinse
This is another method of using onions for hair growth without getting tears and irritation to eyes. Add 4-5 chopped onion to one liter of water and boil it for about 10 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool and strain the mixture. Use the onion boiled water to rinse your hair after shampooing. If you are not bothered with the smell you need not wash the hair with water that day. You can clean your hair using water and mild shampoo next day.

Hair is part of the personality of a person. If you are worried about your excessive hair loss, you can try the above remedy. Select a method convenient to you and stick to it for at least two months. Your hair will first achieve a good sheen and slowly you will see your hair becoming stronger and thicker. To boost your hair growth, you can also massage your hair and scalp with a mixture of olive oil, coconut oil and almond oil once in a week. You can achieve better results, if you leave the oil overnight on your hair. Always eat a healthy diet to prevent hair loss and to promote the re-growth of the hair.

Top Food for Healthy Hair

Scalp Itching / Itchy Scalp - Symptom Evaluation

Itching of scalp is a common problem. It could be due to dry skin, infection, inflammation, or a psychological cause.

 

An itchy scalp is often a cause of embarrassment in a public place. However, it is not always necessary that itching is a result of bad hygiene. Some skin diseases like psoriasis can also cause itching of the scalp. Sometimes, the itching is localized only to the scalp area. In other cases, it may extend to the rest of the body. Repeated itching can result in scratches or excoriations of the skin. This could promote bacterial infection.


Treatment of itching depends on the cause. Hence, it is necessary to arrive at a diagnosis of the cause of itching at the earliest.

Various causes of an itchy scalp are:

Dry Scalp: Some people have a dry skin including that of the scalp. The dryness results in itching. The itching could get worse in the winter months or following repeated washing of the hair with harsh shampoos. Such shampoos should be avoided and moisturizing creams and lotions should be used. Regular use of hair oil can help to reduce this problem.

Infestation with Lice: Infestation with lice, small parasites which suck blood, is common in females in crowded areas. The lice spread from one person to another through close contact. The bites of the lice result in itching especially behind the ears. Repeated scratching of the scalp results in excoriation of the skin. Bacteria may grow in the skin scratches resulting in infection. The condition is diagnosed by the presence of lice and the eggs of lice called nits in the hair. Use of special medicated shampoos and lotions helps to control the condition.

Fungal Infection

Dandruff: Dandruff is a common scalp condition that appears after adolescence. It follows infection of an oily scalp by a small fungus called Malassezia furfur. The patient repeatedly scratches the scalp, which is followed by falling off of scales. It may be accompanied by temporary loss of hair. Dandruff in the presence of an excessively oily scalp with additional inflammation of the scalp is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis. In severe cases, scales may also be observed in the face area. Dandruff can be treated with shampoos containing ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione or selenium sulfide.

Cradle Cap: Cradle cap is a condition that affects newborn children of 3 months or younger. In these cases, there is crusting over the head with loss of hair. The exact cause of this condition is not known. It may be due to excess secretion of sebaceous glands due to the influence of maternal hormones. The yeast, Malassezia furfur, may also play a role in causing this condition. The condition is usually harmless and gets better after the baby is around a year old.

Ringworm Infection of the Scalp: Ringworm is a fungal infection that results in circular thick lesions. In the scalp, the area over the ringworm is accompanied by marked itching and breaking of hair. It responds to treatment with antifungal medications.

Bacterial Infection:

Bacterial Infection of the Scalp: Bacterial infection of the scalp results in itching. Besides pus formation, oozing, crusting and matting of hair is also observed. Local or oral antibiotics are used to treat the condition.

Hair Folliculitis: Inflammation of the hair follicle is called folliculitis. Folliculitis occurs because of bacterial or fungal infection. Besides causing pain, folliculitis can also result in itching.

Viral Infection

Chickenpox: Varicella zoster is a virus that causes chickenpox. Chickenpox may be associated with blisters in the scalp, which result in itching. The virus can also affect the nerves in older individuals resulting in shingles. Fluid-filled blisters are found along the nerves, with pain and itching along the nerves.

Inflammation

Contact Dermatitis: Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction of the skin to certain chemicals applied to the skin (in this case, the scalp) like shampoos, dyes etc. The itching is usually absent the first time the chemical is applied. However, subsequent applications may produce itching, oozing, crusting and scaling. The patient should avoid contact with the allergen and may require local steroid creams.

Psoriasis of the Scalp: Psoriasis is a condition where the skin is covered with thickened flat areas called plaques. The plaques are covered with silvery scales. The plaques on the scalp are usually accompanied with plaques over the rest of the body, thus helping to diagnose the condition. Psoriasis of the scalp may also be accompanied by arthritis.

Lichen Planus: Lichen planus is another inflammatory disorder that affects the skin including the scalp. It results in scarring and loss of hair over the affected part. It is treated with steroids.

Psychological Cause

Stress and anxiety can result in repeated scratching of the head, with subsequent loss of hair.

FAQs

1. Which doctor should I visit in case I suffer from itching of the scalp?

You should visit a skin specialist or a dermatologist in case you suffer from itching of the scalp.

2. How can lice infestation be treated?

Lice infestation is treated using medications that contain pyrethrins or permethrins. Recently, a medication containing ivermectin has also been approved by the FDA for the treatment of lice. The patient’s clothes and bed linen should be washed with hot water. Combs and hair brushes should be well cleaned. The furniture of the house should also be vacuumed to remove any lice around the house.

3. How can I know if I am suffering from a fungal infection of the scalp?

Your doctor will usually be able to diagnose a fungal infection of the scalp on examining the scalp. He may scrape out a few flakes and examine them under a microscope or a magnifying glass. In some cases, if the diagnosis is doubtful, he may take a biopsy of the lesion.

Simple Tips to get Perfectly Straight Hair / Straighten Hair Naturally

Those of us with straight hair yearn for curly locks and wavy kinks, although straight and silky hair is more popular.

It’s not asking for the impossible because you can step into a Hair Salon and get your hair chemically treated for permanent straightening which can last up to a year. Of course you pay for the treatment which is definitely not cheap, and your hair texture also pays due to chemicals and hot irons.

These are some methods to get the kinks and curls out of hair, at home, using ingredients from your shelves.

• Chop a bunch of celery leaves and extract juice by blending and straining through a muslin cloth. Store this in a bottle overnight. Next day apply the juice to length of hair and scalp. Comb with a broad toothed comb so that all the hair is covered and leave it on for an hour. Rinse hair well. Blow dry gently, using a circular brush with natural bristles.

• A very popular technique is to mix ½ cup of water with ½ a cup of milk and pour this into a spray bottle. Comb out the tangles before starting. Spray this milk on hair and scalp. Comb again. Leave milk on for ½ hour before washing gently with water. Comb with a broad toothed comb. Repeat this technique 2 -3 times a week. Can blow dry with and brush for a finished look.


• Another trendy tip is coconut milk treatment – extract milk from 1 coconut by first grating and then blending the tender fruit or meat of coconut. Add the juice of 1 fresh lime to this. Mix well and keep in the refrigerator. Next day a creamy layer has formed - use this on hair and scalp. Cover the head with a hot towel and keep for an hour. Wash with water and comb with a wide toothed comb. Repeat 2-3 times a week for good results. Blow drying is an option.


• Take a cup of "Fuller’s Earth" or “Multani Mitti” and mix 1 egg white and 2 spoons of rice flour to this. Add water to make a paste which should be runny enough to coat the hair but not flow at the same time. Leave for ½ hour and comb with a wide toothed comb. Repeat this 2 -3 times. Wash hair with water and a gentle shampoo after 2 hours.


Hair Straightening Side Effects

Hair straightening is a common trend nowadays. People straighten their hair to make it look more stylish and beautiful. However, it has some side effects that can damage the hair that are caused by the heat and chemicals while straightening the hair. Here are some of the side effects caused due to hair straightening:

•Dryness of hair is the most common side effect of hair straightening. The heat and chemicals that are used can damage the hair and losing the natural moisture in the hair to a great extent can make the hair look dull and frizzy.


•Allergy is another risk that is commonly associated with hair straightening. The allergy is mainly caused due to the chemicals that are used during hair straightening. Allergy sets off itching on the skin and scalp, redness of scalp, scalp rash and itching of the eye. In such cases you should consult a doctor immediately to address these side effects.

• Straightening hair can make your hair styles monotonous. In cases of permanent straightening, you can hardly change your hairstyle and it is impossible to do different hairstyles at times.


• Hair straightening can also cause hair fall. The use of poor quality chemicals and improper techniques to straighten hair can break the hair from the roots. It also makes the hair follicles become weak and leads to continuous falling of hair.


Hair Straightening for Men and Women

The methods for hair straightening are almost the same for both men and women. You can straighten your hair either by visiting a beauty salon or you can just do it by yourself at home. People usually go to salon if they want to do a permanent straightening as it has more to do with chemical products to straighten the hair and the effect lasts longer. For temporary hair straightening, people prefer to straighten their hair at home by using a hair straightener. The cost for hair straightening differs from one beauty salon to another; it also depends on the thickness, length and type of the hair.


The result of these tips may not be as finished and neat as a salon straightening, but you are saving on the expense and hair from effects of harsh chemicals.

Most Common Causes of Hair Loss

How to Get Salon-like Curls at Home

These days, no one really sticks to the type of hair they are born with. Straight, wavy or curly, you name it and you can get it.

If you love curly hair, but are not naturally blessed with those luscious curls, all you can do is take help of your beautician, right? Wrong! Instead of going for expensive and harmful treatments that involve heat and chemicals, you can now have your favorite curls at home!

Without investing in any styling equipment, you can get your favourite kind of curls to match with your look. Be it breezy waves or eccentric noodle hair, you can have it all. We have five easy ways to get the curly hair of your dreams.

Paper bag curls
To get the basic wavy curls, you need not treat them with any heat. All you have to use is a paper bag! Wash your hair, condition it and let it dry naturally. Now make thin sections of your hair and spread swipes of mousse evenly in the sections. Then take a huge sheet of paper and cut long strips of it. Wrap the sections of your hair with it in an inward direction. After carefully folding all the sections, tie all the edges in a bun. Soon the paper strips will effectively soak the wetness, drying your hair and giving you a perfect beach wave. Watch the video below to get a clear idea of how this is done.

Crimped curls
If you are a fan of Kangana's crimped up curls, all you have to do to get them is ditch the harsh crimping machine to begin with. Wet your hair and make a perfect French braid. Now allow your hair to dry and then undo the braid. Loosen your hair with some serum on your fingers. Do this right before you go to bed and get naturally crimpy hair in the morning.

Beautiful beach waves
As we know that salt water creates a gorgeous, carefree and tousled look for the hair. But you need not go to the beach every time to get that wavy look! You can do so in the comfort of your home. Just take a spray bottle and fill it with warm water, two tablespoons of salt and 1/4th cup of conditioner. Shake well and spray this mixture over clean and dry hair. Be prepared to be pleasantly surprised!

Soft rolled curls
To get the voluminous looking soft curls, wash your hair thoroughly, and comb away all the tangles while they dry. Apply a styling mousse from roots to the ends. Then divide the hair into 4-5 sections and neatly roll them in simple plastic hair rollers. Make sure that the ends of your hair are laying flat on the rollers. Once all sections of your hair are covered, put on a shower cap to secure the hair neatly. Leave it on for 6-7 hours or overnight. Then unroll the rollers one at a time. Loosen the hair with your fingers and brush gently to get soft curls.

Sleek curls
To get the neatly slicked back curls, wash your hair thoroughly and let it dry. Apply a good amount of mousse on to it. Now take a thin comb to divide your hair into many sections. Twist each section as much as you can and hold it by tying a rubber band at the end. Secure all ends with bobby pins. Now blow dry your hair. Remove the rubber bands and pins when the hair dries completely. You will be surprised at the results.

Getting the perfect curly hair in the comfort of your home is no more an impossible dream. You can have your favourite curls to match your outfit and your look for any occasion. If you have any more hair styling tips, do share with our readers in the comments section below.

5 Natural Hair Straightening Products

Beauty salons not only burn a hole in your pocket, but their frequent treatments can make your beautiful hair look dull and lifeless too. Excess exposure to their hair straightening machines and dryers can make your hair addicted to these treatments. Managing your mane without them can get difficult for you by each passing usage.

So, just stop wasting your money on these beauty salons every time you want to straighten your hair. Here are a few things from your kitchen that can straighten your hair in a much effective manner. These little tips will not only take care of your frizzy hair, but will also make it soft and shinny. So, simply walk into your kitchen and get started! 

Fruit pack
Well, we all know that fruits are good for an overall health. But, they work wonders for your hair too. You need to crush some strawberries or bananas, and add them in a mixture of milk and honey. Mix it well to form a paste like consistency. Now, apply this mixture on your hair, and wait for it to dry completely. Once you wash it off, you will discover glossy and straight hair.

 
Olive oil and eggs
It is no secret that eggs are an integral part of an ideal hair care routine. But what many people do not know is that when they are are combined with olive oil, they work like magic. For this, you need to beat two eggs and add some olive oil to it. Mix it well, apply it to your hair, and leave it on for an hour. Wash it off with shampoo, and you will definitely be pleased with its results.


Multani Mitti
Multani Mitti (fuller's earth) is not only good for your skin, but it also helps in straightening your hair. Just add one egg white and two tablespoons of rice flour to a cup full of multani mitti. Add some water to the paste to get a consistency that will stay onto your hair. Apply it and leave it for half an hour. After 30 minutes, comb your hair gently. Now apply this paste again, and run a comb through your hair. Repeat this process a couple of times. Finally, wash it off. We assure you that after this pack, your wavy hair will definitely be on their best behaviour.


Herb treatment
Well, we have heard that different herb oils are used in various hair and body spa procedures. But, using them in their raw form can work wonders for your frizzy hair. So, moisturise your hair with herbs like chamomile, rose geranium, rose, lavender, cedar wood, calendula, burdock, and sandalwood. They soften the hair cuticles and straighten your hair, and are easily available in the market. Just make a solution by boiling five teaspoons of the at least five of them in two cups of water. Let the mixture cool down, and then add a tablespoon of vinegar to it. Replace this liquid with your conditioner. Do not rinse your hair off after applying it, instead use it as a leave-in conditioner.


Oil your hair
Every grandmother would have passed on this piece of advice to their granddaughters, but sadly very few follow it religiously. So, it is time you pay heed to her advice and start oiling your hair regularly. Instead of using one type of oil, you can combine two or three of them for beautiful straight hair. Mix coconut oil, olive oil and almond oil together, and massage it on your scalp gently. Wrap a hot towel once you are through with the massage. Wash it off after 45 minutes and you will be surprised to see sleek, shiny and straight hair.

A word of caution
Though these treatments straighten your hair, their results are not as instant as a salon. For visible results, you will have to follow them regularly for at least a month. But all said and done, you can vouch for them as they are much better than the artificial salon treatments.

So, say goodbye to the expensive beauty salons and their products, and straighten your hair at the comfort of your home.

Tips to Grow Long and Healthy Hair

Here are 10 tips to help you grow out your hair:

1. Don’t wash your hair everyday.

Washing your hair everyday can strip away protective oils that help keep hair healthy. Try washing your hair only 3 to 4 times a week. It may seem oily at first, but your scalp will adjust in no time. You can also use a dry shampoo to help dry up excess oil. Wash your hair in colder water to help fight frizz and keep your hair shaft smooth and healthy.

2. Dry your hair with care.

When you get out of the shower, gently squeeze excess water from your hair and pat dry with a soft towel. Don’t rub or massage wet hair with a towel. Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to work through tangles. Try to let your hair air dry as much as possible!

3. Style your hair gently.

If you do blow dry your hair, use a cooler setting. Be sure to always use a thermal protectant on your hair before styling with heat!

4. Avoid chemicals.

Commercial shampoos, conditioners, and styling products contain a lot of chemicals that make hair look good in the short term, but dry it out and damage it in the long term. Choosing healthier products will prevent your hair from getting dull and dry while its growing out. Use shampoo that doesn’t contain sulfates. Also avoid conditioning products that contain silicone.

5. Eat well.

You are what you eat! Eating a healthy diet will help hair grow faster, thicker and glossier. Be sure to get plenty of vitamin B, found in fruits, veggies and nuts to keep hair thick and strong. Protein is the building block for your hair so eat plenty of meat, fish, legumes and leafy greens. Omega-3s like salmon, olive oil, nuts and avocados can help keep hair glossy and smooth.

6. Drink plenty of water.

Hydrating your body can help hydrate your hair. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day and avoid drinks that can dehydrate you.

7. Take vitamins.

Biotin (5000 mcg a day) promotes healthy skin, hair and nail growth. Prenatal vitamins are also packed full of folic acid and other nutrients to promote healthy hair and skin.

8. Let your hair down.

Avoid hairstyles that are tight and can cause breakage, like tight ponytails or buns.

9. Massage your scalp.

Give yourself a scalp massage 2-3 times a week to for 10 minutes to increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth.

10. Trim split ends.

It is important to trim your hair when you are growing it out, but only trim when necessary. It is okay to skip your 6 week trim if your ends are strong and healthy!

Do you have any tips for growing your hair out?

We would love to hear them!

8 Foods to Make Hair Grow Faster

Whether you’re in the midst of trying to recover your strands from a misguided cut or simply want longer locks, you may have a hard time patiently waiting for your hair to grow. (We’ve been there.)

Luckily, unlike the watched pot that never boils, concentrating on your hair growth can yield actual results, particularly when it comes to strategic eating.

Here are eight foods that help lengthen your mane, recommended by Harvard and Yale Medical School-trained nutritionist Jayson Calton, PhD, and licensed nutritionist and fitness chef Mira Calton, CN.

1. Salmon:

This fish is loaded with the strong hair supporters like Vitamin D and protein, but it also contains omega-3 fatty acids that promote hair growth by keeping your scalp healthy.

2. Yellow Peppers:

Yellow bell peppers have nearly five and a half times more vitamin C than oranges (341 milligrams, as opposed to 63). This is good news for your locks since vitamin C is an antioxidant that strengthens the hair shaft and hair follicles, as well as prevents breakage.

3. Oysters:

Zinc deficiency has been noted to cause hair loss and poor scalp conditions and oysters are loaded with zinc — just three ounces contain 493 percent of your daily value. But not just any oysters will do: Steer clear of the ones caught in the Gulf of Mexico, which may contain unusually high levels of Cadmium due to the 2010 BP oil spill.

4. Eggs:

Eggs are an excellent source of those aforementioned omega-3s, and they are also contain biotin (which many people trying to grow their hair take in supplement form). But, just so you’re aware, it’s not the egg white that will make your hair long and beautiful, it’s the yolk. Eating too many egg whites can actually block the absorption of biotin into the body, causing a depletion of this micronutrient.

5. Sunflower Seeds:

Just a few little seeds can supply you with an abundance of vitamin E, which will enhance blood flow to the scalp and promote faster hair growth.

6. Sweet Potatoes:

These are loaded with beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A that not only promotes a healthy scalp but promotes hair growth. But choose foods loaded with beta carotene over supplementing with high doses — like over 2500 milligrams — of vitamin A from retinol since it can be toxic at very high levels.

7. Avocados:

Due to their high concentration of essential fatty acids naturally found in skin cells (which help to keep your skin smooth and supple), avocados are an age-old beauty secret. When topically applied to the hair and scalp, they have the added ability to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Mix a little avocado with sour cream (which contains lactic acid to help exfoliate dead skin and clean up buildup on the scalp) and apply to your hair and scalp for about ten minutes before washing it off.

8. Almonds:

These nuts will make your hair grow faster and thicker due to their high biotin content. One cup contains nearly one-third of your daily requirement. You should be able to see the results in a month or two of adding them to your diet.

Tips on How to Always Have a Perfect Hairstyle

With the idea in mind that women with perfect hair must practice good hair care habits in order to have perfect hair; we decided to ask them what it is they are doing (or not doing) in order to have such glorious, enviable, annoyingly great hair. We searched for women with strong, shiny and healthy hair, women with curly hair and straight hair, thick and fine, short and long, and asked them to share their hair care secrets.

Habit 1: Shampoo sparingly

Almost every woman talked to says they only shampoo and condition their hair every other day or two to three times a week. Reader Aly says her thick hair can only handle a washing every three to four days and “actually like[s] it best by the 2nd or 3rd day because it’s weighted down enough!” she says. Reader Lindsay agrees claiming she only washes her hair every three days with gentle shampoos and conditioners that don’t contain sulfates, which she says, “are good for my hair and the environment”. Perfect-haired Holly declares she only uses shampoo twice a week: “I guess you could call that a secret, but it’s widely known that if you wash it to much, it dries it out.” If shampooing only twice a week will leave your hair an oily mess, fret not. Other perfect-haired women like Amanda say they wash it every other day which still protects it from being “dry or over-worked.” she says.

Habit 2: Switch up products

Many of the women surveyed said their secret is switching up their shampoo and conditioner so their hair never “gets used to the same one,” says reader Holly. She changes up her shampoo and conditioners regularly just like perfect-haired Leylie and Jen, who like to “alternate between drugstore and salon products” says Jen. Sounds like variety isn’t just the spice to life, but to hair as well.

Habit 3: Go easy on the brushing

Surprisingly, most of the women we talked to said they rarely run a brush through their perfect hair. Whether or not that’s why their strands are so perfect might warrant further investigation, but most claim to only use a comb, and only immediately after washing their hair in order to “avoid knots” from the shampooing process, says reader Leylie. Reader Aly says, “I actually never brush my hair, which come to think of it is a bit weird, but after that initial blow-out, it usually stays how I want it”. Some, like reader Jen, even admitted to not even owning a brush. She says “I try my best to maintain volume by not brushing my hair.” And for the few perfect-haired ladies that did own up to brushing, they all mentioned that they only use natural fiber brushes.

Habit 4: Let hair dry naturally

Shiny, healthy and strong hair doesn’t like heat styling, and the majority of women we talked to said they mostly let their hair dry naturally. Again, these women may just be blessed with a naturally amazing hair texture and therefore don’t need to tame it with a blow dryer or flat iron, or they might actually have great hair because they don’t subject it to damaging heat. It’s hard to judge, but most, like reader Leslie, claim to let their hair “air-dry overnight in a bun” as they sleep. Others say they limit blow dry time to once a week and mostly use the coolest setting on their hair dryer like reader Chrissy who says she only touches a hairdryer when it is “set to cool ONLY”. Some, like reader Leylie, also dry their hair “a bit with a diffuser,” so they don’t have to walk out the door with “sopping wet hair.”

Habit 5: Trim regularly

The easiest way to get rid of split ends is, of course, to just chop them off. Perhaps this is why women with perfect hair don’t have any because most say they have their hair trimmed religiously — every three months or even “every six weeks”, like reader Leslie does. Those who can’t make it to the hairdresser all the time take matters into their own hands and trim any split ends themselves, like reader Chrissy who says; “I just take Conair hair styling scissors and trim the ends myself.”

Habit 6: Only color hair when necessary

The majority of women with perfect hair say they either don’t dye their hair at all or they do it infrequently. Reader Aly has never dyed her red hair for “fear of damage.” And reader Leslie, who is thankful that her mother never let her dye her hair as a teen, says she’s continued to “steer clear of dye” even as an adult: “my hair has a softness — unlike the fried texture a lot of my friends’ hair.” Perfect-haired Amanda says that refusing to over-processing her hair is her main rule of thumb: “I’m 27-years-old and only for the first time this summer have I ever done any color treatments.” And for the women with fabulous hair that do occasionally color treat their strands — mostly do it only to cover grays or to add subtle highlights.

Habit 7: Eat well and take vitamins

A healthy diet rich in vitamins and nutrients will give you gorgeous hair

12 Interesting Facts About Human Hair

Much like your nails, hands, fingers, and face your hair can show the world about you and your lifestyle.

Here are a few interesting facts about human hair:

1. Blonde women have more estrogen

The color of your hair is an external indicator that indicates several things depending on gender. Scientific research shows women with blonde hair have more estrogen than other hair colors. Blondes are also believed to have finer features and a more youthful personality.

2. Redheads hurt more

Redheads, often known as gingers are more prone to pain. Dentists and scientists believe they are more sensitive to pain and less sensitive to painkillers.

3. Growth rate

Facial hair grows faster than any other hair on your body. The hair on your head grows 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters every day. If you do not ever shave your beard during your lifespan, it can grow to 30 feet long, longer than a killer whale!

4. Baldness is associated with heart disease

Loss of hair should not be taken casually. Recent research of 40,000 men has shown links between baldness and risk of coronary heart disease. Bald men were prone to 70% greater risk of heart disease compared to non-balding men. There are multiple factors to explain this study including insulin and hormone-related variables.

5. Eyelash mites

You might be surprised to learn that your eyelashes contain tiny wormlike mites living in the follicles of eyelashes. These mites feed on waste like sebum. Excessive use of products like mascara and eyeliner can increase their population which can result in loss of follicles.

6. Human hair is almost indestructible

Other than flammability, the rate of decay of human hair is so slow that it becomes practically non-disintegrative. Your hair is resistant to many things, even some kind of acid and corrosive chemicals.

7. Blondes have more hair

Science shows that blondes have more hair than any other color. The average hair count is 100,000 while blondes on average have 130,000.

8. Weight supported by hair

100 grams of weight can be supported by a single human hair. Interestingly if you knit a rope of 100 hair, it can bear weight of up to 10 kg.

9. Fastest growing tissue

Hair is the fastest growing tissue in the human body next to bone marrow. Its advised by hair experts to get your hair trimmed every 6 weeks to keep it healthy.

10. Chimpanzee fact

Like chimpanzees, our bodies are covered with hair of the same density. This might surprise you, but what you see is not the actual truth. You only see the boldest, thickest, and most significant hair on your body which creates a false impression.

11. Disability and hair color

Medical conditions have been associated with blonde blue-eyed people. A study conducted on 50 learning disabled children, 20% were blond while only 11% of non-disabled children are blond. The combination of blue eyes and blond hair is often seen in those with phenylketonuria.

12. Hair Loss

On average a person loses 60-100 hair strands every day which is normal. There can be several factors that affect hair loss, including pregnancy, diet, season, or illness. A human hair has a life span of 3-7 years on average.

Sources1Source2Source3

Why Does Our Hair Turn Gray?

Age is something we cannot avoid or stop and graying is part of the aging process, we are all going to have gray hair at a point of our lives, but why does it happen? How can we delay and treat it?

Why does it happen?

Hair is first white, and then the formation of a pigment called melanin happens which has two pigments: one is dark and one is light. When these two mix they create different colors, this is why we all have different hair color.

Melanin is in every hair follicle in our scalps, Graying happens when our melanin producing cells called melanocytes become less active or there aren’t any cells left to produce the color.

There are certain factors that can change the pigmentation of hair and increase the graying:

1.Genetics:

There is something known as premature graying: people with perfectly healthy hair that gray in their 20s. This might be caused sometimes following reasons, as well as stress, but mostly it is all in the genes.

Genes will determine when you will get your first gray hair, same as baldness. Genes regulate the pigmentation potential of each individual hair follicle.

2.Smoking:

It’s known to increase the rate of graying since smokers are 4 times more likely to have gray hair.

3.Anemia, absence of B Vitamins, Untreated Thyroid and other medical conditions can cause premature graying.

4.Some conditions and medications affect your body as well as your hair.

5. Age: With age comes a reduction of melanin. The hair turns gray and eventually white.

6. Hydrogen Peroxide. This chemical builds on the hair shafts, which can lead to a gradual loss of hair color

Solutions:

-You can highlight or color hair with a semi-permanent or demi-permanent color:, highlights, permanent color

-Hair products

Sources:

http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/grayhair.html

http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-hair-conditions

http://www.disabled-world.com/health/dermatology/hair/gray-hair-causes.php

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-nails/abcs-premature-graying

http://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Gray-Hair 

Natural Conditioners For Different Hairs

Nurturing conditioners and fortifiers add vitality, suppleness, and silky luster to your crowning glory. Fortunately nature provides the right ingredients for every hair type.

Rinses, poultices, hair tonics and other conditioners can make dull hair shine. Pick treatments appropriate to your hair type.

 

Oily hair
Make lemon rinse by mixing ¼ liter (about 1 cup) boiling water with the peels from 2 lemons and steep, covered for 20 minutes. Strain and squeeze out the lemon peels thoroughly. Let the lemon water cool to warm before rinsing.

To make a conditioner containing essential oils, which can help regulate the activity of your oil glands, mix 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar with 2 drops of sage, juniper, and lemon oil with 7 ounces warm water. Rinse with it, then rinse again with tap water.

To rid your hair of oil and make it smell wonderful, make a vanilla rinse by mixing 3 ½ ounces (just short of 1/2 cup) each of white rum and beer, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon vanilla pulp. Massage into your hair. Rinse after 10 minutes and wash your hair thoroughly.

A tea tree oil poultice will reduce oily buildup, to make one mix ¼ cup of almond oil with 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 10 drops of tea tree oil, comb through wet hair, and leave for 30 minutes, rinse then wash.

Normal hair
To make a henna poultice that will leave your hair with a silky luster, stir together 1 tablespoon neutral henna with 1 egg yolk, 1 teaspoon olive oil, and enough warm water to make a spreadable paste. Massage into washed hair and leave in for 15 minutes, rinse with warm water.

For healthy scalp and lustrous hair, mix 3 drops each of neroli, chamomile, lavender and sage oil in the palm of your hand and spread through your freshly-washed hair, do not rinse off.

To make a natural hair fortifier, mix together 2 cups of warm water, 1 teaspoon honey, 1 teaspoon cider vinegar, and 3 drops lemon oil. After shampooing, spread through your hair and let it dry, do not rinse out

Dry, stressed hair
Avocados are outstanding sources of moisture. To make a deep conditioner, puree the flesh of 1 avocado and mix it with 2 egg yolks and 1 tablespoon molasses. Knead the paste evenly into your wet hair and rinse thoroughly after 30 minutes. Apply once a week.

Bananas also make a nurturing conditioner. Mix one crushed banana with 1 tablespoon avocado and massage the paste into your hair and scalp. Cover your hair with plastic wrap and a towel, leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse hair with warm water and wash with a mild shampoo.

Thyme protects your hair from drying out. To make a thyme rinse, pour ¼ liter (about 1 cup) boiling water over 3 tablespoons of thyme. Steep for 10 minutes, the strain and cool to lukewarm, apply with shampoo.

From: Natural Remedies for Healthy Living , The Readers Digest Association,2011

Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Each method is unique, however the Jacobson Progressive Relaxation is one of the most used relaxation techniques in psychotherapy and health use. This method shows the link between mind and body, proving that the muscles have an influence in the intensity of any reflex behavior, demonstrating how thoughts and emotional content affect muscle response.

Progressive relaxation is geared toward relaxation of the body, its especially helpful with sleep and anxiety disorders, helping some people to fall asleep spontaneously. The training in progressive relaxation allows a deep state of relaxation with minimal effort, permitting the person to obtain control of the tension in their muscles. 

In each of us there is a balanced and healthy ego, tension can hide this healthy ego, relaxation helps us get it back. The Jacobson technique emphasizes awareness of how sensations are produced. To recognize, feel, and identify the muscle tension that inhabits our body is the first step. The second step of this technique is to start relaxing and letting that tension go, eliminating the residual tension. 

Liberation from physical tension is an essential step to feel a sensation of calm. There are multiple zones where tension can accumulate, learning to relax these muscular groups is part of the process. 

The method

Jacobson proposed an effective method with different variations. Here are the essentials:

• Full attention to one particular muscle group

• Increased tension without pain, keeping this tension between 20 and 30 seconds in this particular muscle group

• Relaxation of this muscle group, keeping full attention on the relief and relaxation sensation that follows

• Try to breathe in while tensing the muscles and breathe out while relaxing or releasing the tension

You should:

• Tighten and flex or tense the muscle groups for 5 to 8 seconds

• Relax, release the tension for 10 to 15 seconds


It is necessary to consider stress as something disgusting and releasing the tension as something pleasant 

The practice of progressive muscle relaxation or, can be done in ascending or descending order, from the feet to the head or from head to foot. You can start where you feel most comfortable. 


Stress and relaxation are bilateral, what is done in the left arm must be done on the right.

Areas used to implement progressive muscle relaxation:

• Arms
• Chest
• Stomach
• Waist
• Legs
• Face
• Neck
• Shoulders

Focus is needed to enjoy the muscle relaxation phase, paying particular attention as relaxation occurs, noting how relaxation can produce a decrease in psychological stress. After completing the exercises you can stay calm for a few moments enjoying the relaxed feeling that comes with practice, make some quiet and deep breaths as we become aware of our state of calm, making conscious quiet time. 

Benefits of progressive muscle relaxation

This relaxation affects all body systems differently. It is a very beneficial for improving emotional and physical health

, Releases tension and muscle contractions
, Vasodilation
 Improves circulation
, Decreases blood pressure, Improved pulmonary function, 
Decreases gastric spasms
 Improves digestion
 Reduces colic
,     Avoids unnecessary energy expenditure.

8 Ways to Naturally Grow Your Hair

 • Get more of the essential 7 vitamins

All 7 essential vitamins are vital to our hair. Vitamins- A,B,B3, B12,C, and E improve the blood circulation in our body which includes the scalp. It is also important to mix these vitamins with right quantities of iron and zinc to help hair grow faster.

• Eat more protein

Protein provides the building blocks for new hair growth. Some proteins formulate Keratin which acts as a structure that hardens our hair. Lack of protein leads to reduced hair growth. Protein for hair growth can be obtained from fish, eggs, nuts, etc.

• Scalp massage

A healthy scalp massage helps to open up blood vessels and increases blood circulation. This helps the blood in delivering oxygen and essential nutrients to hair follicles which enable healthy hair growth.

• Try this recipe

Take one teaspoon of vodka, 5 drops of lavender oil, and 3 drops of rosemary oil. Mix them with one tablespoon distilled water. This mixture, when applied to hair and scalp, kills germs, eliminates dirt, and opens hair follicles that promote new hair growth.

• Avoid too much styling

Too much styling weakens our hair and stops hair growth. Certain chemicals present in styling shampoos and cleansers may cause thinning, damage, and even hair loss.

• Use egg whites

Egg whites have long been known for their medical effects. They have the ability make hair soft and shiny. Break a few eggs, whisk the whites, and apply as a mask to your hair. This type of mask promotes hair growth.

• Boiled onions

Onions are not just for cooking. Boil a few onions and wash your hair with the concoction. Do it regularly to accelerate hair growth.

• Potato mask

Squeeze the juice from 3 potatoes and add a little bit of honey. Combine the mixture with one egg white and you will have a great hair mask. It will increase the hair growth naturally without use of any chemicals.

Source

Source

Top 7 Foods for Healthy Hair

1. WHOLE GRAINS:

-breads, flour, rice and cereals

what it does to your hair?

Whole grains provide high quantity of fiber, zinc, vitamin B1, B2 and B6. If you include them in your diet, it will provide nourishment to the scalp and hair follicles.

2. Salmon

whats good about Salmon?

-It is a perfect source of rich in protein and vitamin D these are both essential in order to grow a strong hair

-About 3% of the hair shaft is make up of omega-3 fatty acids, that are found in Salmon.

3. Walnuts

what can these do to our hair?

-These are the only type of nut that have a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Same as the fatty acids we get from the Salmon, that are needed to grow a healthy hair.

-Contain biotin and vitamin E, which helps protect your cells from DNA damage.

4. Eggs

protein yes please!

-A great source of protein, minerals: zinc, selenium, sulfur, and iron.

-Iron is the most important, because it helps cells carry oxygen to the hair follicles, and too little iron (anemia) is a major cause of hair loss.

5. Spinach

-it contains iron, beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C to help keep hair follicles healthy and scalp oils circulating.

6. Carrots:


-great source of Vitamin A

- contains Sebum, which is important to keep the scalp and hair well moisturized.

7.Oysters:


- Rich sources of zinc, so they help by improving the appearance of hair. Zinc deficiency is a cause of hair loss.

SOURCES

http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-06-03/beauty/35797604_1_healthy-hair-hair-loss-scalp-and-hair

http://foodmatters.tv/articles-1/11-foods-and-natural-remedies-for-healthy-hair-growth

http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2012/08/08/dos-and-donts-of-healthy-hair

http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-styling/top-10-foods-for-healthy-hair

http://oilingpoint.com/how-to-make-a-stimulating-essential-oil-blend-for-hair-growth/

http://www.webmd.boots.com/healthy-eating/guide/10-foods-healthy-hair