PharmEasy Blog

10 Habits That Damage Your Hair: Protect Your Tresses For Voluminous Shine

We all desire luscious, healthy hair that exudes vitality and beauty. However, certain habits can unknowingly damage our precious tresses, leading to dryness, breakage and overall hair distress. In this article, we will explore some everyday hair-damaging habits outlined by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) and provide practical tips on protecting your hair for healthy growth. 

Let’s delve into these habits and learn how to give your hair the care it deserves.

1. Overwashing: Washing your hair with excessive shampoo and too frequently can strip away its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle and prone to breakage. Instead, aim for a balance by washing your hair every alternate day or as needed, depending on your hair type and lifestyle.

2. Vigorous Towel Drying: Rubbing your hair vigorously with a towel after washing can cause friction and lead to hair breakage. Instead, gently squeeze out excess water from your hair using a soft towel or an old cotton t-shirt. Allow your hair to air dry whenever possible to minimise heat damage from blow drying.

3. Using Hot Water: Washing your hair with hot water can strip away its natural oils, leaving it dehydrated and dull. Choose lukewarm or cool water while washing your hair to help retain moisture and maintain its natural shine.

4. Overusing Heat Styling Tools: Excessive use of heat-styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons and blow dryers can damage your hair shaft, leading to breakage and split ends. To minimise heat damage, embrace your natural hair texture or use heat protectant sprays or serums before styling.

5. Tight Hairstyles: Wearing tight ponytails, braids, buns or other hairstyles that pull your hair tightly can cause tension and lead to hair breakage, especially along the hairline. Opt for looser hairstyles and use hair accessories made from soft materials to minimise damage.

Also Read: How To Increase Melanin In Hair: A Research-Based Guide To Restoring Color Naturally

6. Chemical Overprocessing:h Frequent chemical treatments like perming, relaxing or colouring can weaken the hair structure over time. Give your hair enough time to recover between treatments and consult a professional stylist who can assess the present condition of your hair and recommend the most suitable and gentle approach.

7. Neglecting Sun Protection: Just like your skin, your hair can be damaged by the sun’s harmful UV rays. Protect your hair by wearing a hat or using hair products with built-in UV protection when spending time outdoors.

8. Rough Brushing: Brushing your hair aggressively, especially when it’s wet, can cause hair breakage and damage. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to detangle your hair gently, starting from the ends and working your way up.

9. Using Harsh Hair Accessories: Hair accessories with rough edges, metal clasps or tight elastics can cause friction and breakage. Opt for hair accessories made from soft materials, like fabric-covered elastics or scrunchies, to prevent unnecessary damage.

10. Ignoring Regular Trims: Avoiding regular hair trims can accumulate split ends, leading to further hair damage. Schedule regular appointments with your hairdresser in order to keep your hair healthy and maintain its overall appearance.

By being mindful of these hair-damaging habits and adopting healthier hair care practices, you can protect your tresses and promote healthy growth. Remember to nourish your hair from within by maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated and managing stress levels. You can enjoy the beautiful, vibrant hair you’ve always desired with proper care and attention.

Also Read: What is Botox for Hair: The Guide to Transformative Hair Care

Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

References

https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/habits-that-damage-hair

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513312/

2

Shea Butter: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh

Introduction: 

Since ancient times, many plant species and their products have been used by humans as food or medicines to treat illnesses. Shea butter is one such fat extracted from the shea fruit’s kernel. It is obtained from the nuts of the Vitellaria paradoxa (formerly Butyrospermum paradoxa) and Vitellaria parkii trees belonging to the family sapotaceae. Butyrospermum, which means ‘butter seed’, explains that we can extract butter from seed after processing. The shea tree grows in Nigeria, Ghana and regions of West and East Africa. It is imported to India for its several benefits. Butter is solid at normal temperature but melts quickly at body temperature. It is utilised in cosmetics as well as in the food industry.1-3 We can apply it as a cream or bath product like shampoo. Let’s keep reading to learn about shea butter and its potential uses. 

Nutritional Value of Shea Butter: 

Shea butter contains the following nutrients and their average content per 100g dry weight:1 

Nutrient Percentage Content 
Water (%) 1.4% 
Carbohydrates  22.3 
Lipid 75 
Ash 2.3 
Calcium  9.6mg 
Copper 0.8mg 
Iron 3.6mg 
Potassium 2.2mg 
Magnesium 4.5mg 
Manganese 0.006mg 
Sodium 4.2mg 
Zinc 2.7mg 

         Table 1: Depicting the nutrient content of shea butter per 100g/dw1 

Vitamins present in the shea butter are as follows: 

Along with these, shea butter contains triglycerides, plant sterols, saponin and triterpenes.1 

Anti-inflammatory compounds included in shea butter may reduce skin oedema and redness. I recommend people apply it to soothe any discomfort, including sunburns, chapped lips, and skin which is overexposed to acidic peels or washes.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Properties of Shea Butter: 

The following are the properties of shea butter: 

Potential Uses of Shea Butter for Overall Health: 

1. Potential uses of shea butter for healing 

Shea butter is a rich source of fatty acids and plant sterols such as linoleic, palmitic, and stearic acids, which may have healing properties. Due to its anti-inflammatory property, it may be applied as an ointment. Shea butter has a lower soap formation rate than other nut oils. It also includes vitamin A, which may treat skin sensitivities such as poison ivy and bug bites. It also contains Vitamin F, which might help rejuvenate rough or damaged skin. Furthermore, it may have a soothing effect. Raw and unrefined shea butter may benefit skin rashes, stretch marks, burns, bug bites, athlete’s foot, scars, frost bites, skin peeling after tannin and arthritis.1 Fatty acids present in the shea butter may help in these conditions. However, shea butter alone may not be able to help you with this condition. So, please consult a physician for a diagnosis and treatment. 

2. Potential uses of shea butter for hair 

Shea butter may protect hair against harmful free radicals in the air, water and harsh weather conditions. Shea butter has a non-greasy texture, which allows it to spread easily on the scalp. Shea butter protects hair from heat after application. This protective function may be helpful for processed or coloured hair. When applied to the hair before swimming, Shea butter may protect it from salt and chlorine. Furthermore, it may be beneficial in softening and restoring damaged or dry hair and curly hair treatments.1 However, shea butter may result in serious problems. So, please visit a doctor for better health results. 

3. Potential uses of shea butter for allergies  

Shea butter contains triterpenes such as e-butyrospermol, lupeol, parkeol, etc. As a result, it may lower hypersensitivity reactions such as IgE-mediated allergy reactions, which are the antibodies that cause the allergic reaction. It may also be beneficial in patients with autoimmune responses in mammals.1 Although, shea butter alone may not be able to help you with allergies. So, kindly consult a physician. 

4. Potential uses of shea butter for skin 

Shea butter may act as a sunscreen and moisturizing agent. Sunscreens work by absorbing or reflecting some of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) light and blocking it from reaching the skin. According to a study done by Nahm in 2011 the cinnamate esters found in shea butter can absorb UV rays from the sun. Therefore, it may provide some sun protection. In addition, shea butter may add more moisture and nutrition to the skin in the winter and summer as it absorbs into the skin rapidly and has high water-binding characteristics, which may be helpful for skin care. Also, shea butter might protect the skin from sunburn, photo-ageing and erythema and reduce the risk of skin cancer.1 Nonetheless, please consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Avoid trying self-medication because conditions could worsen. 

5. Potential uses of shea butter for protein metabolism 

Protein metabolism may assist tissue repair and growth, allow metabolic reactions to occur and coordinate vital functions. Malachi, 2013 found that saponin in shea butter can form complexes with protein in the intestine. It may reduce protein concentrations in hepatic and renal organs, as well as in the blood. As a result, it may minimise protein metabolism in the body.1 However, please visit a doctor. Self-medication with shea butter may result in serious complications. 

6. Potential uses of shea butter for anti-ageing 

Triterpenes in shea butter might help improve collagen and elastin function, which protects the skin and provide strength. This might help in slowing the ageing process. In the study by Tran done in 1986, it was shown that shea butter has anti-erythemic activity against UV, which is the skin redness caused by an allergic reaction. This property may soften the skin and increase cell regeneration.1 There is a need for more research to explore the potentiality of shea butter as an anti-ageing agent. Kindly consult the doctor for better health results. 

7. Potential uses of shea butter for cholesterol 

In a study by Akinwale et al., 2012 saponins and linoleic acid present in shea butter may lower LDL, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in rats. In the same study, saponins in shea butter were found to form complexes with cholesterol and bile acids in the colon. As a result, rather than absorption, it produces cholesterol excretion. Furthermore, Masters et al. (2004) discovered that high levels of stearic acids in shea butter had antihypercholesterolemic properties, which may lower LDL and total cholesterol levels in the blood.1,2 However, further research on this subject might be able to prove the effects of shea butter on cholesterol management. If you have high cholesterol levels, consult a doctor and do not self-medicate. 

8. Potential uses of shea butter for cardiovascular health 

In a study by Amegah et al., 2019 consumption of shea butter may improve cardiovascular health and reduce hypertension. Oleic acid, linoleic acid and polyphenols in shea butter may help improve cardiovascular health.4 However, more studies are needed to prove the role of shea butter in cardiovascular health. As cardiovascular disease is a severe condition, please consult the doctor for the same. 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of shea butter in various conditions, but these are insufficient and there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of shea butter on human health.  

How to Use Shea Butter? 

  1. You can use shea butter as a cooking oil.1 
  1. You can apply it as a lotion, sun-screening agent or moisturizer.1 
  1. You can apply it as hand cream or shampoo.1 

You must consult a qualified doctor before taking any herbal supplements. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.   

Vitamin E is naturally abundant in shea butter making it one of the best skin moisturizing agent. Vitamin E is known for its antioxidant activity, that may protect against cellular deterioration and increase moisture in the skin.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Also Read: Does Butter Go Bad? Your Guide to Butter Shelf Life

Side Effects of Shea Butter: 

Shea butter has no known side effects. Although, if an unpleasant reaction happens, get immediate medical help. First, consult the physician who prescribed it to you; they will be able to diagnose and cure the problem. 

Precautions to Take with Shea Butter:  

It is important to take general safety precautions when taking any medication. It should be used cautiously, especially by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, and only when prescribed by your doctor. In addition, you should take caution while giving it to children and the elderly. 

Interactions with Other Drugs: 

There were no adverse drug interactions reported between shea butter with other drugs. However, there is not enough information to say it doesn’t interact with other medicines and is entirely safe to use; further research is in need on this topic. As a result, you must follow your doctor’s advice carefully, as their prescription depends on your health situation. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

Does shea butter have a positive effect on migraine? 

No, however more research is required to determine the effect of shea butter on migraine. 

Does shea butter help in reducing occurrence of skin cancer? 

Shea butter may be helpful in halting the process of photo-carcinogenesis which is related to tumour growth. UVB rays from the sun can cause it. These radiations have the potential to destroy cell DNA. So, shea butter might have a direct protective effect on DNA and may help in the management of skin cancer.1 Even so, cancer is a severe condition; please consult the doctor for diagnosis and treatment. 

How does shea butter moisturise skin and hair? 

Shea butter includes vitamins A and E, which may be helpful as a hair moisturiser. Shea butter also has semi-solid properties and buttery consistency, which might make it a good moisturiser for the scalp and skin.1 Kindly consult the doctor for better health results. 

State the side effects of shea butter. 

There are no side effects associated with shea butter. However, if you are experiencing unpleasant symptoms, please see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.  

Is shea butter effective in diabetes? 

No. Although please consult the doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment, as diabetes is a severe condition. 

References: 

  1. MAANIKUU PM, PEKER K. Medicinal and nutritional benefits from the Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa). Journal of Biology Agriculture and Healthcare. 2017;7(22):51-7. Available from: https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/234662463.pdf 
  1. Akinwale A, Modu S, Maisartu MA, Zainab MA, Bilkisu UM. Effect of feeding various concentrations of shea oil on some biochemical parameters in normal albino rat. Bulletin of Environment, Pharmacology & Life Sciences. 2012 Jan;1(2):14-7. Available from: https://bepls.com/april_2013/16.pdf 
  1. Honfo FG, Akissoe N, Linnemann AR, Soumanou M, Van Boekel MA. Nutritional composition of shea products and chemical properties of shea butter: a review. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition. 2014 Jan 1;54(5):673-86. Available from: (PDF) Nutritional Composition of Shea Products and Chemical Properties of Shea Butter: A Review (researchgate.net) 
  1. Amegah AK, Brahuah E, Stranges S. Cooking with shea butter is associated with lower blood pressure in the Ghanaian population. Int. J. Vitam. Nutr. Res. 2019 Apr 10. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332331411_Cooking_with_shea_butter_is_associated_with_lower_blood_pressure_in_the_Ghanaian_population 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

8

How To Take Care Of My Hair & Skin During Holi?

Holi is unequivocally the most colourful, vibrant and cheerful festival not just in India but around the globe. Traditionally Holi was celebrated with dry gulal and buckets of water. Unfortunately, today it comes with splashes of synthetic pigments, the after-effects of which not only causes discomfort to our skin, hair, eyes but also can be hazardous to our health. Hence, being a little precautious goes a long way. Along with all the Holi party fun, it’s also important to care for your skin during the celebration. So, before you step out for Holi this year, here are a few things to keep in mind:

Pre Holi Skin & Hair Care Tips:

Oil is your best friend. Apply oil on your face and the exposed parts of the skin or areas of your body that would come in contact with the colour. You can use coconut oil or almond oil, which will help protect your skin from colours. A day before Holi, apply body oil all over your body and massage it into the skin. This not only hydrates your skin but also ensures that less colour is absorbed the next day. In addition, you can also oil your hair to form a protective shield on the strands. Apply oil generously all over the body. Do not forget the smaller areas like the earlobes, nail crevices and skin behind the ears.

Don’ts:

Try to avoid shampooing your hair right after playing Holi. Instead, apply a hair mask and leave it for 45 minutes before shampooing. This will help remove the colours and reduce any damage. Hair oil like almond or coconut is helpful to apply before going out to play.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

Do’s:

Use of Natural Colours and PROPER GENTLE TIMELY CLEANSING is very important. Post cleansing adequate moisturization is very important as well.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

Post Holi Skin & Hair Care Tips:

It’s best to remove colours when it’s wet, as it is difficult to remove them once they’ve dried. Take a shower as soon as you reach home.  Use a gentle face wash and body wash and gently scrub the skin with a loofah to get rid of the color. Use a clarifying shampoo to rinse color from hair. After the shampoo, apply conditioner along with the length of hair. Leave it on for a couple of minutes and rinse with cold water. Use colour protect conditioner for color-treated hair. While removing colors, don’t rub your skin vigorously, this can cause more damage to your skin. Instead, use oil to remove colors gently. After you shower, don’t forget to apply nourishing body lotion and face moisturizer as the skin tends to become dry due to excess colour and sun exposure. If you find your skin breaking out mildly, apply Aloe-Vera gel or Lacto-Calamine lotion which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin. Take an anti-allergy medicine, but if the rash doesn’t subside in a day, visit a dermatologist without further delay. Get a facial done only a week after, provided you don’t have any skin trouble or issues.

Protecting your skin and hair during Holi requires you to follow all the pre and post-care tips as well as the do’s and don’ts mentioned above. It’s always a good idea to use more water and flower petals and less colour. If you have to use colour, go organic or use natural colours like haldi, beetroot juice and organic gulal.

Have questions about Diabetes and Tuberculosis? Click here to ask Anya!

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

6

9 Aloe Vera Benefits for Face and Skin!

Aloe Vera, the modest houseplant is a ‘miracle,’ wonder plant, often hiding in plain sight. Having been around and used as a medicinal herb, it nourishes the body from the inside – it is rich in nutrients, aids in improving digestion and even boost immunity. Aloe Vera can be used topically too, i.e., its gel can be used to enhance one’s skin, especially the face and the hair.

However, before we get into the essential reasons and health benefits of Aloe Vera, let us first learn how to extract Aloe Vera gel directly from the plant. If you have an Aloe Vera plant at home, select its fatter leaves or stems and cut it from the base. Or you may pull the leaves from their bottom.  Be careful as the plant has thorns.

Next, use a sharp knife to slice the thorns from the edge of each leaf. Then slice the stalk in half and keep the gel side up. You may slice open leaf as well. Use a spoon to scrape the gel out into a container. When all the gel is extracted, refrigerate the gel. If this process seems too tedious for you, you can buy Aloe Vera gel from the market as well.

Here are six reasons to apply Aloe Vera gel on your face, skin, and hair –

Aloe vera contains the enzyme bradykinase, which is the active ingredient to suppress signs of inflammation, namely redness, swelling, pain, and heat when the gel is applied on the skin.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

1 Helps soothe sunburn

Aloe Vera gel has cooling properties and is anti-inflammatory. Hence, it is one of the most natural remedies for sunburn or burnt skin. Applying this gel helps with a protective layer for the skin, and it also helps to retain moisture. It is rich in antioxidants and minerals that boost the healing process. So now you can maintain your summer skin health using aloe vera.

2 Helps to moisturize the skin

Unlike regular, market-bought moisturizers, Aloe Vera gel when used as a moisturizing gel doesn’t leave a greasy film on the face and the skin. In fact, it does just the opposite – it unclogs the pores and softens the skin.

It can be used as an aftershave treatment. This is because the Aloe Vera gel helps to keep the skin hydrated and heals burns by razors and smaller nicks & cuts. It also helps treat dry skin.

There has been a recent advancement regarding the composition of aloe vera. Researchers have isolated a compound, alprogen from aloe vera which is found to be effective against skin allergy.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

Also Read: Jojoba Oil for Skin: Understanding Its Science-Backed Benefits

3 Boosts healing of wounds

It is now a known fact that Aloe Vera is highly beneficial for burns, cuts, and other injuries. This is because Aloe Vera boosts the healing of wounds, i.e., reduces the time of healing. This is true especially in the case of 1st degree and 2nd-degree burns. It’s a great skin burn treatment. It also helps to speed up skin cell reproduction as much as eight times. Aloe Vera is also known to penetrate the epidermis, i.e., the outer layer of the skin faster than water.

4 Fights skin-ageing

Aloe vera gel is considered a great cleanser for the skin due to its antiseptic action. It is comprised of soap-like substances, saponins, which are effective antiseptic agents.

Dr. Smita barode, BAMS

Aloe Vera gel has vitamin C and E, beta-carotene in abundance. Therefore, it has anti-ageing properties. It also contains antimicrobial properties and is anti-inflammatory. It also helps to eradicate skin blemishes and diminish age lines. Additionally, it helps to increase the production of collagen in the body and skin elasticity.

aloe vera for skin

5 Reduces infection and acne

Those who suffer from acne will find respite in Aloe Vera. It helps in gentle cleansing, and its antimicrobial properties treat pimples without causing any damages to the skin. It is an antiseptic that allows protection against bacteria. Aloe Vera contains polysaccharides and gibberellins. These help in the growth of new cells and at the same time, reduce inflammation and redness. It also works as an astringent that reduces the size of pores, flushing out the excess sebum, microbes, and dirt.

6 Lightens blemishes on the face

As we already know, Aloe Vera contains powers to boost skin cell reproduction, reduce redness, and fight skin inflammation, it is a natural treatment for stretch marks and acne marks. To treat freckles and lighten age spots, add some lemon juice to the gel mixture. It is one of the perfect home remedies for glowing skin.

Also Read: Nodular Acne: Research-backed Solutions for Managing Stubborn Breakouts

Aloe Vera for hair and scalp

Did you know that there are almost 250 different aloe vera varieties, out of which only 4 are capable of beneficial effects on health? Also, aloe vera is 96% water. The health benefits are due to the constituents which constitute about 4 % of the composition of aloe vera.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, MD

1 Helps in hair growth

Like skin reproduction, Aloe Vera gel helps in activating new hair growth as it increases blood circulation to the scalp. It also provides essential minerals and vitamins. Aloe Vera contains proteolytic enzymes that help repair dead skin on the scalp. So aloe vera works as a great remedy for scalp problems in women and men.

PharmEasy Recommends: Everherb (By Pharmeasy) Aloe Vera Juice With Pulp 

2 Keeps dandruff at bay

Aloe Vera helps in healing dry skin, fungal infections and excessively oily skin. All these are significant causes of dandruff. It is one of the natural ways to get rid of dandruff.

3 Acts as a conditioner to the hair and scalp

Just as how it moisturizes the skin, Aloe Vera helps to condition the hair and soften it. Regularly applying Aloe gel to the hair and scalp helps to maintain the vitality of the hair and its shine.

Also Read: Red Spots on Skin: Causes, Symptoms, and Research-Based Treatment Strategies

Ways to Use Aloe Vera For Skin

A Highly effective and prominent compound which works against inflammation of the skin has been recently extracted from aloe vera gel. This compound is known as C-glucosyl Chromone.

Dr. Ashok Pal, BAMS

Here are a few simple and easy Aloe vera DIY recipes for using it on your skin:

IngredientsMethod
Aloe Vera gel– Take 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel or fresh aloe vera pulp- Apply directly to the face and neck
Aloe vera gel, Vitamin E– Break the Vitamin E capsule and pour out the content into 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel- Mix it thoroughly then apply to the areas around your eye- Leave it in overnight
Aloe vera, raw honey, sea salt– Mix 2 tablespoons of aloe vera with a little sea salt well- Add in a tablespoon of honey, combine it well- Use as a gentle scrub for mild exfoliation on the body and face- Rinse with warm water
Aloe vera, honey and rosewater– Combine1 tablespoon of aloe vera,1 tablespoon of raw honey and 2 tablespoons of rosewater- Mix into a smooth paste and apply as a mask- Leave it on your face for 10-20 minutes- Wash with warm water- Can be used several times a week for those with acne issues

Must Read: 7 Powerful Home Remedies For Acne

FAQs

1. What are some of the side effects of Aloe Vera?

There are a few side effects of aloe vera. If you take aloe vera orally, it might cause cramping and diarrhoea as it has a laxative effect. It can also be bad for the colon. High doses of oral aloe are dangerous and you can also have intestinal problems, heart disease, hemorrhoids, kidney problems, diabetes or electrolyte imbalances.

2. How much aloe vera is safe to use?

Aloe vera used in creams and gels vary in dosage. While some may have just 0.5% aloe vera, others may contain as much as 70% aloe vera, used as a treatment for psoriasis. Aloe as an oral supplement must be consumed in moderation and it is best to consult a doctor. 

3. Is aloe vera good for dark circles?

Aloe vera is often used as a natural remedy for dark circles. It may improve skin moisture, support mature skin and reduce inflammation and is recommended to use under the eye but not too close to the edge of your eyelid.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for  educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

402
11

6 Food Items For Strong, Healthy Hair

Our hair needs to be fulfilled with a complete and healthy diet to grow and nourish well. So here are some tips to get that lustrous shine.

Nutritional deficiency in the diet affects both hair structure and hair growth, which may lead to hair loss conditions such as acute or chronic telogen effluvium, Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) and alopecia areata. Thus, a healthy and balanced diet with the right nutrients including protein, vitamins, essential fats and minerals is important to strengthen your hair and can improve your hair growth and can help your hair stay shiny.  Following are some foods habits that fight hair loss and support thick, healthy hair: 

1. Eat foods rich in healthy fats

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fats and play a vital role in replenishing and strengthening hair. They promote hair growth and keep them shiny. They also provide the oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated. Fish like salmon, sardines, tuna and mackerel are full of omega-3 fatty acids. Some nuts (such as almonds, walnuts), seeds (such as flaxseeds and chia seeds) and oil (such as Flaxseed oil, canola oil, Olive oil) are super rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Additionally, some vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower) are also a rich source of essential fatty acids. One should add these foods to their diet and consume them on a regular basis.

2. Consume an adequate amount of iron

Iron is an important mineral for hair and deficiency of Iron is a major cause of hair loss. People who do not eat enough iron-rich foods may have low ferritin levels, which are very essential for hair growth. If your diet allows it, try to eat beef (especially organ meats like liver) and shellfish. If you are vegetarian, you can also have iron from fortified cereal, grains, soybeans and lentils. Also include dark green leafy vegetables like spinach in your diet, as they are loaded with a good source of iron.

3. Have citrus fruits and berries 

Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that strengthens hair follicles and prevents breakage. It plays a vital role in iron absorption. So, patients with hair loss associated with iron deficiency should include vitamin C rich food in their diet. Thus, include citrus fruits such as guava, melons, etc. in your diet to get your daily dose of vitamin C. Berries also have antioxidant properties that can help protect hair follicles against damage from harmful molecules. Thus to keep that scalp and hair protected, it is recommended to consume Vitamin C.

4. Eat foods rich in Protein

Protein is the building block of hair and its deficiency produces weak and brittle hair which may lead to hair loss. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you have enough protein in your diet. Eggs are one of the richest natural sources of protein. Chicken, turkey, lean red meat, shrimp, and salmon are also good sources of protein. Soy products, greek yoghurt, legumes (kidney beans and lentils) also provide good dietary protein, which promotes hair growth.

5. Eat foods rich in vitamins and minerals

Vitamins (such as A, B6, B12, folic acid and E) and minerals (such as magnesium, zinc and biotin) play a crucial role in the development of normal hair follicles. Such micronutrients strengthen hair follicles, protect against dry and dull hair, prevent hair breakage, keep hair moisturized, as well as help with blood flow to your scalp and hair growth. Spinach is a good source of vitamin A, beta carotene and folates. Other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes (both white and sweet) are a good source of vitamin A and B6. Red and yellow bell peppers are a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin C. You can also include Fortified whole-grain breakfast cereals in your diet which contain zinc, iron and vitamin B. Meat, poultry, fish and dairy products are good sources of vitamin B12. Food that provides you zinc includes oysters, whole grain, nuts, beef and lamb.

6. Hydrate yourself well

Water is important for good health and potentially for good hair. It also improves food digestion. Try to drink an ample amount of water during the day.

While there are many products to help with scalp moisturization like creams and conditioners, one of the best ways to support hair health is through internal hydration. Drinking enough water every day can help to avoid common problems like itchy scalp, brittle hair and some kinds of hair loss. Dry, unmoisturized hair tends to cause split-ends and breakage. Apart from the hair benefits of drinking enough water, proper hydration also leads to many other health benefits.

Conclusion:

In order to determine the best foods for hair growth and hair health, it is important to know which vitamins and nutrients are important for the hair growth process. Ensuring a healthy and varied diet, which includes sources of antioxidants, iron, vitamins and minerals, can make hair strong, shiny and promote growth. Ensure you make the right dietary changes for your healthy hair.

An initiative by

Disclaimer:

The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

2