Monsoon is back and so are the varied problems related to your skin and hair. Itchy scalp, greasiness, and dandruff are the common issues that you will have to deal with in this season. To top it all, the monsoon steals the bounce from your hair and makes every day seem like a bad hair day. Don’t you think it’s about time we nipped these hair problems in the bud so that we can enjoy the glory of monsoon without worrying?
Common Hair Problems in Monsoon
Following a proper hair care regimen to fight hair problems in monsoon is mandatory. Listed below are some of the most commonly faced issues when it comes to hair health in monsoon:
1. Dandruff
Excess humidity during monsoon makes the scalp greasy and sticky, a perfect condition for bacteria and fungus to breed. Malassezia is the fungus associated with dandruff. This fungus also causes oxidative stress to the scalp and hair, makes it itchy, and weakens the hair follicles. The outcome of this is hair loss. Though dandruff can be an issue anytime, it gets aggravated in monsoon as Malassezia, the fungus, thrives during the monsoon.
2. Hair Loss
The increase in humidity level combined with sweating makes the scalp dry and delicate. Dirt and dust deposits on the hair worsen the monsoon hair problems. Hair follicles become weak whenever your scalp comes in contact with the rainwater. All this results in spiking hair fall by 30% as compared to the hair fall that happens during the normal hair growth cycle.
3. Lice
The breeding season for lice is monsoon and it can become a serious problem if not dealt with in the initial stage.
4. Infection and Itchiness
Exposure to acidic rainwater and the humid conditions in the monsoon makes the scalp oily and sticky. The scalp becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus, leading to infection. Besides this, humidity combined with sweat makes the scalp dry and sensitive. With all these conditions, hair will be the weakest during the monsoon and without proper care, you may end up facing excessive hair fall and hair thinning.
You can put a stop to the monsoon hair problems by following a strict hair care routine till the season lasts.
Hair Care Routine for the Monsoon
If you intend to bring back the bounce and shine to your hair besides dealing with the other monsoon hair problems, follow the simple hair care routine mentioned below and reap the benefit.
- Avoid getting drenched in the rain. Rainwater is acidic with a pH level of 5.6 which is not good for your hair. The dust and pollution will add to the misery. Washing the hair immediately after you get back home will help you keep the scalp clean and free of problems.
- Dry your hair with a microfibre towel or a t-shirt to absorb the water well. Do not scrub the hair dry with a towel as you may end up pulling out some strands as the hair is the weakest when wet. Avoiding wet hair for a prolonged time during the rainy season will be of great help to deal with hair problems.
- Condition your hair before the wash with a gentle coconut oil massage. Warm coconut oil gives you better results. Coconut oil helps in retaining the natural oil and reduces water absorption into the scalp when you wash the hair. Use mild and chemical-free shampoo to avert hair fall.
- Eating well is the key to improving immunity and boosting hair health. Your diet should contain foods rich in Vitamin A, B, C, D, E, K, Calcium, Protein, Omega 3, and minerals like zinc and iron to nourish your hair during the monsoon. Include seasonal fruits, vegetables, and flax seeds in your diet. Keeping yourself hydrated by consuming lots of water is essential for robust hair health during the monsoon.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair. Hair is the weakest when wet and can break if the choice of the comb is not right. Also, avoid sharing combs to avert infections.
- Neem and turmeric are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, neem and turmeric are loaded with Vitamin C which is very good for hair health. Applying the paste of neem and turmeric minutes before a hair wash to your scalp will be a natural remedy to keep the dandruff at bay during the monsoon.
- Keep your hair short for easy maintenance during the rainy season. With long hair, you will be putting in a lot of force to comb through the length which will be a reason for hair fall. Short hair can restrict hair fall to a large extent.
- Try to avoid styling and colouring your hair. Chemical treatment to your hair can do further damage. Men should avoid using hair gels for styling their hair during the monsoon. If styling your hair is inevitable and if you will have to use a hair dryer, straightener, or curler, then make sure you apply a heat-resistant spray before exposing your hair to heat. If you really want to colour your hair, then make sure you follow a proper post-colouring hair care routine to protect your hair from the dullness caused by rainwater.
- Use mild shampoos that suit your hair type. Sulphates and parabens in the chemical-based shampoos can add to the maladies caused by the monsoon. Shampoos comprising natural ingredients like Amla, Rita, Shikakai, Aloe Vera, and Triphala are best recommended to maintain the bounce, lustre, and texture of your hair. Shampooing your hair should be followed by conditioning with a natural hair conditioner to maintain the bounce and shine of your hair. Post-conditioning, you should not forget the final ritual i.e., applying a serum on the damp hair to avoid frizziness.
- When you step out, avoid drenching your hair in the rain. This will ward off the accumulation of bacteria and fungus due to the constant contact with rainwater. Keeping your hair free from infection will solve most of the issues.
- Wear a headgear like a scarf or a hoodie or carry an umbrella when you set out during the monsoon to protect your hair from rainwater. The acidity in the rainwater can do sufficient damage to your hair.
Conclusion
Every season brings its share of hair problems. There are hair care routines to deal with the issues faced during every season. Hair problems in monsoon can be specifically dealt with by following the hair care routine and tips mentioned above.
