Exercise more, quit a bad habit, be kinder to the planet ... right about now is when we start thinking about our New Year's resolutions, but what about resolutions for our hair? As we step into the new year, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate not just our lifestyles but also our hair care routines. Our locks, often subjected to hair damage from styling tools, chemicals, and even our environment, deserve some extra love and attention. Embrace 2024 with a personal promise to achieve healthier, shinier, and more vibrant hair. Here are 10 hair resolutions to make your locks the best they can be.
1. Embrace Your Natural Hair
If you've been hiding that gorgeous curly hair under a hat, ponytail, or flat iron, make 2024 the year you celebrate your natural hair texture. There are many benefits to going natural. For one, you can put the heat tools away. Heat styling products can cause split ends, dry and dull strands, and breakage. With the right products that ensure your curls stay moisturized (starting with Lu's Freedom Collection for all curl types), you can wash, style, air dry, and go all year long.
2. Commit to Hydrating
Drinking more water is usually at the top of our list of ways to improve our health, but did you know it can be one of the best New Year's hair resolutions you can make? One of the pillars of healthy hair is hydration. Make it a point to drink an adequate amount of water daily to keep your hair and scalp hydrated from within. For the record, for women that's about 11.5 cups per day, or 91 ounces, according to the experts. Additionally, invest in a nourishing, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that suits your hair type to maintain optimal moisture levels.
3. Go for Regular Trims
One of the most overlooked healthy hair habits, regular trims help keep your strands free of split ends. Even if you're growing your hair, a trim every 8-12 weeks can prevent split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, promoting healthier and faster growth. This resolution ensures that your hair remains lively and retains its shape.
4. Eat Healthy for Your Hair
Your hair's health is a reflection of your overall well-being. Commit to a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including biotin, vitamin E, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients promote hair strength, thickness, and shine. Incorporate foods like salmon, avocados, nuts, and leafy greens into your meals for a hair-boosting nutritional kick. As a bonus, these are also great choices for your overall health!
5. Give Your Scalp Some TLC
A healthy scalp is the foundation of beautiful hair. Pledge to treat your scalp with care by choosing a gentle shampoo, massaging it while washing to stimulate blood flow, and avoiding harsh chemicals. Scalp massages using natural oils like coconut or jojoba can also nourish and invigorate your scalp, promoting a conducive environment for hair growth.
6. Try a Protective Style
This year, explore protective hairstyles that shield your hair from environmental elements and reduce daily manipulation. Braids, twists, and updos not only look stylish but also protect your hair from breakage and damage. Experimenting with these styles can be a fun way to diversify your look while preserving the health of your locks. Pro tip: use Lu's Rescue Collection to help your hair maintain it's natural strength and elasticity.
7. Ditch the Chemicals
Bid farewell to harsh chemicals in your hair care routine. Resolve to reduce or eliminate the use of products containing sulfates, parabens, and silicones. Natural and organic hair products, including everything made by Lu, are gaining popularity for a reason – they work without compromising your hair's health. Look for products with clean ingredients to give your hair the TLC it deserves.
8. Exercise Regularly
Here's another healthy habit that affects your mind, body, and hair. Physical activity promotes a healthy scalp and hair. Regular exercise improves blood circulation, ensuring that your hair follicles receive the nutrients they need for optimal growth. Make it a resolution to incorporate regular workouts into your routine, whether it's a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a gym workout. And in case you were worried, there's no evidence to suggest that exercise causes hair loss.
9. Practice Mindful Detangling
Wet hair equals fragile hair, so you need to detangle with care. Invest in a wide-toothed comb and start detangling from the tips, working your way up to the roots. Apply one of Lu's leave-in styling creams or a detangling spray to make the process smoother. By being mindful of how you detangle, you reduce the risk of breakage and keep your hair looking healthy and vibrant.
10. Find Your Ideal Shower Routine
Here's a little secret: most people don't need to wash their hair every day. Wash and condition your hair when needed, and feel free to experiment until you find the right cadence for your mane. And while you're at it, turn down the temperature! Steaming hot showers can feel luxurious, but they can strip your hair of its natural moisture. For the best results, use lukewarm water when you wash your hair. Finally, build in enough time to air-dry or towel-dry your hair rather than blow-dry.
