MANE EVENT
We all want it thicker, fuller, longer or all of the above. As we age, each strand seems to become more precious than the last as we watch our luscious locks shed. There are a wide variety of reasons as to why we lose our hair such as stress, genetics, age, poor nutrition, hormonal changes, autoimmune disorders, and damage from over styling, to name a few. Suddenly we find ourselves longing to transform into a Chia Pet. If only we could water ourselves in the shower to stimulate our follicles resulting in a new head of hair in just a couple of weeks… but alas, that is an on demand request that even Silicon Valley has yet to master.
I myself have been a victim of the dreaded shed. I started getting highlights at 14, bleached it at 16, had it chemically straightened at 17, dyed it black at 19, and lifted it to light brown at 22. My weapons of mass destruction were (and still are) my curling iron and my blow-dryer and my scalp was ground zero. As if my own form of torture wasn’t enough on my innocent hair, I also had the pleasure of experiencing hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies, stress, hormonal changes, and environmental conditions.
However, hope is not lost! Before you go back to reapplying the Rogaine or poppin’ Biotin tablets like they’re beer nuts, I have two of my most successful alternative methods I’d like you to try:
#1: Viviscal
This magical little tablet promotes existing hair growth from within and it is now the #1 selling hair growth supplement in the US. It’s 100% drug free and delivers essential nutrients that wake up your follicles. The three most active ingredients are AminoMar, Acerola Cherry, and Horsetail. AminoMar is a marine protein, which is comprised of a proprietary blend of shark and mollusk powder.
Studies have shown that it provides essential proteins needed to nourish thinning hair and promote existing hair growth. Acerola Cherry is one of the highest natural sources for Vitamin C and with its high antioxidant properties, it helps to improve the health of the fair follicle. Horsetail extract is an organic form of silica that increases the strength of hair and is said to revitalize lifeless hair. However, horsetail also contains chromium, so it’s important to stop any other chromium containing supplement while taking Viviscal in order to avoid chromium poisoning. (None of this is FDA approved)
#2: Castor Oil
Castor oil works on nourishing the scalp and strengthening the roots with the help of its unusually high content of ricinoleic acid and omega-6 essential fatty acids. By massaging these nutrients into your scalp you accelerate blood circulation, hence increasing hair growth. I achieve the best results when I apply the castor oil before bed and leave it protected under a shower cap overnight. Not only will you be stimulating hair growth, but you’ll wake up with silky soft hair and improved split ends. With the added moisture from the oil along with its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties, you will also be flake free! (Works on lashes too)
#3: Pumpkin Seed Oil (for men)
Pumpkin Seed Oil is rich in nutrients such as zinc, manganese, unsaturated fatty acid, vitamin E and much more that are so important when it comes to hair health. Pumpkin Seed Oil deals with a specific hormone found in males known as DHT. Although this hormone has a variety of functions such as regulating your sex hormones it has also been linked to hair loss. DHT is made when an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase runs into testosterone. Therefore, DHT is a form of testosterone. Men with elevated levels of DHT experience an increase in bald spots and hair loss. Thankfully a supplement has been found to significantly decrease the production of DHT, and that is Pumpkin Seed Oil! What makes pumpkin Seed Oil so great is that it is able to inhibit the 5-alpha reductase from attaching to the testosterone creating decrease in DHT. This means LESS hair loss. Pumpkin Seed Oil can be applied topically or taken orally to receive its benefits.
#4: Natural Hair Products
I've never been one for natural hair care products and trust me, I have tried everything under the sun. That au natural trend had my hair feeling greasy, stringy, sticky and/or dry. I personally don't understand the coconut oil craze as it sits on top of my tresses as if I haven't showered in weeks. Since I'm not into rocking those greasy dirty post Burning Man hair vibes, I needed to find an alternative. In walked Virtue - the only natural hair care line that actually does something beneficial. Their products are made with human keratin and my hair has never felt so strong, soft, voluminous, vibrant or healthy! If you are looking for a natural shampoo and conditioner go with Virtue.
#5: Healthy hair comes from food too
Eating a wholesome, healthy and nutritious diet is the best way to achieve optimal hair health. Your hair grows from the inside out so why not feed your hair with the nutrients it needs. Below are 5 things to incorporate into your diet to keep your hair healthy and strong.
1. Collagen - a natural amino acid and the most abundant protein in our body that is responsible for maintaining youthful hair and skin (I love Vital Proteins Collagen).
2. Bone Broth - great for the strength and integrity of your hair (Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Protein is where it's at, or Owl Venice Bone Broth creations).
3. Liver - contains nutrients that are essential for optimal hair health including Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Iron and Zinc.
4. Omegas - omegas are in charge of keeping your hair vibrant and can be found in foods such as anchovies, sardines and wild caught fish.
5. High Quality Fats - best for creating glossy and luminous hair. Some excellent options are olive oil and avocado.
Yours in Health,
Vanessa
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