The adverse effects of pollution on hair go deeper than just surface damage. The harmful gases and abrasive dirt particles in the air can not only dehydrate your mane but also mess with the texture of your hair. And even though you might have a variety of protective scarfs and hats to save your hair from everyday pollution damage, it can never be completely avoided. So, how do you deal with it? With a proper hair care routine, of course.
Here are 5 tips to rejuvenate tired and dull hair after being exposed to pollution.
- 01. Start with a clarifying wash
- 02. Repair damage with a mask
- 03. Indulge in a hot oil treatment
- 04. Invest in a massage brush
- 05. Have a salon day
01. Start with a clarifying wash
Clarifying shampoos work by removing dirt and oil from your hair. They are formulated with potent ingredients that can eliminate grease on the scalp and remove pollution particles from your hair. So before you do anything to your pollution-damaged mane, give it a clarifying wash; we have the perfect pick for it. The Tresemme Botanique Detox and Restore Shampoo and Conditioner is formulated with ginseng and neem to help deep clean your mane and lend it shine and lustre. Neem is a popular antibacterial, and when paired with ginseng’s strengthening properties, can restore your hair back to its ideal health.
02. Repair damage with a mask
Once your hair is squeaky clean, you can move on to adding lost moisture and hydration to your mane. The Dove Intense Damage Repair Hair Mask is formulated with keratin repair actives to reinforce broken hair bonds caused due to harmful gases in the air. A single masking session will give you visibly smoother and more manageable tresses.
03. Indulge in a hot oil treatment
The harmful pollutants in the air can sometimes force your hair cuticles to open up, resulting in breakage and frizziness. A hot oil treatment can help seal these open cuticles with moisture and bring back the lively bounce in your hair. All you need to do is apply the Clinic Plus Non Sticky Nourishing Hair Oil all over your hair and scalp. Cover with a hot towel and keep for 2-3 hours. Wash off with a gentle cleanser and condition after.
04. Invest in a massage brush
All those hours your hair spent tied up in a bun while out and about in city pollution does a lot of damage. It cuts off fresh oxygen from the scalp and, due to stubborn knots, might discourage you from brushing out your hair. The result is Combing activates your sebaceous glands, which is responsible for producing your scalp's natural oil. Besides keeping the scalp and hair moisturised, it also helps maintain the pH balance on the scalp. So, invest in a good paddle brush and run it through your mane twice a day to kickstart the rejuvenation process and keep tangles at bay.
05. Have a salon day
Sometimes, pollution damage can be so extreme that you need professional intervention to help fix it. Opt for treatments that focus on damage repair and are relaxing in nature. Steer clear of treatments with a heating element to it as your hair is already in a vulnerable state and can lead to further damage.
Written by Sumona Bose on Feb 25, 2021
Sumona Bose is a writer, skincare junkie and a self-professed makeup connoisseur. Equipped with a Master's degree in Fashion Management and over 3 years of experience writing in the beauty and fashion space, her passion for learning new things has no bounds. Working closely with dermatologists, beauty excerpts, makeup artists and hairstylists, she brings you the best of all things beauty. From trending skincare ingredients to makeup looks that help you slay, she manages to bring something new (and vital!) to our readers every single time. Her hobbies include home workouts, watching foreign films and binge-watching makeover shows!