How to Brighten Up Dull Hair


Healthy and bright hair of a woman subconsciously send out signals that she is fertile and in her sexual prime. We all know that in mammals, to procreate, physical attractiveness plays a major role in partner selection. In simpler words, you will be rated higher in terms of your sexual appeal if your hair appears lustrous. According to a survey, 74% men are likely to notice the hair as the first thing about a woman's appearance. Imagine, how a subtle tweak to your appearance can accentuate your beauty! In a bid to get that effect, we all end up using too many products on our hair that over time make our hair look dull and then we wonder, why is it happening? It is product buildup. However, you can get rid of these traces of chemicals in your hair and make them look vibrant again. In fact, long exposure to the sun, living in dry climates and prolonged exposure to air-conditioned environs or dehumidifiers can also steal your hair's sheen. Even if you are not trying to impress the opposite sex, you do need to take proper care of your hair to avoid looking like a hobo when you see yourself in the mirror. Just follow these simple remedies but, before we proceed, ensure that you have washed your hair well with a clarifying shampoo. This will intensify the effect of these hair elixirs.

Tips to Brighten Up Dull Hair

Vinegar or Vodka!
Can't find a good clarifying shampoo? Well, dilute half a cup of vinegar or vodka in a mug of water and use it as the last rinse after you have washed off the shampoo from your hair. You can use this treatment 2 to 3 times a month. Do not overdo it else your hair will feel dry and hard. Vinegar and vodka, both ingredients are an effective way of removing product buildup on hair. Your hair will look shinier than ever before.

Lemon Juice
If you are a blonde, give a twist to the above routine and add a dash of lemon juice instead. Dilute the juice of two lemons in a mug of water and use it as the last rinse to wash your hair. The citric acid in the lemon juice cleans hair, gives them a citrus scent and also brightens the color as it is known to fade hair in the sun. This will only naturally lighten your hair by a shade or two when you expose your hair to the sun. You can substitute plain water with herbal chamomile tea. Use a wide-toothed comb to evenly distribute the juice. It may also give natural light streaks to your hair.

Baking Soda
This often used culinary ingredient is a double-duty product that can also act as a scrub for your skin and hair! Mix a cup of baking soda with some water to form a thick paste and apply evenly on hair. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with cold water. Don't have the time? Just mix a tablespoon with your shampoo and wash! It is a good method to add sheen and bounce to hair as it also removes buildup.

Always Condition
Never forget to condition your hair after shampooing. It seals the moisture in the hair and makes them appear whole, reflecting shine. If you skip your conditioner due to oily hair, I have a brilliant solution for you. Next time you are in the bath, apply shampoo only to the roots of your hair while applying conditioner to the shaft. You hair won't feel sticky. Often the natural oils secreted by the scalp do not reach the ends, leaving them dehydrated and malnourished. This method will ensure that your hair is in condition from root to tip and also remain clean.

Hot Oil Treatment
Your hair needs moisture too, just like your skin, to keep the hair cuticle smooth. Else, dryness can cause damage and a list of hair problems. One of the ancient methods was the hot oil treatment. Indian women are known for their thick, shiny and luscious black hair. Well, their beauty secret is to use coconut oil and castor oil that was left in the sun for hours to heat up. They apply the oil along the shaft of the hair and massage the scalp thoroughly. After a couple of hours, the hair is washed using henna or shikakai powder. You can use shampoo. Repeat this treatment weekly for optimum results.

Avocado and Yogurt
While the above methods repair the damage caused by chemicals in hair products, they may also steal its natural moisture balance. To restore your hair's health and repair cuticle damage, mash one avocado and add some yogurt to it. Apply this thick, rich and nourishing blend to your hair. Use a plastic wrap to cover your hair and leave it on your hair for about an hour. Wash it off with cold water. You can also substitute yogurt with mayo.

Air Dry
Are you guilty of using your hair dryer often? Well, it may be the reason your hair has lost its sheen. Excess exposure to heat can rob the hair of its natural oils, making them appear parched. One of the secrets of having bright hair is to let them air dry. In fact, the Olsen twins air dry their hair all the time! No wonder they have such a flawless sense of style and always look so chic and trendy. Start air drying your hair and you will thank yourself 10 years down the line. Never brush your hair when wet.

Here is one more pointer. When you are commuting, especially on a bike, make a tight bun and cover your hair with a scarf. This will prevent hair shaft damage due to harmful rays of the sun, dust, pollution and the wind. Also, buy a hydrating shampoo or serum, that is preferably sulfate-free, and use it alternatively with your regular shampoo. I have been told that silver shampoos work well too, to revive hair. The volume of hair products you use should not exceed the size of a sugar cube! Using these tips can also add vivaciousness to your appearance. Try them out and don't be surprised if you get men to notice you more than usual. Undoubtedly, your inner beauty is what will keep the relationship alive but bright hair may just become your secret to scoring more dates.

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