Five Simple ways to long, lustrous, and healthy hair: Part 1

by Amina Wasi

Part II | Part III

Bismillah

We have all seen the hair commercials, where a woman confidently displays her long and lustrous hair which is literally bouncing off her shoulders as she walks. We have thought to ourselves, “I wish I had that hair!.” Well, ladies, wish no more! The hair you have always wanted can become a reality with some work and consistency. Here are five simple tips for maintaining your hair and achieving the locks you have always coveted.

The hair needs some love too!

Just as with other things in life, if you want to achieve something, you have to put in the work and effort. There is no magic pill that will transform your hair overnight into that of the woman you saw in the commercial. You have to dedicate some time to taking care of your hair and giving it some love and care. It is, in fact, a part of our faith to maintain ourselves in terms of hygiene and grooming. The Prophet Muhammad (sal Allaahu alayhi wasallam) stated that, “Whoever has hair should honor it.” (Abu Dawud) Thus, oiling, combing, and maintaining your hair, as well as other acts of cleanliness, all come under the general command of cleanliness that the shari’ah has stated. Therefore, with the right intention, taking care of your hair can be a means of gaining reward. 

It is not just about what you apply to your hair. It is also about diet. 

A diet which includes all the recommended vitamins, minerals and nutrients is a crucial aspect to achieving healthy and beautiful hair. Long and healthy hair is not just about what you apply to your hair, it is also about eating a balanced diet. Therefore, if you want to see positive and permanent changes to the health of your hair, adjusting your diet is key.

Protein – Hair is essentially made up of proteins. Integrate protein in your diet, as this is what it needs to grow.

Iron – Not getting enough iron can result in hair loss. You can incorporate iron in your diet by consuming lean meat. Vegetarians can find their source of iron in lentils, spinach, soybeans, and fortified cereals. The body, however, absorbs iron better from animal sources than plant sources.

Vitamin D – Although unclear, some studies indicate that Vitamin D plays a role in the hair cycle. You can include this in your diet by consuming fortified foods such as milk, orange juice, and cereals. Vitamins B, C, and E are equally important and any deficiency in these can result in hair loss.

Biotin – This vitamin proves to be good for your hair and scalp. Eating biotin rich food like eggs and nuts can help your hair.

Copper – This mineral should be a part of your diet. It is found in foods such as cashews, almonds, hazelnuts and lentils. Copper preserves the color of your hair and gives it a healthy appearance. 

To be continued

Be sure to check Part 2 for the 3rd and 4th ways to long, lustrous, and healthy hair inshaAllah

I'd love to hear your views on this topic. Please post in the comments section below!

Sources:

WebMD: Health and Medical Information from www.webmd.com
Live Strong: Diet and Nutrition from www.livestrong.com/diet-and-nutrition/
Hair care routine timeline by Farah Dukhai from www.dukhai.com

Posted in: Advice,Amina wasi,Beauty,Beauty Regime,care,hair