AIR POLLUTION EQUALS HAIR POLLUTION

Because hair is often unprotected, it’s very susceptible to air pollution damage. Soot, dirt, dust and gases can cause scalp irritation, dryness, breakage and even premature baldness. 

If you are using hair care products to create a certain hairstyle, those products can end up making your hair sticky or heavy. That means, all those serums, sprays and gels, might end up turning your crowning glory into a dust magnet. 

Today’s air is heavily loaded with dust, matter, lead, smoke, nickel, ammonia, arsenic and hydrocarbon which not only has adverse effects on our interior health but also affects our skin and hair. These problems get more serious in city areas or areas near industries. Some people are allergic to the dust, dirt and grime that makes up particulate matter, resulting in hair breakage and hair loss. Hair loss affects roughly more than 70% of the population and only increases in places where pollution is more prevalent.

PM2.5 refers to atmospheric particulate matter (PM) that have a diameter of less than 2.5 micrometers, which is about 3% the diameter of a human hair. Commonly written as PM2.5, particles in this category are so small that they can only be detected with an electron microscope. Since they are so small and light, fine particles tend to stay longer in the air than heavier particles. This increases the chances of humans and animals absorbing them into the bodies.

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HAIR FROM AIR POLLUTION

Here are four simple preventative measures that can help keep your hair healthy and protected from the dangers of air pollution.

• WEAR A HAT

Hats are not just for fashion! Covering your hair and scalp is a good way to protect it from the sun’s harmful UV rays and any airborne particles that could be toxic and harmful.

• HYDRATE

Staying hydrated is good for your hair, your skin and pretty much every aspect of your health. 

• ADJUST YOUR STYLING ROUTINE

Hair that has been exposed to excessive amounts of air pollution becomes damaged and brittle, making split ends and breakage more likely. Minimize the use of hair dryers, curling irons and straighteners. Refrain from using styling products and don’t put oils in your hair before heading out.

• DETOX YOUR HAIR

Give your hair a detox week. Use a chelating shampoo to help remove the toxic buildup. Normal shampoo simply removes dirt and oil from the surface of the hair, however chelating goes one step further and removes metals and minerals. 

We at Hairprint.Asia strongly recommend you test out our  Chelating Shampoo during your detox week, letting the shampoo sit 5 minutes before rinsing. Do NOT use any other hair products. If you notice that after using the Chelating Shampoo your hair feels sticky or oily, don’t worry, that means it is working.  Follow up with a second cleanse to help remove the excessive build up.