What is "Good Hair" anyway?

When we use the words “Good hair”, what immediately comes to mind?

Straight hair that hits the hips, big bountiful curls, or perhaps it’s the now somewhat iconic 2009 documentary of the name by Chris Rock

In creating The Steam Bar, we delved into the concept of what it means to many of you. One consistent aspect that stood out was the aspiration for healthy hair as a fundamental element in reaching your unique long-term "Good Hair" objectives. Beauty is diverse and tailored to each individual's perspective.

Understanding how to maintain healthy hair can be complex and bewildering. To assist you on your path to hair wellness, here are some essential factors to consider.

 Beneath the Surface – What's Inside Matters
The connection between internal health and external appearance, particularly in terms of nutrition, is crucial.

Hair loss can be linked to a diet lacking essential nutrients such as Vitamins B12, Vitamin B5 (which you can find in our Scalp Shampoo)  and D, Biotin, Riboflavin, and Iron.

For instance, eggs provide protein and Biotin, essential for healthy hair. Berries are rich in Vitamin C, necessary for collagen production to strengthen hair and prevent breakage, aiding in hair growth.

Spinach, a nutrient-rich green, contains folate, iron, and Vitamins A and C, vital for promoting hair growth. Additionally, Omega-rich fish like salmon, herring, and mackerel offer nutrients that support hair growth.

If you’re not sure about how to establish your nutritional needs or are at a particular point in your life where you need some guidance working with a qualified nutritionist, such as Lola Ross who specialises in nutrition for beauty and healthy ageing is a great starting point to evaluate any deficiencies you may have that may be hindering your progress to hair health.

 Surveying the Scalp Environment
If you're worried about hair breakage or loss and have tried numerous over-the-counter products like serums, creams, and shampoos, it's time to pause. While improper styling practices can lead to breakage (we'll address that later), hair loss can stem from various factors such as autoimmune conditions, genetics, or hormonal shifts. In our Sanctuary, we provide brief scalp assessments to understand your scalp's needs. However, we always recommend visiting a certified Trichologist for a comprehensive analysis of your scalp and overall hair health. Trichologists like the experienced professional Stephanie Sey focus on empowering and educating individuals about hair health.

 Use it don’t abuse it 

Improper styling practice are one of the most common reasons that hair health is compromised. We’re talking about excessive heat (temperature and frequency), braiding styles that are too tight, misapplication of chemical processing through relaxing or dying and being a bit too heavy handed when it comes to brushing and combing your hair. All of these things when done over period of times can considerable damage the hair follicle so we urge you to be considered in your approach to how you honour your crown. Instead of DIY’ing when it comes to your relaxer or dye, visit a qualified professional to administer the service, if you heat style don’t dial up to the highest temperature thinking this will leave you with the desired look in the fastest time - it may do, bit is it worth the longterm loss?

And when it comes to was day, take your time with that detangling, see this as moment of self appreciation for the locks that sprout from your crown and treat them with the care they deserve.