3 Tips for Healthier Hair - Start with a Simple Routine

3 Secret Tips for Healthier Hair

Helpful examples on hair products, minerals, and favorite hair foods.

Over the past decade or so I have noticed improvements in my hair quality, length, and thickness. The change seemed to parallel the time of my recovery from thyroid issues. During that time, I made a lot of changes to my health and as a result my hair started to improve.  Let me know if you want more information on this topic. For starters, I thought it best to share a simple framework, put into actionable steps, provided below.

Tip #1 - my morning routine

Increasing circulation is key to healthy hair. In the mornings I like to start off by massaging my scalp for 1 - 5 minutes (1 minute if I'm in a hurry and 5 minutes if I'm listening to a good podcast). Massaging with the finger tips increases blood flow to the scalp’s surface as well as to the hair follicles. The next exercise is I lightly lift my hair so the skin is ever so slightly raised. There is no pulling hair out, only gentle lifting the skin up about one-eighth of an inch.  I do this about 10-20 times and this also increases blood flow and circulation, stimulating the hair roots. Lastly, I will brush my hair with 50-100 strokes. Like the other two exercises, this third practice increases circulation, promotes blood flow to the roots and stimulates growth. In addition, these practices help distribute natural oils to nourish and protect the hair.

Tip #2 - nourish

Feeding the hair begins internally and here are some vital nutrients for hair growth and overall hair health. Find these nutrients in fresh fruits, vegetables, dark leafy greens, nuts & seeds, fermented foods, wild salmon and farm fresh dairy products - look for organic and non-gmo.  However, I do rely on whole food supplements, and a greens mineral powder is good to have on hand to toss a spoonful into one's water, juice, or smoothie.

Key nutrients for healthy hair: Omega Fatty Acids, Iron, Protein, Silica, Magnesium, Selenium, Zinc, Copper, Sulphur/MSM.  Watch my video on why seaweed is one of my favorite hair foods.

Tip #3 - detox

Detox is an internal and external issue. The effectiveness of nutrients entering our cells is dependent on the removal of the interference of toxins. Externally, toxins come through the environment, such as in water and air.  More in our reach of control, however, are the foods and liquids we consume and the products we use on our bodies.  Detoxing our kitchen and bathroom cupboards can be overwhelming, and my personal approach is to make small changes at a time, producing lifelong habits.  I try not to get down on myself when I'm not 100% toxin free, but rather, I make an effort to stay aware and look for achievable and affordable improvements.