Hair Care ... Getting to the root of the problems

We tend to regard hair only as a reflection of our personal style, but it is a living, growing part of our body, and it's also a reflection of our internal health. Hair reflects internal changes -- sickness, nutrition and stress, over processing, and even over the counter cold medications. Hair is who, what, when, why and how we are.

There are two parts to your hair: the hair shaft, the hair bulb (the root). There are two parts to your hair cycle the period of rest, and the period of regeneration ( hair loss). Some hair loss is normal during this stage.  But not all hair loss should be ignored.

Issue: Excessive hair shedding ... Each individual strand of hair has its own cycle, growing for six to eight years, resting for a few months, and then shedding. About 5-10 percent of your hair is shedding at any one given time but many things can interrupt the cycle and cause more hairs to shed earlier, including stress, fever, weight loss (even 10 pounds) or low iron levels. If you're noticing more shedding than usual, examine your lifestyle to see what might have changed and/or consult your doctor for tests. Try NIOXIN® today. We carry the "try me", 30 day kits to get you started on your way to a thicker head of hair.

Issue: Hair that is dry and has lost its luster...
Oh, the things we do to our hair in the name of beauty, like daily blow-drying and using the flat iron. Try Air-drying your hair partially before blow drying, only using the flat iron on dry hair, and using a daily conditioner helps save your hair from losing that healthy luster & shine. Remember that hair with color is more prone to damage, so be extra cautious if you color, highlight, or multi dimensional coloring your hair. Try the Paul Mitchell Instant Moisture line. It HYDRATES AND REVIVES DRY HAIR; Moisturizes, Protects and Conditions – Instant Moisture Complex absorbs UV rays and provides superior conditioning, penetrating deep into the hair where it helps protect both the cuticle and cortex. Thickens and Repairs – Panthenol penetrates deep into the hair to add volume and increase body; panthenol also attaches to the surface to help repair damaged cuticle layers. Brilliant Shine and Reflection – Chamomile, henna, rosemary, aloe vera and jojoba combined with state-of-the-art conditioners help intensify shine.

Issue: Brittle or easily breaking hair...
Some hairstyles can actually affect the health of your hair's bulb. This happens a lot with hair extensions or ponytails pulled too tight, day after day. Do not brush your hair vigorously when wet, use a wide-tooth comb and comb through gently. If you see stress, brittle, or if your hair breaks easily, the less brushing, the better.  Dramatically strengthen hair up to 50%* with Paul Mitchell Strength. • Super Strong® Complex rebuilds hair’s internal structure • Prevents future damage and moisture loss • Restores strength and elasticity *Based on lab results using Super Strong® Daily Shampoo and Daily Conditioner; more dramatic strengthening can be achieved by incorporating the Super Strong® Treatment.

Issue: Split ends...
Split, or "dead" ends are the result of damaged hair. The hair splits apart because the outer layer (or cuticle) of the hair shaft has worn away. But the good news is, you can snip them right off, and immediately your hair will look healthier. Another trick is to keep your ends well-conditioned. Remember there is a difference between the function of cleansing and conditioning: Shampoo is for your scalp, and conditioner is for the shaft and ends. Ask us about "It's A 10"

Issue: Dandruff...
Dandruff can be hereditary. Daily shampooing is your first line of defense, but if the itchiness and flakes persist, try an anti-dandruff product. Try alternating the anti-dandruff product with regular shampoo until the dandruff clears up, and then switch back to your regular shampoo. Tea Tree Shampoo treats dandruff,treats seborrhea and other skin and scalp conditions, Soothes dry, itchy and irritated scalp and its Gentle formulation is safe for daily use.

Issue: An unexpected bald patch of hair...
You may have Alopecia Areata, which occurs when your immune system starts attacking the hair bulbs. It doesn't destroy it, but the bulb won't start to grow again until the attack is called off. According to the National Alopecia Areata Foundation, it affects five million people in the U.S. It can happen one time or recur with some frequency. The hair can grow back though -- it's not permanent damage. If you find a sudden bald spot, see your dermatologist. We suggest the NIOXIN products for this condition.  Excellent for all hair types, and safe for color treated hair.

Issue: Gray hair...
Some Dieticians believe eating foods rich in protein and B12, you can make your hair stronger; or that eating foods that contain vitamins B5 and B6 may help you hold onto your color and prevent graying. The unavoidable truth is that gray hair is genetic, and aside from coloring, you're stuck with it. Most people only have 5-7 hair cycles (remember, a cycle is 6 - 8 years) where the cells that surround the follicle and transfer pigment are working at their best. Contrary to popular belief, once a fiber is gray -- if you pluck it -- it will grow back in gray again. So if you like it, is’s sophisticated, if you don’t, color it. Get your Lunch Time hair color with PM Shines, a professional, demi-permanent hair color from Paul Mitchell that conditions as it colors. Addicted to Blonde, Red  Rocks, Beautiful Brunette or simply a clear glossing gives you an ultimate shine you can’t find anywhere else. PM SHINES® is all you need for hair color success and 'demi-licious' results. For a more “perminent” solution, Paul Mitchell® the color is a low ammonia, permanent cream hair color that can be used as a permanent, demi-permanent or semi-permanent hair color. Developed with a beeswax base and other natural conditioners, Paul Mitchell® the color provides long lasting, natural looking hair color, with outstanding shine and condition.

In general, dieticians, physicians, and common sense tell us that the habits that grow a healthy head of hair are the same habits that promote health in the rest of your body. Eat whole, unprocessed, nutritious foods. Get enough sleep, reduce stress, and drink plenty of water. See your stylist or barber on a regular basis to avoid “bad hair days” and use professional products that promote hair health.

At Larry's, We encourage Healthy Hair, not just healthy looking hair. See You soon! 703-491-HAIR (4247)