I'm currently growing out my hair, but I struggle with thick, curly hair and a lot of volume.
The rainy season is particularly challenging, so every year, as soon as it begins, I get a special treatment at the hair salon.
Well, when I arrived at the salon, the hairdresser asked,
"Have you ever had a hair quality improvement treatment?"
I thought I had tried all sorts of treatments before, so I answered yes, but I had no idea that this hair quality treatment would end up impressing me so much.
...As I've written, it was so good that I looked up the treatment I received this time on the internet.
It's a type called acid-heat treatment, which uses acidic ingredients to focus on the internal structure of the hair, and applies heat to maximise the effect.
Its effects and features include damage repair, shine and smoothness, frizz prevention, and long-lasting results.
Since I've had this special care at the salon, I'll also make efforts in my daily life to grow beautiful hair.
Five tips for growing healthy hair quickly:
1. Eat a well-balanced diet
Protein, vitamins (especially B vitamins and vitamin E), zinc, and iron are important for hair growth. Actively consume fish, nuts, eggs, and dark green vegetables.
2. Scalp massage
Promoting blood circulation in the scalp makes it easier for nutrients to reach the hair roots. Gently massaging with your fingertips during shampooing or before bed is effective.
3. Stress management
Stress can disrupt hormone balance and hinder hair growth. Incorporate moderate exercise and relaxation techniques to avoid stress build-up.
4. Prevent hair damage
Excessive use of hair dryers and straighteners, and strong chemical colouring or perms can damage hair. Try to avoid these and opt for air-drying or using a hair dryer on a low heat setting.
5. Use appropriate hair care products
It's important to use shampoos and conditioners suitable for your hair and scalp to maintain hair health. It's also good to incorporate hair oils and treatments with carefully selected ingredients.
Hair care diet for vegans:
Ensure adequate protein intake
Hair is mainly composed of a protein called keratin. In a vegan diet, protein can be obtained from legumes (tofu, lentils, chickpeas), nuts, seeds, whole grains, and vegetables (especially broccoli and spinach).
B vitamin intake
B vitamins are crucial for hair health. Particularly, vitamin B7 (biotin) and vitamin B12 aid hair growth. Biotin is found in nuts, seeds, spinach, and avocados. Vitamin B12 needs to be supplemented or obtained from fortified foods (vegan fortified cereals or yeast extract).
Iron intake
Iron deficiency can cause hair loss. Vegan sources of iron include spinach, kale, lentils, beans, fortified cereals, and pumpkin seeds. Consuming iron with vitamin C enhances its absorption.
Zinc intake
Zinc is essential for maintaining hair health. Obtain zinc from chickpeas, lentils, nuts (especially cashews), seeds, and whole grains.
Omega-3 fatty acid intake
Omega-3 fatty acids maintain scalp health and make hair supple. They are found in flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts, and oats.
Why is wakame good for hair?
In Japan, it is said that wakame is good for your hair, but do you know the reason?
Hair benefits of wakame:
1. Rich in minerals
- Iodine: Supports the production of thyroid hormones necessary for hair growth. It promotes metabolism and aids hair growth.
- Iron: Improves blood circulation, promoting nutrient supply to hair roots. It encourages healthy hair growth.
- Calcium: Increases hair strength and prevents hair from breaking or splitting.
2. Vitamins
- Vitamin A: Maintains scalp health and balances sebum production. A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair.
- Vitamin C: Aids collagen production, maintaining hair strength and elasticity.
- Vitamin E: Has antioxidant properties, preventing hair damage. It also promotes blood circulation, making it easier for nutrients to reach hair roots.
3. Dietary fibre
- Wakame is rich in dietary fibre, which improves the intestinal environment, enhancing nutrient absorption. A healthy internal environment supports healthy hair growth.
4. Antioxidant effect
- A component in wakame called fucoxanthin has strong antioxidant properties. This protects hair and scalp cells from oxidative stress, maintaining their health.
5. Moisturising effect
- Wakame's components help moisturise hair and prevent dryness. This keeps hair smooth and silky.
Making furikake (rice seasoning) with dried wakame is an easy way to incorporate wakame into your diet.
While wakame furikake is available in shops, I'm concerned about additives, and sometimes soy sauce containing wheat or bonito flakes are used, so I always make it myself. Plus, it's very easy!
I often have just onigiri (rice balls) for lunch, so I make wakame rice and shape it into onigiri.
Recipe : Wakame furikake
(Completely plant-based and gluten-free)