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Minimizing Chlorine Damage on Hair - Keep Swimming

Minimizing Chlorine Damage on Hair

Minimizing Chlorine Damage on Hair - Keep SwimmingDuring the summer months, there are few things more relaxing than spending a day in the pool. Whether you’re taking advantage of the full-body workout that swimming provides, or simply spending the day lounging on a float, you will want to take some precautions to ensure that your hair remains shiny and healthy.

One of the primary culprits of summer hair damage is the chlorine that is used as a disinfectant in pools. The chemical is necessary to keep the pool clean and free of harmful bacteria, but it can also strip moisture from your hair and scalp. While occasional exposure to chlorine won’t do any permanent damage to your hair, you are more likely to experience issues if you swim frequently. Hair that is dry, fine, or has been color-treated, permed, or relaxed is much more likely to suffer damage. Luckily, there are steps that you can take to prepare your locks for a summer full of fun.

One of the most important things that you can do before getting into the pool is to soak your hair with clean tap water. Your hair behaves similarly to a sponge, and once saturated it will be less likely to absorb chlorine. You may also consider applying a silicone-based hair serum or a dollop of coconut-oil to hold in the moisture and repel the chlorinated water. Silicone swim caps are lightweight, breathable, and will also help to decrease your exposure.

Once out of the pool, rinse your hair thoroughly with clean water to remove as much chlorine as possible. As soon as you can, shampoo and condition your hair and be sure to rinse with cool water. If you are a very frequent swimmer, consider purchasing a specialty shampoo designed for chlorine removal. Finally, use a quality leave-in conditioning treatment to restore the moisture and protein that have been removed.

If your hair is frizzy and straw-like or your scalp is dry and itchy, is it’s likely that you are already seeing signs of chlorine damage. The first step is to remove the chemical build-up in your hair. There are plenty of clarifying shampoos and specialty products on the market today. If you prefer a more natural approach, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water and rinse through your hair. As an alternative, you can mix one-part apple cider vinegar with four-parts of water. You can tell it’s working if your hair feels slimy while you are rinsing it. After clarifying, use a deep conditioner and a leave-in treatment. For serious damage, consult your hairstylist for professional treatment and a fresh cut.

Keep Swimming

Caring for Your Shaved or Bald Head

Caring for Your Naked Head caring for your naked head

When you have a bald or shaven head, it can be tempting to leave your scalp alone. However, it is extremely important that you take care of it. Here are some tips for you:

Wash it. Even though your hair is bald, your scalp will still produce oils and become a magnet for dirt. In turn, this can clog your pores and stunt hair growth. You can easily prevent these issues by using a shampoo. If you have dandruff, use a dandruff shampoo. Scalp conditions like seborrheic dermatitis can be treated by spraying your hair with Apple Cider Vinegar mixed with water before washing your hair. Mix 1-part Apple Cider vinegar with 2 parts water. Please check to make sure you are not allergic to the mixture. 

Massage it. If you are trying to regrow your hair, consider doing scalp massages. They can increase the blood flow to your scalp and promote hair growth. Do scalp massages a few times a week, especially when you wash your hair. This way, you can do it all in one shot! 

Moisturize it. Who has time for dry scalp and/or dandruff flakes? Me neither! Apply a good moisturizer to your scalp; this can include a conditioner. Your scalp is more prone to dryness, because it is exposed to the elements, especially in the cooler months.

Use Sunscreen. Like your skin, your scalp needs protection from the UV rays of the sun. Before you head outside, apply sunscreen to your scalp to help prevent damage. Another alternative to sunscreen is hats and scarves. This way you can cover your scalp and look stylish doing it! 

Shave it. If you want to keep your hair shaved, there are a few things to remember. Before applying shaving cream or soap, wet your hair and brush it against the direction it grows. Another alternative to shaving cream is hair conditioner. It’s thick, moisturizing, and can help provide a smoother shave. Be sure your razor is not dull or rusty. Shave in the direction the hair grows, and try not to apply too much pressure. 

Wearing a shaven or bald head does require some maintenance, including washing, massaging, moisturizing, protecting, and shaving it, but it will ensure that your scalp is healthy and looks great!

 

Solutions for Hair Loss

At Apollo Hair Replacement of Dallas / Fort Worth, we take pride in being able to offer you both surgical and non-surgical hair loss solutions. By introducing new and innovative technologies, we can provide our clients with the widest array of hair loss solutions.

We understand what it's like to be frustrated in the search for answers. At Apollo of Dallas / Fort Worth that frustration ends! We strive not only to solve your hair loss problem, but to provide the most positive, comfortable, and confidential service in the hair replacement industry.

Call us now for a FREE consultation! Get your life back!

REPORT: Efficacy of Treatments for Female Pattern Hair Loss

REPORT: Efficacy of Treatments Compared for Female Pattern Hair LossEfficacy of Treatment Compared for Female Hair Loss

As of July 2015, there have been no less than 47 reported studies on several popular topical treatments for female pattern hair loss (FPHL) that included approximately 5300 women ranging in age from 27 to 57. Within these studies, there were 3 small sub-studies on a topical treatment used for male hair loss. No age was provided on the ages of the 231 male participants. Twenty-one of the studies were viewed as bias-free, meaning that there were no outside influences, and 26 studies were financed by pharmaceutical firms which were viewed as having a moderate risk of being biased.

Each participant provided information about family history of hair loss. Additional pre-study information was collected on whether a person was pre or post-menopausal, how the impact of thinning hair affected their self-confidence, discomfort, emotional stress, and quality of life. In those cases where hair regrowth or improved density was noticed, the participants reported an improvement in their self-confidence and quality of life.

CATEGORIES OF STUDIES:


Minoxidil Compared to a Placebo:
In these studies twice as many women experienced moderate regrowth with the minoxidil than with the placebo. The mild side effects described by both group participants were: dermatitis, skin irritation, and itching scalp.

Minoxidil 2% Compared to Minoxidil 5%:
The results of these studies indicated that while there was an increase in hair regrowth, there were no significant benefits gained from the group using the higher concentration of minoxidil from the group using the lower concentration. The same mild side effects of dermatitis, skin irritation and itching scalp were reported by both female groups.

Finasteride Compared to a Placebo:
Three studies on the use of the male topical treatment, finasteride, compared to a placebo showed the same level of improvement. The mild side effects identified by both groups were the same, but the studies did not describe those comments.

Laser Comb Therapy Compared to Sham Therapy:
The results of these two studies revealed that both groups saw a healthy increase in hair regrowth. There were no side effects reported by either group.

FPHL is the most common hair problem for women, occurring most often at the front and over the top of the head. Topical hair treatments are similar to other health care routines; people must continue their routines in order to retain the benefits. Minoxidil is not recommended for lactating or pregnant women.

Research Links Hair Loss to Styling

REPORT: Research Links Hair Loss to Styling

A strong association has been established between certain hairstyles, some of which are popular among African-Americans, and a form of baldness. Known as traction alopecia, this variety of gradual hair loss is caused by damage to the follicle that itself results from excessive or prolonged stress on the root. Significantly, one in three African-American women suffer from this condition.

The association between hairstyling and hair loss was found by researchers at the famed Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Based on a review of 19 separate studies, the analysis was published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology and may help educate dermatologists about the damaging effects of certain hairstyles.

One dermatologist involved in the project noted that while a person's hair can be a source of self-esteem, attempts to improve one's image with a particular style can have the opposite effect over time. Such hairdos as tight ponytails, braids and buns can in the long run have disastrous physical and psychological consequences, and women need to be aware of both the risks and the alternatives. 

The analysis categorized hair practices into those producing a low, moderate and high risk of tension alopecia. The risk was based on the degree of stress placed on the follicle from physical tension, heat and the application of chemicals used to achieve a particular style. Low-risk styles included loose buns or wearing the hair down. High-risk styles included dreadlocks, weaves and extensions, all of which can be even more harmful when applied to hair that has been straightened by chemicals. The same styles may create only a moderate risk if they are not chemically treated. Hair damage is also possible if extensions are affixed directly to the scalp and the glue is then removed.

More traditional hairstyling techniques, such as thermal straightening, blow drying and the use of wigs, can also lead to hair loss. Alternatively, untreated hair is more durable and can thus be pulled and brushed without a significant risk of traction alopecia. 

In their report, the researchers recommended a reduction in the use of "high-tension" hairdos or at least limitations in their time of use. It was suggested that braids be worn for no longer than three months and weaves and extensions be removed after six to eight weeks. In noting that many hairstyles are difficult to abandon, the researchers concluded that dermatologists use moderation when trying to do what is best for their patients.
 

Solutions for Hair Loss

At Apollo Hair Replacement of Dallas / Fort Worth, we take pride in being able to offer you both surgical and non-surgical hair loss solutions. By introducing new and innovative technologies, we can provide our clients with the widest array of hair loss solutions.

We understand what it's like to be frustrated in the search for answers. At Apollo of Dallas / Fort Worth that frustration ends! We strive not only to solve your hair loss problem, but to provide the most positive, comfortable, and confidential service in the hair replacement industry.

Call us now for a FREE consultation! Get your life back!

Get Beachy Wavy Hair without Getting Near the Sand

Get Beachy Wavy Hair without Getting Near the Sand
Have you ever wondered why you usually do not have a bad hair day at the beach? In diluted amounts, salt water can be beneficial to your scalp and hair. When a few moisturizers are added, you have an inexpensive salt spray that will make people think you just returned from Florida.

Sea-Salt Spray Ingredients

  • 1 cup warm water – not boiling
  • 1 Tbsp sea salt: This adds a texture to your spray. You do not have to worry about using sea salt. While it is more concentrated in ocean water and can cause damage to your hair, it is used sparingly in this recipe. There are also enough moisturizing ingredients to keep your hair safe.
  • 1 tsp Epsom salt : You are not getting a double dose of salt since Epsom salt is not a true salt. It is magnesium in a crystallized form. Magnesium is healthy for your hair and adds conditioning and volume.
  • 1 Tbsp organic coconut oil: This oil is one of the best moisturizers and conditioners for your hair. It also helps bind the other ingredients and makes them stick to your hair for best absorption.
  • 1 Tbsp aloe vera gel: The ancient Egyptians used aloes as a moisturizer for their skin and hair in the harsh desert climate. Not only does aloe vera gel condition hair, but it can keep dandruff from building up on your scalp. It also helps your hair keep a curl or style.
  • 5 drops essential oil, optional : Add a fresh citrus oil to your salt spray for a sweet smell.
  • If you have blonde hair and want to add a few sun-kissed highlights to your hair, then you can add a teaspoon of pure lemon juice to this recipe (without the essential oil). Lemon juice works naturally with the sun to give you a lighter touch of blonde without the bleach.

To Make Salt Spray

  1. Gently heat water on the stove until it is hot, but not boiling.
  2. Add Epsom salt and sea salt and stir until it dissolved.
  3. Next, add the coconut oil in and stir until it completely melts.
  4. Stir in the aloe vera gel and add your essential oil drops (if you choose).
  5. Mix everything up well and store in a spray bottle.

How To Use Your Salt Spray

  1. Dampen your hair with plain water then spray your hair with salt spray.
  2. Work it all through your hair and on the scalp.
  3. Since there are a lot of heavy moisturizers in this recipe, you may want to use it lightly if you have oily hair.


With a few ingredients from your pantry, you can enjoy soft, luxurious beach hair without even being on the beach!

Solutions for Hair Loss

At Apollo Hair Replacement of Dallas / Fort Worth, we take pride in being able to offer you both surgical and non-surgical hair loss solutions. By introducing new and innovative technologies, we can provide our clients with the widest array of hair loss solutions.

We understand what it's like to be frustrated in the search for answers. At Apollo of Dallas / Fort Worth that frustration ends! We strive not only to solve your hair loss problem, but to provide the most positive, comfortable, and confidential service in the hair replacement industry.

Call us now for a FREE consultation! Get your life back!

Sunscreen for My Hair? Seriously?

Sunscreen for Your HairIt's common knowledge that sunscreen is important for protecting the skin against sun damage, especially in summer. However, most people don't think about the sun's effect on the hair and scalp. Although not as severe as damage to the skin, the sun's rays can have a huge impact on your hair's health.

Your hair is made of dead cells, so it doesn't need SPF like your skin does, but the sun does cause damage and distress to the hair by drying it out, fading the color, and accelerating hair loss. Hair can also be damaged by wind, chlorination from pools, and salt water from the ocean. Dyed hair will usually have the most visible damage and fading, but even uncolored hair can suffer from serious sun damage.

Sunscreen for your skin isn't effective in preventing damage to hair. It would be difficult or impossible to thoroughly cover your hair in normal sunscreen, and your hair would feel extremely oily. Fortunately, there are a variety of sunscreens available that are specifically made for hair. These sunscreens prevent moisture loss and bleaching from the sun. Some come in a spray form that you can spray on your hair right before you're exposed to the sun, and others are similar to conditioners or hair masks that you treat your hair with once or twice a week.

In addition to hair damage, many people also forget that the sun can harm the scalp. Although most of the scalp is covered with hair, the exposed areas, like the hair part, can be severely burned and even develop melanoma. This can be especially harmful for people who have hair loss, as more of the scalp is exposed to the sun. You could apply sunscreen for skin onto the exposed areas of your scalp, but it could be difficult to thoroughly apply it without getting sunscreen all over the roots of your hair. Your best option to protect your scalp is just to wear a hat in the sun. It will cover your entire scalp and completely prevent sun damage.

It's great to enjoy time outside during the warmer months of the year, but protecting your hair and skin should always be a priority. Even spending just a few minutes in the bright sun can damage your hair. Next time you're planning on going out in the sun, consider using hair sunscreen or a hat for protection.

Seriously Simple Summer Hair

Summer Hair Care DallasSummer Hair Made Simple
With the summer months fast approaching, most people are spending
more time in the sun and in the pool. With the hot weather, beach trips,
and summer parties, it can be easy to let your hair become dry and damaged. However, with some easy tricks, you can keep your hair
healthy and happy during summer.

Condition Often
Deep conditioning your hair once a week or applying apple cider vinegar diluted with water is one of the best ways to keep it healthy after exposure to sunlight.

Wash Less Frequently
Shampooing your hair every day strips your hair of its natural oils and
dries it out. Just rinse with water after going to the beach or the pool to prevent damage.

Use Hair Sunscreen
Hair sunscreen prevents your hair from fading or drying out from sun damage. You can use a spray sunscreen or a long-lasting, deep conditioning sunscreen.

Keep Your Hair Loose
Pulling your hair into a tight ponytail or bun can pull, tear, and break your hair, especially if it's brittle from sun damage. Instead, try a loose braid or ponytail.

Wear a Hat
Wearing a hat is the best way to protect your scalp, neck, and ears from sun damage. It can also help your scalp and hair stay moisturized.

Don't Use Products Everyday
Summer is the best time to keep a natural look for your hair. Using too many chemical-filled products can make your hair weak and brittle. Avoid products for at least a few days a week, or use all-natural products.

Minimize Heat Styling
Using heat on your hair causes damage during all seasons, but in summer, your hair is already being exposed to hot temperatures in the outside air. Avoid using heat more than once or twice a week to keep hair healthy.

Use a Comb Instead of a Brush
If your hair is dry or brittle from sun exposure, using a brush, especially on wet hair, can cause breakage and split ends. Use a wide-toothed comb instead to minimize damage.

Protect Your Color
Color-treated hair can easily become noticeably damaged from sunlight and from chlorine in pools. Avoid exposing your hair to chlorinated water as much as possible, and use a conditioner for color-treated hair.

Avoid Swimmer's Hair
If you have blonde or color-treated hair, wet your hair before entering a pool to reduce the amount of chlorine your hair absorbs. You can also rinse your hair with apple cider vinegar diluted with water after swimming.

The Benefits of Scalp Massage

Hair Massage DallasThere is nothing quite like a massage to relax sore and tired muscles. There is just something about it that makes you feel rejuvenated. The whole body benefits from a massage.

One area that is often overlooked is the scalp. The scalp and forehead have a complicated network of blood vessels and nerves. When they are stressed, you can suffer from stress headaches and even hair loss.

A scalp massage feels great and is easy to do. Just rub and add gentle pressure with your fingertips, avoiding using your nails. Another great aspect of scalp massage is that you can do it on yourself and get the same benefits.

Increases Scalp Circulation
When you gently massage your scalp, you improve blood circulation in your face and head. Your hair will benefit from more circulation to its roots. You can also use carrier oils such as olive or almond oil in your scalp massage. These moisturizing oils will fight dandruff and may prevent it from coming back to your scalp.

Relieves Headaches
There are many headaches that are caused by tension. Scalp massage may help relieve the tension and alleviate a headache. If you are doing it for yourself, concentrate on massaging near the hairline at the base of the skull. This is often the place that builds up the most tension. You can also massage your temples and forehead to relieve some of the stress. If you suffer from migraine headaches, scalp massage may be a form of relief.

Relaxes Your Whole Body
When you massage your scalp, you get the feeling of contentment and relaxation. Consider massaging your face, also. A relaxed face also diminishes the looks of fine line and wrinkles. The more often you practice it, the more it will help you.

No matter if you do a scalp massage on yourself or someone else, it is a relaxing way to melt away stress and soothe aching headaches. You can double your pleasure if you add a little carrier oil that has been scented with an essential oil such as lavender. Not only will massage do you good, but it will double as an aromatherapy session.

Is Your Hair Dry or Damaged?

Dry Damaged HairWhile dry and damaged hair can look alike to the casual observer, both types have important differences. Learn how to spot dry or damaged hair and how to deal with it by using these tips.

To figure out if you have dry or damaged hair, take one strand of wet hair, pluck it gently, and pull it at either end. If it doesn’t stretch or only flexes a bit and breaks, it lacks protein and is damaged. If it stretches but doesn’t return to its normal state, it’s most likely only dry (even though you’re performing the test on wet hair). Healthy hair will stretch one-third of its length before bouncing back to its regular state.

Obvious signs of damaged hair like hair loss and bald patches are hard to miss. However, even tasks that are necessary for daily hygiene such as shampooing, brushing and combing aren’t kind to our crowning glory. In those scenarios, damaged hair suffers from broken protein bonds. Other common causes include excessive treatments like straightening, styling or coloring, but environmental factors can cause damage as well. All these factors can weaken the hair shaft and cause hair to snap or break.

Professionals often advise customers to cut damaged hair off. However, you can make it look healthy and strong again by giving it lots of protein. This substance seals the damage and makes hair smoother.

By definition, dry hair lacks moisture, but its protein bonds remain. Changes in temperature, hormones, medications and use of heat-styling appliances can cause loss of moisture. Also, when your scalp doesn’t produce enough oil, it leads to dry hair.

Proper conditioning and moisturizing treatments will fix that problem. Make sure your care ritual includes deep-conditioning, sealer and hot oil treatments. Avoid products with silicones, however. While marketed to improve shine, they only coat the hair without actually fixing the problem. Additionally, they can leave a residue that can cause dullness.

Here are some other things you can do for dry hair: If you have curls, protect them by sleeping on a satin pillowcase, or use a satin scarf. Additionally, avoid blow-drying on high heat.

Keep in mind that hair changes over time, so make sure to check its condition regularly. That way, you can keep adjusting your ritual to assure you’re using the right products and techniques.