Like many things, there isn\u2019t a simple, straightforward answer to this question. A few things can actually cause dull hair. This includes using hot styling tools on very high heat and overprocessing the hair with too many chemicals\u2014both of which can damage the hair.<\/p>
\u201cUsing the wrong product or too much of a product can cause issues as well, especially if you fail to clarify the hair periodically to remove buildup,\u201d adds Rivera.<\/p>
Rivera also highlights fine hair as the hair type that\u2019s most susceptible to becoming dull and fragile. Unlike other hair types\u2014which boasts hair shafts that consist of the cortex, the cuticle, and the medulla\u2014fine hair has thinner hair strands than most due to the absence of the medulla in its hair shafts.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dull hair is easy to spot. When you notice your hair has lost its luster and shine, it\u2019s officially time to beautify your hair routine. <\/p>
\u201cThe hair\u2019s color can also look brassy for blondes and those with highlights, or mousey and flat for those with darker hair tones,\u201d shares Rivera, adding that poor diet and certain medications can also contribute to lifeless locks.<\/p>
The good news? Dull hair is reversible.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Simply put, you can fix dull hair with the help of clarifying treatments. <\/p>
Clarifying treatments, courtesy of specialty shampoos<\/a>, help to unclog the hair follicles, which have likely been exposed to hard water residue, sun exposure, pollution, and product buildup.<\/p> Prefer an at-home remedy? Rivera recommends using a paste consisting of baking soda and water. How to use: Combine these two ingredients and massage the paste from the scalp to the ends. Let it sit for five minutes before rinsing off. Use this makeshift hair mask regularly for optimal results.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\n The next time you need to stock up on shampoo, refer back to Rivera\u2019s nugget of haircare wisdom: \u201cAvoid anything that is harsh on the scalp.\u201d This includes ingredients like sulfates<\/a>, parabens, and other preservatives that work to increase the product\u2019s longevity. These ingredients work to keep its product lively makeup\u2014not your hair.<\/p> Shampoo aside, hair products that are heavy in sodium chloride (\u201cit\u2019s basically salt,\u201d according to Rivera) and sodium lauryl sulfate, a thickening agent, should also be avoided whenever possible due to their harsh effect on hair.<\/p><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhich haircare ingredients should you be avoiding?<\/h2><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why you should be using a sulfate-free shampoo<\/h3><\/p>\n\n\n\n