We may have well and truly entered February, but those 'New Year, New Me' vibes are still going strong and we're now certified gym junkies.
If you've been pumping iron a little extra over the past month to enhance your health and wellness, you may have started to notice your tresses suffer! Hello, sweaty, tangled, and prone to damaged hair! But fear not! With the proper haircare routine, you can keep your locks looking fabulous before, during, and after your workout sessions.
The Gym Factor: How your workout can harm your hair
Frequent workouts can lead to damage to hair due to several factors. Firstly, sweat produced during exercise contains salt and other minerals that can dry out the scalp and hair, leading to dehydration and brittleness. Additionally, the friction caused by repetitive movements, such as running or cycling, can cause hair strands to rub against clothing or accessories, resulting in breakage and split ends. Tight hairstyles, often used to keep hair out of the way during workouts, can also contribute to damage by pulling on the hair shaft and weakening the follicles over time. Furthermore, the constant washing and styling required to maintain cleanliness and appearance post-workout can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it prone to dryness and dullness. While exercise is beneficial for overall health, it's essential to implement a proper haircare routine to mitigate the potential damage caused by entering #beastmode
Want to hot girl walk, sans the damage? George is giving you all the juicy hairdresser-certified haircare tips to protect your locks from your new workout routine:
1. Pre-workout prep
Before hitting the gym or heading out for a run, it's essential to prep your hair properly. Start by brushing your hair to remove tangles and evenly distribute natural oils from roots to ends. If you have long hair, consider tying it up in a loose ponytail or bun to prevent excessive friction and tangling during your workout.
Pro Tip: Applying a lightweight hair mask like our Better Hair Days Mask can provide extra protection and hydration, nourishing your strands throughout your exercise routine.
2. Choose the right hairstyle
Selecting the appropriate hairstyle can significantly affect how your hair fares during your workout. Opt for hairstyles that keep your hair off your face and neck while providing adequate support and minimal pulling. Braids, buns, and ponytails are excellent for maintaining secure hair and preventing tangles.
Pro Tip:We know the sleek look is uber cute, but tight hair styles are a recipe for breakage! For even more protection, steer clear of rubber bands with metal clasps, which can cause breakage and damage your hair follicles.
3. Post-workout haircare routine
After completing your workout, cleaning and refreshing your hair is crucial to remove sweat, dirt, and product build-up. Yes, my friends, a few extra trips to the gym will mean a few more hair-wash days in the weekly routine. Opt for a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo and conditioner to cleanse and hydrate your hair without stripping away its natural oils. Your bestie will be our Duo Kit featuring Stay All Day Clean and Better Hair Days!
Pro Tip: After your workout, your hair is most vulnerable, likely in tangle-central! Detangle gently: use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to detangle your hair. Start from the ends and work your way up to avoid unnecessary breakage. We recommend investing in a quality hair detangler like our Much Easier Hair Detangler.
4. Invest in a microfibre towel
Invest in a high-quality microfibre towel or hair turban. These towels are gentle on the hair and absorb moisture quickly, reducing the time your hair is exposed to dampness after a workout. Unlike traditional cotton towels, which can cause friction and damage the hair cuticle, microfibre towels help prevent breakage and minimise frizz. Wrap your hair in our Stress Less Hair Turban after washing or rinsing post-workout to speed up drying time and maintain the health and integrity of your hair.
5. Embrace what your Mama gave you!
We've said it once, and we'll repeat it - minimise the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling wands, especially on days when you're active. Excessive heat can weaken the hair shaft and lead to breakage, making it more susceptible to damage during workouts. Instead, embrace your natural texture or opt for heatless hairstyles such as braids, buns, or twists. If you must use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray or serum beforehand to create a barrier between your hair and the heat, reducing the risk of damage (Pssst, did you know Better Hair Days is infused with heat protectant ingredients? Yes, your hair mask alone can protect your hair from heat tools!). Additionally, consider lowering the temperature setting on your styling tools to minimise heat exposure while still achieving your desired look. By reducing the frequency of heat styling and taking precautions to protect your hair, you can help maintain its strength and integrity, even during rigorous workouts.
Your haircare routine is the secret to maintaining healthy, insta-worthy hair while staying active. Support your tresses before, during, and after workouts to save time (and money) on expensive hair treatments. Remember to prep your hair correctly, choose a protective hairstyle, invest in a microfibre towel and choose quality haircare for hair that slays as hard as your gym fit.
