Looking for some home remedies to close your hair cuticle? In this post, we’ll cover 5 simple methods that you can use to get glossy hair.
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Is your hair dull, lacking shine, and just generally feeling…rough? If this sounds like you, your hair’s cuticle may be in need of some TLC.
Hair cuticles that are in rough shape can lead to hair that tangles easily, and is weak and prone to breakage.
So if you want to grow your hair long, paying attention to your cuticle health is a must!
It makes a big difference in how shiny your hair looks too, which is something we all want.
If you’re looking for some at-home treatments that you can do to help close your hair cuticle, keep reading!
Here is all of the info you need on home remedies to help seal and close your hair cuticle.
Home Remedies to Close Hair Cuticle
Before we get into the methods to smooth and close the hair cuticle, let’s talk about the hair cuticle and some things that can affect its condition.
What is the hair cuticle?
The hair cuticle is the outermost layer that covers the entire hair shaft of the hair strand. The cells that make up your hair create what look like scales that overlap in layers, in a downward direction. Picture it kind of like shingles on a roof, or scales on a mermaid’s tail!
It’s very important to take care of the cuticle, as it is the protective layer over the inner portions of the hair strand (the cortex and the medulla).
If the hair cuticle is damaged, your hair isn’t as protected and weak hair can lead to breakage. Not good for those of us who want to keep our strands long!
In low porosity hair, the cuticles tend to lay tighter and have less space between them.
This hair type finds that it is hard for water and moisture to enter the hair shaft.
On the other hand, high porosity hair has cuticles that are more open with more space between them.
People with this hair type tend to find that their hair easily absorbs moisture, but it also easily escapes, leaving their hair feeling dry.
What does it mean to “close” the hair cuticle?
It refers to making the scales of the cuticle lay against each other, rather than sticking out which gives a rough feeling to the hair and allows moisture to escape.
These methods are going to help the cuticle layers stay flat against each other, giving the strands a smoother, shinier appearance.
They’ll also help encourage the cuticle’s protection of the hair strands.
What causes hair cuticles to open?
Excessive heat from tools such as curling irons and wands, flat irons, and even the sun and hot water.
Other damaging factors are harsh chemicals from treatments such as dye or relaxer.
Excessive manipulation and rough handling from things like brushing, the wind, or friction against abrasive fabrics can affect your cuticle.
How do I know if my cuticle is damaged?
Some signs you may see and feel in your hair include:
- Hair is frizzy
- Feels rough
- Looks dull and lacks shine
- Tangles very easily
- Always feels dry
Close the Hair Cuticle: At Home Methods
Now let’s get into the methods! You can do all of these at home, with products you likely already have.
TIP: Whichever methods you choose to use, be sure to cleanse regularly. A buildup of excess product isn’t great for cuticle health either!
Solution 1: Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Acidic products are effective in sealing the hair cuticle because of their low pH, so apple cider vinegar is a great product to use.
You’ll want to make sure that you dilute the apple cider vinegar before applying it to your hair because it can cause irritation to your skin if it’s used undiluted.
As your hair gets used to it, you can adjust the ratios to include more apple cider vinegar.
Take note of how your hair feels, and work up to using half ACV and half water.
Use this rinse once per week!
Steps:
- In a container or glass jar, mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 14 oz of warm water
- After shampooing, pour the ACV mixture over your entire head, aiming to completely coat all of your hair and scalp
- Leave it on for a few minutes as you shower (use this as a chance for a scalp massage!)
- Rinse, and you’re done!
Solution 2: Deep Conditioner
You’ll want to follow the instructions on the specific product that you’re using – many deep conditioners state that you should shampoo before using.
Getting rid of any product buildup and dirt on your hair is going to help the deep conditioner work its magic more effectively!
Deep conditioners will penetrate the hair shaft, deliver moisture, and help smooth the cuticle to ensure the moisture stays contained within the strands.
Solution 3: Leave-In Conditioner
A leave-in conditioner will not penetrate the hair quite as deeply as a deep conditioner will, but it will still be effective in helping to smooth the hair cuticle.
Steps:
- After washing and conditioning, apply your leave in conditioner to damp hair
- Whether using a detangling brush or your fingers, be sure to evenly coat all strands of your hair
Solution 4: Hair Oil & Serums
Using oils and serums is going to be very helpful in sealing the hair cuticle and getting you the shine that you want.
They can help protect your strands and prevent the cuticle from getting damaged from environmental factors.
You can use natural oils or store bought serums depending on your preference, and using these products is especially great for sealing your ends after washing your hair.
Check out this post for a list of some amazing oils for healthy hair! Anyone can use these oils, and they are extra amazing for those with low porosity hair.
Solution 5: Cold Water Rinse
This one is a highly debated topic, because some people swear cold water makes their hair shiny and smooth, and others say it’s a complete myth.
Try it out and see for yourself!
Steps:
- After shampooing and conditioning, rinse out your conditioner with cold water (as cool as you can comfortably stand it, it doesn’t have to be ice water!)
- Squeeze the excess water from your hair, and continue with your post-shower hair care routine as normal
Closing the Hair Cuticle With At Home Methods
These easy, at home methods will help you get super glossy, sleek hair. Try them out and see the difference in your hair!
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