Hair Cycling: The Way to Healthy Hair

Irritation, dryness, and hygral fatigue- these are some examples of the type of problems you may face while washing your hair. To obtain maximum hair health, the latest trends in the beauty industry are recommending a practice known as hair cycling! Read on to find out what hair cycling is and how you can get started!

What is Hair Cycling?

If you’ve heard about skin cycling, hair cycling is practically the same concept but for your hair! Hair cycling basically rotates hair care products to maintain the cleanliness and health of your hair and scalp. This beauty regimen also involves the use of various products that are suitable for your specific hair type, texture, and requirements. Hair cycling goes beyond just having a preferred brand or regular shampoo. It also involves using a combination of products that serve different purposes and are used in a weekly or monthly cycle. These products work together towards the common objective of maintaining healthy and well-nourished hair.

Benefits:

• Minimizes irritation to the scalp from products. Reduces the potential risk of inflammation from ingredients such as sulfates and silicones, which tend to build up on the scalp and hair follicles, leaving them more susceptible to irritation.
• Helps to avoid excessive use of hair products, which can cause hygral fatigue. Hygral fatigue is the damage done to the hair follicles resulting from repeated swelling and unswelling, usually caused by over-conditioning.
• Controls scalp conditions. Patients with eczema or dandruff are often advised to practice hair cycling. This is because they can alternate between medicated and moisturizing shampoos, which can be helpful in managing their conditions.

Getting Started:

STEP 1: Determine your hair type and texture and take into account your surroundings.STEP 2: Establish a routine that suits your preferences and is feasible for you to follow. Determine the specific days on which you will wash, clarify, condition, and apply hair masks.STEP 3: Expect some trial and error. Adjust accordingly.

Example of a Hair Routine:

Day One

• Use a shampoo that is free from parabens, sulfates, and fragrances. This will help in balancing the pH of your scalp and supporting the scalp microbiome. 
• After shampooing, apply a hydrating conditioner.
• To lock in the moisture, use a hair oil like jojoba oil.

Day Two

• Use an over-the-counter clarifying shampoo such as Nizoral Anti-Dandruff Shampoo or Neutrogena T/Sal Shampoo, depending on your needs. 
• Instead of a conditioner, use a hair mask after shampooing to provide an extra dose of hydration. 
• If you have fine hair and find it challenging to use heavy products regularly, use the hair mask once a week only on the ends of your hair and avoid the scalp area.

We hope this guide can help you get jumpstarted on maximizing your hair health. To learn more, you can listen to my podcasthere!