Dandruff can also lead to other problems, like acne or a rashy skin, and can even trigger off hair loss. Scratching the scalp, in itchy forms of dandruff, can also lead to secondary bacterial infections. It is, therefore, important to know how to tackle a dandruff problem, even if it is mild. It is not something one has to live with at all. For this, you will also need to know what dandruff is, how it is caused, as well as the factors that can aggravate it.

Common dandruff usually consists of the dead cells that are shed by the skin, to be replaced by new ones. This is a normal process. Some times, however, there can be a build-up of dead cells on the scalp. These are what we refer to as dandruff scales. The scales, along with sebaceous secretions, tend to stick to the scalp and together make up the common condition known as dandruff. The build-up of cells and excessive secretion of sebum can occur due to hormonal activity, at times of stress, due to some hair-care or hair-styling product, or even due to faulty diets and life style.

When people see the dandruff flakes, they generally assume that they have a dry-scalp condition. Dandruff, however, is more commonly due to oiliness of the scalp. The collection of hardened sebum and dead skin cells can block the pores of the scalp, preventing the free flow of natural oil along the hair shaft. This results in hair that is dry and dull, in spite of an oily scalp.

Treatment of Dandruff
The treatment of dandruff involves the use of some specialised products for the regular care of the hair. It is essential to use a medicated hair tonic. Shatone has been specially formulated to fight dandruff and restore the health of the scalp. It contains herbal extracts of amla, jatamansi and bilwa and such ingredients that help to create a germicidal  environment and also restore the normal acid-a1kaline balance of the scalp.

For cleansing of hair, choose a mild herbal shampoo that not only helps to cleanse the hair and scalp, without disturbing the normal balances but also helps to restore the acid-alkaline balance. This is important, as an alkaline surface encourages bacterial activity. One should exercise caution while deciding on anti-dandruff preparations, as many of these are too harsh. They can upset the delicate balance of the scalp, or cause sensitivity, or irritative reactions. Remember that the scalp is already in a sensitive condition. To protect hair and scalp, the use of a herbal hair rinse is also recommended. Regular conditioning with henna goes a long way in controlling dandruff and bringing back health and beauty to hair. Henna is a highly effective cleanser and helps to remove the build-up of dead cells and sebum. If you have an extreme form of dandruff, or an infection, you should maintain good hygiene. Keep your comb, towels and pillow-covers scrupulously clean, washing them daily, if necessary, so that you reduce the chances of re-infection. Whenever you wash your hair, soak your combs and brushes in a mug of hot water, with an antiseptic lotion, like Savlon.

Clinical Treatment
Dandruff has been successfully treated in the chain of Shahnaz Herbal salons, with clinical treatments and regular home-care, using specialised products. The clinical treatments consist of a course of several sittings, taken on a daily or weekly basis, depending on the severity of the condition. It may even be necessary to take more than one course of sittings. The clinical treatment helps to create a germicidal surface on the scalp and also stimulates the hair follicles. Medicated anti-dandruff hair tonics are also applied and the head is exposed to a steamer to open the pores. This not only helps to remove the secretions that cause pore blockage, but also aids better absorption of the products applied on the scalp. Since professional clinical treatments are available, it is best to refer your problem to a professional care clinic.

Home Care
Shatone (Anti-dandruff Lotion)
Apply on scalp with cotton wool, once daily. This is non-oily and there is no need to wash hair after application.

Shalocks (Herbal Hair Oil)
Apply at night, before washing your hair. Leave it on overnight. Shampoo (Shahenna for Oily Hair and Shamla for Dry Hair)

Wash hair twice a week.
Shaoint (Medicated treatment)
Apply half teaspoon Shaoint mixed with egg White. Leave it on for
one hour. Wash hair with shampoo, mixed with two teaspoons Sharinse.
Shahair (Herbal Hair Conditioner)
Apply daily for 8 days, then thrice a week, then twice a week and finally once a week.

Diet
 It has been established that a faulty diet can trigger off dandruff, or even cause the condition to flare. It is essential to have plenty of fresh fruits and raw salads daily. Yoghurt, green leafy vegetables and kalachana should also be taken daily. Drink plenty of water and take whole grain cereals. In case you suffer from dietary deficiencies, consult your doctor for vitamin and mineral supplements, Cut down on salt, sugar, fried foods and fried snacks, as well as aerated drinks.

Lifestyles
You should be getting enough exercise daily, and regular sleep. Smoking, alcohol and coffee can cause an accumulation of toxins in the system and also interfere with the proper absorption of the essential nutrients. At times of stress, follow a conscious method of relaxation. Deep breathing exercises are very useful in reducing stress. Before starting any exercise programme, get your doctor's green signal.

Split Ends
Split ends are the result of dry and damaged hair. Dryness of the scalp and dandruff can mean that the hair is being deprived of natural oils. The ends of the hair are much older than the rest of the hair on the head and are more prone to damage. The excessive use of hair dryers, wire rollers, wrong brushes, over exposure to the sun, as well as procedures like bleaching, perming, chemical dyeing and colouring can lead to brittleness of hair and split ends. In fact any strain on the hair shaft through tying the hair tightly with rubber bands can also cause the hair to split.
 

As you know, each hair is made up of concentric layers. The outer most layer, the cuticle, consists of transparent, over-lapping scales that not only contributes to the lustre of hair, but also plays a protective role. Harsh treatments and abuse of hair can cause these scales to be lifted, making the hair rough and dull and also causing hair damage. In fact, the damage can be so extensive that the hair can split almost half-way up the hair shaft, or even further. Needless to say, this not only detracts from the appearance, but puts the hair in a fragile condition. The only way to deal with split ends is to cut them off. Start taking extra care of hair with conditioning treatments and the use of mild shampoos that are specially formulated for dry hair. Do not allow the split ends to spread up the hair shaft. Cut them off before this happens. Dry, damaged hair, with split ends, means that it is in a delicate condition. It is, therefore, essential to treat hair very gently. Stop using brushes for a while. Use wide toothed combs, specially when hair is wet. Allow the hair to dry naturally, or use hair dryers only when it is absolutely essential. When you do use a hair dryer, stop when hair is still a little damp and then, allow it to dry naturally. Hold the hair dryer at least ten inches away from the hair. Conditioning treatment with henna, at least once every week, will help to restore the damage and strengthen hair. Henna not only conditions hair, but also improves the texture. Natural ingredients, like Henna, are non-toxic. What is more important is that they do not penetrate the middle layers, as chemical lotions do. Specialised products, like Shagrow, have been specially formulated to restore health to damage hair. Shagrow contains extracts like bhringaraj, brahim and Himalayan wild cherry, which help to cleanse and condition the hair. They nourish damage hair and rectify split ends.

Sharoot and Shalisma can be used to provide luster to hair. They help to condition hair, maintain the hair style and control split ends. Shalisma is a hair texturiser, to be used before the shampoo while Sharoot adds shine to hair, keeps hair healthy and well – groomed. They contain ingredients like hibiscus, fenugreek, seaweeds, bhringaraj, brahmi, henna and other extracts that are known for various beneficial properties for natural hair care.

Hair Loss
The Whys of Hair Loss
Loss of hair causes a lot of despair and has a profound psychological impact. The anxiety is not unfounded, because nothing makes as much difference to ones appearance as the onset of hair loss. Even a person with a smooth, well-preserved skin begins to look years older. There are many causes of hairloss, among which hereditary factors play an important role. In men, for instance, hereditary hairloss can progress to baldness. The reason for male pattern baldness as it is called, is attributed to a high level of the male hormone. 
 

Hair loss is usually gradual and may begin with a receding hair line. In fact, the loss occurs mainly in front, at the hairline, and at the top, or crown, of the head. Many remedies have been formulated that may or may not live up to their promises. Even surgical hair-replacement techniques, like hair transplant, exist. Hair loss among women may not progress to total baldness, although severe hair fall and thinning of the hair have become more common today,  than it used to be. A definite cause is yet to be found for this and is thought to be stress related. This kind of hair loss causes a great deal of anxiety and that, in turn, seems to lead to further loss.

Psychosomatic reasons are also thought to be responsible in cases of Alopecia Areata, where localized, round, bald patches occur. A small patch may enlarge, or many small patches may grow larger, merge into each other and result in baldness.

The exact cause of Alopecia Areata is not known as yet, but it can be a source of anguish to the sufferer. However, in most cases, regrowth does occur, sometimes spontaneously, or with appropriate treatment. This fact, itself, should help to reassure victims of alopecia and minimise despair.

Women normally experience hair loss due to hormonal changes during certain periods of their lives. Post-pregnancy hair loss is very common, while menopause brings its share of problems. During such times, proper hair care and professional treatments can arrest, or slow down the rate of loss.

Hair can fall due to internal diseases, or as an after effect of certain drugs. Medication with steroids, and even aspirin, has caused loss of hair in some instances. Glandular disturbances is another cause. In fact, in cases of hair loss, a possible abnormality in the functioning of the thyroid gland should be checked out.

Falling hair can also be triggered off by scalp disease. Some types of dandruff are associated with hair loss, so are certain bacterial and fungal infections. Relieving an itching scalp by scratching with the nails can cause hair to be actually pulled out, often leading to secondary infections that compound the problem.

Hair damage and harsh handling of the hair is a very common cause of hair loss, although people do not realise this. Many of us subject the hair to much abuse, and then search for some complicated cause for the subsequent loss of hair. People find it hard to believe the kind of trauma that can be caused by harsh treatment of the hair. Even vigorous scalp massages should be avoided. Anything that subjects the hair to tension is undesirable. A scalp massage, when properly done, helps to stimulate circulation to the hair follicles.

Nutritional deficiencies are also considered to be a possible cause of hair loss. Anaemia and a lack of the B-Complex Vitamins not only lead to falling hair, but also make hair dull and weak. As in the case of most problems, we should have a look at our lifestyle when confronted with a problem of thinning hair. Smoking and excessive intake of alcohol can cause a depletion of the essential nutrients and may be a contributory factor in hair loss. The daily diet should also be high in the essential food elements, in order to ensure healthy hair. A certain amount of hair fall is normal. It is when the loss exceeds replacement that the problem becomes apparent.

Treatment of Hair Loss
If you find that your are losing more hair than normal, or have a problem with your hair, you should seek professional help in good time. In most cases, the loss of hair can be controlled with treatment
and appropriate hair care.

First of all, it is necessary to identify the cause of hair loss. A general medical examination should be your first priority, so that problems like iron deficiency, thyroid or hormonal imbalances, scalp disease and so on can be dealt with.

The next thing to do is to stop all procedures that may be causing damage or trauma, like penning, bleaching, chemical dyeing, excessive use of hair dryers, brushes, rubber bands and so on. It is necessary to remember that hair is in a weakened state and must be treated accordingly. As far as treatment is concerned, cases of general hair loss and alopecia areata have been treated at the Shahnaz Herbal clinics through clinical treatments and specialised products. Hair loss caused by hormonal imbalances, as is common in the post-pregnancy period and during menopause, as well as in hair damage, scalp disease and anaemia, have been successfully treated through specialised treatments and products that have been formulated according to the Ayurvedic  system. Cases of hair loss that are stress-related have also responded well to treatment. The improvement in the look of the hair and the reassurances given to the client go a long way in reducing anxiety and boosting morale. Clients are also advised to undergo medical check-ups, if necessary.

The clinical treatments consist of procedures that help to stimulate the follicles, improve blood circulation and restore health to the scalp and hair. Medicated lotions are applied to check the problem of hair loss and to improve the condition of the hair. A routine of daily home care is also advised, using Ayurvedic products.

Herbs for Hair
Much success has been achieved with the use of plant ingredients, for the treatment of hair problems, selecting extracts that are known to promote hair growth and keep the scalp in a healthy condition. Not only do these ingredients have powerful therapeutic value, but the body responds well to natural organic substances.

Among the plant ingredients that have been used in the treatment of hair problems are Amla, Shikakai, Reetha, Bael, Henna, Hibiscus, Jatmansi, Neem, Lemon Grass, Bhringaraj, Mint and so on.

Brahmi has been widely used in the Ayurvedic system in India. Not only is it of great value in healing scalp infections, but is known to have a soothing and relaxing effect on the nerves. During the ancient times, it was used to treat psychological problems. Being a nerve tonic and an anti-depressant, it imparts a feeling of optimism and self-confidence. It is, therefore, beneficial in treating hair problems that are stress-related.

These natural ingredients have been included in ranges of hair-care and treatment products, like hair cleansers, rinses, conditioners, medicated lotions and ointments. Amla, for instance, helps to restore the normal acid-alkaline balance. Shikakai and Reetha have powerful cleansing actions, but do not disturb the natural balances.

Many of these ingredients are effective agents against bacterial and fungal infections. Mint has a stimulating effect, due to its action on the capillaries. Neem, one of the most popular and versatile ingredients, is nature's own antibiotic. It has been used for centuries to cure skin and scalp disease.

Those who use chemical hair treatment lotions and dyes, as well as styling procedures that are known to cause hair damage, should realize that it is all the more important to give the hair regular treatments with natural products, so that hair receives some protection from the effect of chemicals. Many of these herbs facilitate the removal and cleansing of toxins and wastes. Natural ingredients are non-toxic and do not harm the structure of hair. They do not destroy the cuticle. In fact, they help to coat the hair shaft, strengthening and protecting the hair.

Greying of Hair
Centuries ago, Ovid wrote, "Did I tell you to leave off dyeing your hair? Now you have none to dye" Even in those ancient times, men and women of Rome and other civilisations used to dye and colour their hair, as part of man's eternal quest for youth. They obviously used substances that caused irreparable damage, causing Ovid to make this remark.
 

Greying hair, like wrinkled skin, is a manifestation of the ageing process. Both cause much despair and a feeling of regret, for lost youth. When hair starts graying prematurely, it can cause a great deal of anxiety and hopelessness. It dose present a problem of how to camouflage the grey hair and also check the process.

To understand the graying process, one must have a basic idea of the structure of the hair. It is in the middle layer of the hair shaft, the cortex, that pigment, or colouring matter, forms. This gives the hair its colour. The more the pigment, the darker the colour. With age, or due to other reasons, the pigment may not form, causing the hair to be without colour. The white colourless strands mix with the  dark hair and give the impression of grey hair. Naturally, when the white strands appear, the question of how to deal with them causes concern, not just from the aspect of concealment, but also to control the graying. This makes it important to know a few facts about hair, so that hair damage  is minimal.

First of all, the strands that have turned white cannot become dark again. The only way to change their colour is by dyeing. Hair dyeing has become a very common practice among men and women, but many of them do not know the way the structure of hair can be affected. So, they are not able to take the precautionary measures that help to control damage to hair and to themselves.

Chemical dyes and colourants work by penetrating the cortex, causing damage to the Structure of the hair. The outermost layer, the cuticle, which contributes to the lustre of hair, gets stripped off in an uneven manner. This results in hair, that is dull and rough. The cuticle also protects the hair shaft. With its removal, hair can become dry an brittle, resulting in hair breakage and even hair loss. Another effect that may not be immediately apparent, is the gradual build-up of chemical and toxic residues in the system. Chemical dyes have also been known to cause allergic and irritative reactions. Chemical dyes are of two kinds -Permanent and Semi-Permanent dyes. The semi-permanent kind are like shampoos, to the extent that you apply them and rinse your hair the way you do when you shampoo. The dyeing agent remains in the hair, along with other chemicals that help the dye to penetrate the cortex. The dye gradually fades and you may need to apply it again in about 5 to 6 weeks time.

Permanent dyes, as the term suggests, last longer. The dye is applied evenly allover the hair and is left on for about half-an-hour. Hair is then rinsed. Permanent dyes also penetrate the cortex. You may find that you need to touch up the roots as hair grows. It is essential to take a few precautions when using chemical dyes, whether permanent or semi-permanent . 
 

•  Read the Instructions carefully.

 
•  A skin patch test is absolutely necessary.

 
•  Regular conditioning and protective treatments should be given to hair.

Natural Protection
If you dye your hair with chemical dyes, it is all the more necessary to treat hair regularly with natural ingredients, in order to protect it from the harmful effects of chemicals and keep hair damage to a minimum. Dye your hair, if you must, but help to restore its health and beauty in terms of texture, quality and quantity.

As far as your daily hair-care routine is concerned, wash your hair with mild herbal shampoos. An amla shampoo would be best, as it would benefit dry hair and also restore the acid-alkaline balance of the scalp. Amla is also known to check greying. A herbal hair rinse would give your hair added protection. Have regular conditioning treatments with henna to protect the hair and improve its look. Hair that has been dyed needs special care. Many of the ingredients in herbal preparations help to counteract the effect of chemical substances. Some of them facilitate the removal of toxins and help to reduce the accumulation of harmful substances in the system. Others help to improve the texture of hair by making it softer and smoother. 

Henna Dyes
One of the main advantages of using natural dyes and colourants, like henna, is that they are completely safe and do not subject hair and scalp to any hazards. Henna is non-toxic and does not harm the structure of hair. In fact, henna does not penetrate the cortex and does not destroy the cuticle. It has the ability of coating the hair shaft and actually provides added protection. It also makes hair appear thicker and lends it body and luster.
 

If you have few grey strands, there is no need to use chemical dyes, as henna can be used very effective to conceal them. A question that is commonly asked is whether henna will colour the entire hair a flaming red. The answer to this is that dark hair will not be coloured red. In fact, henna will add gloss and brighten it.

Coffee of Kaththa (catechu) can be added to henna paste to give the white hair a rich brown colour rather than a reddish tinge. The coloured stands will blend with the rest of the dark hair and will be well concealed.

Henna powders have been combined with other ingredients like kohl, amla, bael and so on, to formulate conditioners that will not only dye the hair but also benefit it in several ways. In fact, the regular use of such products would help to check graying. For those who use chemical dyes, such preparations provide protection and improve the look and texture of the hair.

One of the most important aspects of cosmetic-care is to be aware of the detrimental effects of various treatments. Some treatments can have disastrous results, involving a great deal of time, effort and expense to gain what is lost. In some cases, the damage may be permanent. As far as possible, avoid treatments that expose the skin and hair to damage. When you feel you must resort to such methods, be sure to supplement them with an appropriate routine of regular care, so that the natural beauty of the most important beauty asset may be preserved as long as possible.

Natural colourants and dyes

• In ancient Egypt and Persia, indigo was mixed with henna to colou the hair. It gave a dark bluish tinge to the hair.

• Walnut bark is also known to colour the hair brown. Tea rinses do not dye hair, but lend it attractive highlights.

• Kaththa (catechu) or coffee powder can be added to the henna paste to give hair a darker colour.

• Henna is the most popular natural colourant. It is easily available and easy to use. It conditions hair and has great protective and restore powers. Such qualities have made henna one of the most versatile ingredients.

Shahair
Henna reinforced with Brahmi, Mint and Sandalwood. Method of Use: Mix required quantity of Henna powder, depending on the length of your hair. Add four teaspoon coffee powder and four teaspoon lemon juice, along with enough raw eggs, to make a paste toothpaste consistency. If the hair is dry or brittle, add two teaspoon Shalocks. Apply on hair and leave on for two hours. Wash off with water, using Shahenna.

Permanent Waves and Hair Straightening 
Permanent waves are bad for the hair. Most of the cases of hair damage that we treat in our clinics are caused by procedures like permanent waves. Permanent waves lotions contain chemicals that  alter the structure of the hair and this is what causes the damage. The lotion penetrates the cortex, in order to soften hair and make it curl, or wave. In doing this, it actually changes the chemical nature of the hair. After the desired effect is achieved, an oxidizing agent is used, to harden hair, making the curls, or waves, permanent.
 

Most people do not realize, or do not know, the kind of hair damage such chemicals can wrought. If you wish to protect the natural beauty and the good health of the hair, you should not use such products. And, if you must, it is very necessary to exercise great caution. Very often, the hair dresser may not have any knowledge about the structure of hair and the damage caused by such powerful chemicals. This kind of lack of knowledge can lead to untold damage and even destruction of hair. You should choose your hair dresser with care.

Similar caution should be exercised if you have your hair straightened. In fact, hair straightening may be even more dangerous, because the lotion is applied closer to the roots. Hair straightening procedures call for the same kind of chemical lotions as permanent waves. The result is also the same kind of damage, in which the structure of hair is affected. Breakage of hair and hair loss are very common in instances where hair straightening or permanent waving procedures have been used.

It is a good idea to read the instructions on permanent wave lotion, so that you are informed about the procedure and the time involved. This is of great importance, because the lotion should not be left on longer than the time given in the instructions. If it is left on too long, it can cause great damage. When you go through the procedures, pay attention to what is being done and note the time when the lotion is applied.

The other caution you should you should exercise is not to have your hair permed or straightened if you are having a hair problem, like dandruff, or some other scalp disease, or hair loss. If you have had your hair permed, straightened, dyed, or bleached, remember to take regular conditioning treatments, with natural products, in order to restore some beauty and health to the hair.

Brushes and Combs
Attention should be paid to the kind of brushes and combs you use. Personally, have always felt that it is better to use a comb, instead of a brush. There is less hair breakage when combs are used. If there is a hair: problem, like dryness, split ends, brittleness or hair loss, stop using a brush. Even where combs are concerned, plastic ones are not recommended. Very often plastic combs have sharp-edged teeth and this can damage or break the hair. Choose a wide toothed comb made of hard rubber, horn, tortoiseshell, or even wood. If you must use a brush, plastic bristled brushes, or one with wire bristles are out. Look for a brush with natural bristles. This would cause the least damage.

Keep your combs and brushes scrupulously clean. Set a side one day in the week for cleaning them. In a mug of hot water, add a little liquid soap, or shampoo, one to two teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda and a little antiseptic solution. Let your combs and brushes soak in this solution for 15 minutes. Use an old toothbrush to scrub them, if necessary. Then rinse them out well with plain water.

Diet for Healthy Hair
Nutritional experts are unified in their opinion the mineral and vitamin deficiencies and an unbalanced diet are responsible for premature ageing changes and problems like dryness, brittleness, hair loss and even dandruff. Many facts have come to light. We all know, for instance, that protection is necessary for strong,  healthy hair, but recent research findings indicate that a high protection diet of meats can lead to a deficiency of certain minerals, undermining the health of the body and thus, affecting the hair.
 

Daily diet is as important for hair as for every part of the body. Apart from proteins, daily diet must supply the body with adequate amount of vitamins, minerals, undermining the health of the body and thus, affecting the hair.

Daily diet is as important for hair as for every part of the body. Apart from proteins, daily diet must supply the body with adequate amounts of vitamins,  Minerals, trace elements and bioflavonoids. It is also important to get enough enzymes for the proper breakdown and utilization of proteins.

The minerals that are essential for healthy hair are iron, zinc, magnesium, sulphur, potassium and iodine. Zinc, for example, contributes significantly to the formation of enzymes in the body. The minerals also need to be properly balanced, for the efficient functioning of the various nutrients. A deficiency of iron is the cause of dull, brittle hair and can even lead to hair loss. If you have such hair problems, you should take medical advice to rule out an anaemic condition.
 

Sulphur and iodine play an important protective role. Sulphur is necessary for the proper functioning and utilization of the B Vitamins and thus, contributes to the strength and lustre of the hair. Iodine is necessary for the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland and iodine deficiency can lead to many hair problems. The B-Complex Vitamins are extremely important for hair. Many scientific experiments have been conducted on this relationship between vitamins and hair health. It has been seen that vitamins not only help to maintain the health and shine of hair, but also protect it from age related changes. Adequate quantities of the B- Vitamins can help to prevent common complaints like dandruff.

Your daily diet must consist of adequate quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables eaten raw, as this ensures the supply of vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Green vegetables are very important. Obtain extra vitamin B from Brewers yeast, which can be obtained from lean meat, fish, egg, paneer, yoghurt, dals are of great benefit to hair. A fresh, raw salad, consisting of fruits, vegetables and sprouts should be taken daily. Lettuce, tomato, carrots, cucumber, radish, cabbage, apples, Orange, grapes, pineapple, beetroot, grapes, and so on can be used for salads. Add nuts, seeds and sprouts. Lemon juice, mint and green dhania chutney, or yoghurt can be added to salads as low calories dressing. Yoghurt is a wonder food as far as hair is concerned. Fresh fruits and vegetables juices should also be included in the diet. Over cooked, fried foods, confectionery items and aerated drinks provide calories and have no nutritional value, while coffee, alcohol and cigarettes cause a depletion of vitamins. There is scientific evidence, that the B vitamins may play an important role in restoring the health of hair and also in preventing general hair loss and greying. Studies have .shown that people in the Far Eastern countries, who have foods like soya beans, lightly cooked vegetables, seafood, wholegrain rice and do not consume coffee, have healthy, lustrous hair. The incidence of premature greying is also less among them. The hair requires nourishment from the inside to maintain its health. 

That is why the daily diet is as important, if not more, than what you do in terms  of external care. Home Ingredients for Hair Many ingredients in the home can be of benefit to hair. You only have to reach for your kitchen shelf, or into your refrigerator, to prepare a beauty treatment. Oils: The application of oil, with a light massage, helps to stimulate blood circulation to the follicles and also improves the texture and look of the hair. It can also help to loosen dandruff flakes and facilitate their removal. Oils have their own particular properties and benefits. Olive oil helps to restore the natural acid mantle of the scalp and keeps it healthy. Castor oil restores the health of hair that has suffered damage through the use of chemical hair dyes, permanent wave lotions, or over-use of hair dryers. Pure Coconut oil is commonly used on hair, in India. It not only improves the texture of hair, but is said to help hair growth. A pinch of camphor added to coconut oil and applied on hair helps to prevent infections and lice infestations.

Fenugreek (methi) seeds also protect the scalp from infections. Soak the seeds overnight and then grind them into a paste. Apply the paste on the scalp and keep it on for a few minutes. Rinse off with water. Lemon juice is a wonderful natural cleanser. If you have dandruff, apply warm coconut oil on the scalp with cotton wool. Keep it on overnight. Next morning, apply the juice of a lemon on the scalp and wash your hair as usual, after half-an-hour. This treatment helps to get rid of flakes and cleanse the scalp. Hair also gets added body and bounce.

Egg is one of the most versatile ingredients. It contains silicon, sulphur and fatty acids that help to nourish hair. The white of the egg has a powerful cleansing action, specially for greasy hair. Egg applied on the scalp before the shampoo helps to add thickness too. Beat the egg with a little milk, to form a thickish consistency and apply it on the scalp and hair. After half-an-hour rinse hair well, with water. This not only promotes the health of hair, but adds shine and thickness. Mayonnaise also benefits dry hair. Wet the hair and wipe the excess water with a towel. On damp hair, apply a little mayonnaise and wash off after half-an-hour. Mix Salt with a little water to dampen it a little and rub it into the scalp. Salt helps oily hair and also removes scales. The salt soaks up the excess oil and helps to dislodge the scales. Wash your hair with plenty of water.