Change isn't always easy.
This saying holds true when it comes to switching to plant-based, natural hair and skin products. I recently had a chance to sit down with master stylist Abigail Kuehl to talk about making the transition.
Don't panic!
The daily use of the harsh detergents in most hair and skin products can cause irritation. This signals your body to compensate by over-producing sebum. Gentler cleansers allow your body to adjust back to normal level of sebum production, but this can take a few days or weeks. Being consistent in your use of plant based shampoo allows your body to bet back to a more balanced state. "Initially, you might experience more oily hair if your body has been overproducing sebum. Don't panic! After a few days or weeks, your body will adjust. We think it is worth the wait since a healthier scalp and happy hair follicles ultimately mean better hair and skin," explains Kuehl.
Restore from within
Restoring hair strength from within can take time too, especially for over-worked hair. Traditional products are full of heavy silicones that coat the hair. This provides an instant result of thicker, fuller hair. Kuehl, "Silicones build up on hair to the point that I can scrape it off with my cutting scissors. That build up actually weakens the hair shaft and makes it more susceptible to breakage."
Shai Amiel, Celebrity Hairstylist & Owner, CAPELLA Salon explains, “Silicone will weigh the hair down, making it limp, lifeless, and, with time, very dull. It prevents moisture from penetrating the hair shaft and becomes like a magnet for dirt and other ingredients. With time it will dry the hair out because it won’t allow in the conditioner and it ends up sitting on the surface.”
What's the alternative?
Formulas rich in natural oils like grape seed, coconut, jojoba, and avocado work by absorbing into the hair shaft. They restore hair strength from within. The transition process can take a few weeks. First you have to remove the layers of build up, and then give your hair time to pull in the natural oils.
Work with your professional stylist to determine the right mix of products for you. Change up your product routine seasonally.
Are you ready to make the change?
-- Abigail + David, ANTIDOTE1848
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