21 Simple and Effective Ways to Take Care of Your Hair Naturally

Taking care of our hair is an important part of our daily routine, and it can sometimes be a challenge to find natural and effective ways to keep our hair healthy and strong. As the famous saying goes, "Invest in your hair, it is the crown you never take off". 

At Rosaherbalcare, we believe that natural remedies and ingredients are the best way to take care of your hair. That's why we have compiled a list of 21 simple and effective ways to take care of your hair naturally. From easy-to-make hair masks to lifestyle changes that promote healthy hair growth, our guide has got you covered. With these tips, you can achieve shiny, healthy, and beautiful hair that is truly fit for a crown.

21 Natural Ways to Have Healthy Hair

• Use A Sulfate-Free Shampoo

Sulfates are a type of harsh detergent that are commonly found in many commercial shampoos. They are responsible for creating lather and removing dirt, oil, and product buildup from your hair. However, they can also strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

Sulfate-free shampoos are formulated with gentler surfactants that do not strip the hair of its natural oils. They are typically made with ingredients such as cocamidopropyl betaine, which is a mild cleanser derived from coconut oil, and sodium lauryl sulfoacetate, which is a mild surfactant that creates a rich lather without stripping the hair.

Using a herbal shampoo can help maintain your hair's natural moisture balance, which is essential for healthy hair. It is especially important for people with curly or textured hair, as these hair types tend to be more prone to dryness and breakage.

When choosing a sulfate-free shampoo, look for one that is suitable for your hair type and concerns. For example, if you have color-treated hair, look for a sulfate-free shampoo that is specifically formulated for color-treated hair. Additionally, sulfate-free shampoos may not create as much lather as traditional shampoos, but that does not mean they are less effective at cleaning your hair. Just apply the shampoo to your scalp and work it through your hair, then rinse thoroughly.

• Use A Conditioner That Is Appropriate For Your Hair Type

Conditioner is an essential part of any hair care routine as it helps to nourish and hydrate the hair, making it more manageable and less prone to breakage.

When selecting a conditioner, it is important to choose one that is specifically formulated for your hair type. For example, if you have fine hair, look for a lightweight conditioner that will not weigh your hair down. If you have thick, curly hair, look for a conditioner that is rich and moisturizing to help tame frizz and define your curls.

To use conditioner, apply it to the mid-lengths and ends of your hair after shampooing. Avoid applying it to your scalp as this can make your hair look greasy. Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly with cool water. Cool water helps to seal the hair cuticle, making your hair look shiny and more manageable.

In addition to using conditioner regularly, it is also important to deep condition your hair once a week or as needed. Deep conditioning treatments are more intense and help to nourish and repair damaged hair. You can use a store-bought deep conditioner or make your own using natural ingredients such as honey, avocado, or coconut oil. Apply the treatment to your hair and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it out thoroughly. Your hair will be left feeling soft, hydrated, and healthy.

• Avoid Washing Your Hair Every Day

While it may be tempting to wash your hair daily to keep it looking and feeling clean, doing so can actually do more harm than good.

Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, which can leave it feeling dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. This is especially true for people with curly or textured hair, as these hair types tend to be more fragile and prone to dryness.

Instead of washing your hair every day, try to wash it every other day or every few days. This will allow your scalp to produce and distribute its natural oils throughout your hair, keeping it hydrated and healthy. You can also use dry shampoo in between washes to help absorb excess oil and refresh your hair.

Use lukewarm water instead of hot water when washing your hair. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it more prone to breakage. Additionally, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and massage it into your scalp to help stimulate blood flow and promote healthy hair growth. Rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water to help seal the hair cuticle and add shine.

If you have an oily scalp or you exercise frequently, you may need to wash your hair more often. However, try to avoid washing it more than once a day, as this can cause over-drying and damage to your hair.

• Avoid Hot Styling Tools

Hot styling tools can be damaging to your hair, as they can cause the hair cuticle to become rough and brittle, leading to split ends and breakage.

If you must use hot styling tools, use them sparingly and always apply a heat protectant spray or serum to your hair first. This will help to minimize the damage caused by the heat.

To protect your hair from heat damage, try air-drying your hair instead of using a hair dryer whenever possible. If you do use a hair dryer, use a diffuser attachment and set it to the lowest heat setting. This will help to distribute the heat more evenly and prevent over-drying.

When using a flat iron or curling iron, use the lowest heat setting possible and avoid leaving the tool in one spot for too long. This can cause localized heat damage to your hair. Additionally, use a high-quality tool with ceramic or tourmaline plates, as these materials help to distribute heat more evenly and minimize damage.

It's important to note that heat damage can accumulate over time, so it's best to avoid using hot styling tools on a daily basis. Instead, try to embrace your natural hair texture and use gentle styling techniques such as braiding or twisting to create different looks.

• Use A Wide Tooth Comb

Using a wide-tooth comb is a gentler way to detangle your hair without causing damage. Start at the ends of your hair and work your way up to the roots, gently detangling any knots or tangles as you go. You can also use your fingers to gently work through any particularly stubborn knots.

In addition to using a wide-tooth comb, it's important to be gentle when detangling your hair. Wet hair is particularly vulnerable to damage, so avoid pulling or tugging on your hair while it's wet. Instead, use a detangling spray or conditioner to help ease the process. 

You can also try detangling your hair in the shower using a wide-tooth comb or your fingers while your hair is coated in conditioner. This can make the process easier and less damaging to your hair. By being gentle and using the right tools, you can detangle your hair without causing damage, leading to healthier and more manageable hair.

• Use A Silk Or Satin Pillowcase

Using a silk or satin pillowcase can have several benefits for your hair health. These materials are much smoother than cotton, which can cause friction and tugging on your hair strands as you move around in your sleep. This friction can lead to breakage, split ends, and even hair loss over time.

On the other hand, silk and satin pillowcases are much gentler on your hair. They allow your hair to glide smoothly over the surface of the pillow, reducing the amount of friction and tugging that can occur. This can help to minimize damage and keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.

In addition to reducing friction, silk and satin pillowcases can also help to prevent frizz. This is because these materials don't absorb moisture from your hair in the same way that cotton does. When your hair comes into contact with a cotton pillowcase, it can absorb some of the moisture and natural oils from your hair, which can lead to dryness and frizz. However, a silk or satin pillowcase won't absorb these oils, which helps to keep your hair hydrated and smooth.

• Message Your Hair Regularly

Massaging your scalp regularly is a simple and effective way to promote healthy hair growth. This is because massaging your scalp helps to increase blood flow to the hair follicles, which can provide them with the nutrients and oxygen they need to grow strong and healthy.

When you massage your scalp, you also help to stimulate the production of sebum, which is a natural oil that helps to moisturize and protect your hair. By increasing the production of sebum, you can help to prevent dryness and breakage, and keep your hair looking and feeling healthy.

In addition to promoting hair growth and moisture, scalp massage can also be a great way to relieve stress and tension. Many people find that a scalp massage can help to relax the muscles in their head and neck, and promote feelings of calm and relaxation.

To massage your scalp, you can use your fingertips or a scalp massaging tool. Start at the base of your neck and work your way up to the top of your head, using gentle circular motions. You can also try using a natural oil, such as amla hair oil, to make the massage more relaxing and nourishing for your hair.

• Avoid Tight Hairstyle

Avoiding tight hairstyles that pull on your hair and scalp is important for maintaining healthy hair. Tight hairstyles, such as braids, ponytails, and buns, can put excessive tension on your hair and scalp, leading to damage, breakage, and even hair loss.

When you wear a tight hairstyle, the tension can cause your hair strands to stretch and weaken over time. This can lead to split ends and breakage, which can make your hair look and feel unhealthy. Additionally, the constant pulling on your scalp can damage the hair follicles and prevent healthy hair growth.

If you want to wear your hair up, there are several options that are less likely to cause damage. For example, you can try a loose braid or a loose bun, which won't put as much tension on your hair and scalp. You can also use soft hair ties or scrunchies instead of tight elastics, which can be harsh on your hair.

It's also important to give your hair a break from tight hairstyles. Try wearing your hair down or in a loose style for a few days each week, to give your hair and scalp a chance to rest and recover.

• Use A Clarifying Shampoo

Using a clarifying shampoo once a month can help to remove buildup from styling products, pollutants, and hard water that can accumulate on your hair over time. Clarifying shampoos work by using stronger, more effective detergents that can remove stubborn buildup that regular shampoos may not be able to remove.

When you use styling products, such as hairspray, gel, or mousse, they can leave behind a residue on your hair that can make it look dull and lifeless. Additionally, pollutants from the environment, such as smoke and dust, can cling to your hair and scalp, leading to buildup and irritation.

Hard water, which contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium, can also cause buildup on your hair. When you wash your hair with hard water, the minerals can cling to your hair strands, making them feel rough and difficult to style.

By using a clarifying shampoo or hair and scalp shampoo once a month, you can help to remove this buildup and restore your hair's natural shine and softness. However, it's important not to use clarifying shampoos too frequently, as they can be harsh and strip your hair of its natural oils.

• Protect Your Hair From The Sun's Harmful UV Rays

Protecting your hair from the sun's harmful UV rays is important to maintain healthy hair. Exposure to the sun can damage your hair in several ways, including causing dryness, brittleness, and fading of hair color.

One of the easiest ways to protect your hair from the sun is by wearing a hat or a scarf. A wide-brimmed hat can help to shield your hair and scalp from the sun's rays, while a scarf can be a stylish and practical accessory that can also provide protection.

Another way to protect your hair from the sun is by using a leave-in conditioner with SPF. These products are designed to provide both hydration and sun protection, making them a great choice for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.

It's also important to avoid spending too much time in direct sunlight, especially during the peak hours of the day when the sun's rays are strongest. If you do spend time in the sun, be sure to rinse your hair thoroughly with cool water and use a hydrating conditioner to prevent dryness and damage.

If you have color-treated hair, it's particularly important to protect it from the sun's rays, as exposure to UV light can cause the color to fade and become dull. Using a leave-in conditioner with UV protection can help to prevent this from happening, and regular touch-ups with a color-safe hair dye can help to keep your color looking fresh and vibrant.

• Use Natural Oil

Natural oils can be a great addition to your hair care routine, as they can help to moisturize and nourish your hair, making it look shiny and healthy. Two popular natural oils for hair are coconut oil and argan oil.

Coconut oil is a great option for people with dry, damaged, or frizzy hair, as it can penetrate deep into the hair shaft to provide intense hydration and nourishment. It can also help to prevent breakage and split ends, and make your hair look and feel smoother and shinier.

Argan oil, on the other hand, is a great option for people with fine or oily hair, as it is lightweight and non-greasy. It can help to reduce frizz and flyaways, and make your hair look and feel softer and more manageable.

To use natural oils on your hair, simply apply a small amount to your hair and scalp, focusing on the ends and avoiding the roots. You can also use natural oils as a pre-shampoo treatment by applying the oil to your hair and leaving it on for 30 minutes to an hour before washing your hair.

• Eat Healthy

Your diet can have a significant impact on the health and growth of your hair. Eating a balanced diet that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals can help to promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.

Here's a table of essential vitamins for hair and their food sources commonly found in Indian cuisine:

Vitamin	Function	Food Sources
Vitamin A	Promotes hair growth and prevents dryness	Carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, mango, papaya, apricot, egg yolk
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)	Helps produce keratin, a protein that makes up hair	Almonds, peanuts, walnuts, cashews, chana dal, rajma, soybeans, mushrooms, eggs
Vitamin C	Helps produce collagen, which strengthens hair	Amla, guava, lemon, orange, tomato, spinach, cauliflower, capsicum
Vitamin D	Promotes hair growth and prevents hair loss	Sunlight, mushrooms, fatty fish such as salmon
Vitamin E	Improves blood circulation to the scalp, promotes hair growth	Almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, mustard greens, spinach, olive oil
Iron	Helps carry oxygen to hair follicles, promotes hair growth	Spinach, beetroot, beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, pumpkin seeds, jaggery
Zinc	Helps maintain the oil-secreting glands on the scalp, promotes hair growth	Legumes, nuts and seeds, mushrooms, paneer, egg yolk, oysters

• No Harsh Chemicals

Harsh chemicals, such as hair dyes, relaxers, and perms, can be very damaging to your hair. These chemicals can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. They can also cause scalp irritation and hair loss.

If you do choose to use these types of chemicals on your hair, it is important to take proper precautions to minimize damage. For example, if you are dyeing your hair, choose a gentle, ammonia-free dye and follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to condition your hair regularly to keep it hydrated and healthy.

Alternatively, consider using natural or plant-based dyes, such as henna or indigo, which are gentler on the hair and scalp.

• Rinse Your Hair With Cool Water

Rinsing your hair with cool water after washing can help to seal the hair cuticle, which can make your hair look shinier and smoother. Hot water can cause the hair cuticle to open up, which can make your hair look frizzy and dull.

To get the best results, rinse your hair with cool water for a few seconds after shampooing and conditioning. You don't need to use ice-cold water; just water that is slightly cooler than room temperature should be sufficient.

If you find that rinsing your hair with cool water is too uncomfortable, you can try finishing your shower with a quick blast of cool water just on your hair. This can help to seal the hair cuticle without making your entire body feel cold.

• Use A Hair Mask

Hair masks like that are made from henna powder are deep conditioning treatments that can help to nourish and repair your hair. They are usually applied after shampooing and left on for several minutes to allow the ingredients to penetrate the hair shaft. Some hair masks can even be left on overnight for more intense hydration and repair.

Hair masks can be especially beneficial for people with dry, damaged, or color-treated hair, as they can help to restore moisture and repair any damage caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental factors.

When choosing a hair mask, look for one that is specifically designed for your hair type and concerns. For example, if you have curly hair, you may want to look for a mask that is formulated to define and moisturize curls. If you have fine hair, you may want to look for a lightweight, volumizing mask that won't weigh your hair down.

• Avoid Over-Brushing Your Hair

While brushing your hair is important for detangling and distributing natural oils, over-brushing can actually be harmful to your hair. When you brush your hair too much, you can cause friction that can lead to breakage, split ends, and damage to the hair cuticle.

To avoid over-brushing your hair, be gentle when brushing or combing your hair. Start at the ends and work your way up, using a wide-tooth comb or a brush with soft bristles. Avoid pulling or tugging on your hair, and be especially careful when your hair is wet, as it is more fragile and prone to breakage.

Additionally, consider how often you brush your hair. If you have curly or wavy hair, you may be able to get away with brushing your hair less frequently, as brushing can disrupt your natural curl pattern. If you have fine or thinning hair, be especially careful when brushing, as your hair may be more prone to breakage.

• Don't Use Too Many Styling Products At Once

Styling products can be a great way to add texture, volume, or hold to your hair. However, using too many products at once can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy or oily. Additionally, some products may not work well together, leading to an undesirable result.

To avoid using too many styling products, start with a small amount of product and work your way up as needed. Consider the specific needs of your hair and choose products that will address those needs without weighing your hair down. For example, if you have fine hair, you may want to use a lightweight mousse or a texturizing spray, while someone with thick, curly hair may need a heavier product to control frizz and define curls.

If you do use multiple products, make sure they are compatible with each other and don't have conflicting properties. For example, using a volumizing spray and a heavy, smoothing serum may not work well together, as they have different goals and can cancel each other out.

• Get Regular Trims

Regular trims are an important part of keeping your hair healthy and looking its best. When hair grows, the ends can become damaged and split, which can lead to breakage and frizz. Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks can help to prevent split ends and keep your hair looking smooth and healthy.

Additionally, getting regular trims can help to promote healthy hair growth. When the ends of your hair are split or damaged, they can continue to break up the hair shaft, leading to shorter, thinner hair. Trimming off the damaged ends can encourage healthy hair growth and prevent further damage.

• Use A Sulfate-Free Dry Shampoo 

Dry shampoo is a powder or spray that is used to soak up oil and dirt from your hair and scalp, without the need for water. It is a quick and convenient way to refresh your hair between washes, especially if you have a busy schedule or are traveling.

Sulfate-free dry shampoo is preferred over regular dry shampoo because it does not contain harsh sulfates that can strip your hair of natural oils and cause dryness. Sulfates are a type of detergent commonly found in shampoos and other hair products that create a foaming lather. However, they can also be harsh on your hair and scalp, especially if you have sensitive skin.

• Use A Microfiber Towel 

Using a microfiber towel or a cotton t-shirt to dry your hair is a great way to avoid unnecessary damage and breakage. Regular towels can be too rough on your hair, causing it to become frizzy, tangled, and damaged. Microfiber towels and cotton t-shirts, on the other hand, are much gentler on your hair and can help to keep it looking healthy and shiny.

Microfiber towels are made from a synthetic blend of polyester and polyamide, which makes them incredibly absorbent and soft. They are also lightweight and easy to use, making them a popular choice for people with all hair types. To use a microfiber towel, simply wrap it around your head and gently pat your hair dry. Avoid rubbing or twisting your hair, as this can cause breakage and damage.

Cotton t-shirts are another great option for drying your hair. They are soft, absorbent, and gentle on your hair, making them a good choice for people with delicate or damaged hair. To use a cotton t-shirt to dry your hair, simply wrap it around your head and gently squeeze your hair dry. Avoid rubbing or twisting your hair, as this can cause breakage and damage.

• Avoid Using Hot Water

Avoiding hot water is an important step in maintaining healthy hair. While hot water can be relaxing and feel great on your skin, it can be damaging to your hair. Hot water can strip your hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Over time, this can lead to split ends, frizz, and overall damage to your hair.

To avoid using hot water, try using lukewarm or cool water when you wash your hair. This will help to keep your hair hydrated and healthy, without stripping it of its natural oils. If you're used to taking hot showers, it may take some time to adjust to cooler water, but your hair will thank you in the long run.

Conclusion

Taking care of your hair naturally doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. By incorporating these 21 simple and effective tips into your daily routine, you can promote healthy hair growth and achieve beautiful, shiny locks without relying on harsh chemicals or expensive treatments. It may take some time to see the results you want from your hair care routine, so be patient and consistent. With a little bit of effort and the right approach, you can take control of your hair's health and achieve the beautiful, natural-looking hair you've always wanted.