Author: Sarah Cole

Sarah Cole is a certified trichologist and a recognized authority in the field of hair care and hair growth. With over a decade of professional experience, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as a Hair Care Specialist and Blogger at PURC Organics. Sarah began her journey in the beauty industry, earning a Bachelor's degree in Cosmetology from the esteemed London College of Fashion. Her passion for hair health led her to further her education, becoming a certified trichologist from the International Association of Trichologists (IAT). Over the years, Sarah has helped thousands of clients achieve their hair goals through her personalized, science-based approach to hair care. She specializes in assessing the health of hair and scalp, identifying issues, and recommending holistic, organic solutions. Her expertise covers a wide range of hair concerns, including damage repair, hair growth, scalp health, and hair aging. Sarah is a regular contributor to several renowned beauty and wellness publications, where she shares her insights and latest findings in hair care. Her commitment to promoting healthier hair care routines using natural, organic products aligns perfectly with the ethos of PURC Organics. Through her blogs, Sarah aims to educate readers about the importance of using the right hair care products and practices. Her deep understanding of hair biology and the impact of natural ingredients on hair health has made her an indispensable part of the PURC Organics team. Sarah's authoritative voice and expert advice in the field of hair care make her a trusted source of information. Her dedication to promoting eco-friendly, effective hair care solutions continues to inspire and guide individuals towards a healthier hair care journey.

Derma Roller: A Better Microneedling Alternative?

Written by Sarah Cole on May 25, 2022. Posted in Blog, Skincare. No Comments on Derma Roller: A Better Microneedling Alternative?

Is the trending skin care tool with needles attached to a roller suitable for your skin type? Learn about the benefits of a Derma Roller, & how to safely use the tool on your face.

Think about a good shower routine and you can not mention exfoliation. Exfoliation is one of the most important parts of a skincare routine. Exfoliation is the process of deep cleansing and removing the layer of first, grime, and dead skin cells that form on the skin over time. This helps in unclogging pores, which helps in better absorption of products and makes the skin look radiant.

Every 28 days our skin naturally renews itself. As the new skin cells come, the old cells are shredded off. Over time this process can slow down and the dead skin cells can pile up on your skin. Exfoliation helps to break this layer down and remove the dull dead skin cells from the skin. This makes the skin look bright and radiant.

The process also helps to get rid of the dirt and grime that might be trapped in pores. This not only makes the skin look cleaner but also unclogs your pores. When the pores are unclogged, it’s easier for the skin to absorb the skincare products that you apply.

Regular exfoliation also helps minimize the chance of acne and breakouts. Alongside easier absorption of skincare products, the process of exfoliation helps in smoother makeup application as well. It prevents makeup from looking splotchy or cakey.

These are just a handful of reasons why exfoliation is so important for your skin. There are different ways of cleansing your skin that are suitable for different types of skin. For instance, a sensitive or dry skin type must choose products that might not sting or irritate their skin.

Similarly, an oily skin type might require stronger exfoliants. It is crucial to identify your skin type and choose an appropriate method.

But, What Are The Different Exfoliation Methods?

Exfoliation methods can broadly be of two types: physical and chemical. This classification is done on the basis of the components used in the exfoliation method.

Physical Exfoliation

This is much much older than chemical exfoliation and has been in use… forever or at least its components have. When exfoliation became popular in the 90s, it was physical exfoliants that were used. Most of them included walnuts or apricots. These are naturally granular and make great exfoliating agents. Similarly, coffee and sugar are also used. Even now these same ingredients are used for physical exfoliation.

For harder skin surfaces, like the sole of your feet, pumice stone and wash clothes are used. Soft scrubs can be chosen for a more sensitive skin type.

Chemical Exfoliation

Chemical exfoliation, on the other hand, consists of chemicals or acids that are to be used to get rid of dead skin cells and improve the appearance of the skin. These acids or chemicals basically work by breaking the bond between the dead skin cells making them easier to remove from the skin.

Much like physical exfoliation, these acids need to be chosen according to the needs of each skin type. A heavy or lighter concentration of these acids can be chosen depending on the kind of skin you have. Once you find the right acid for your skin and the correct amount of concentration, your skin will eventually start to look more radiant!

What’s The Difference Between Physical Exfoliation & Chemical Exfoliation?

The main difference between the two is that while chemical exfoliation makes use of chemicals to remove dead skin cells, physical exfoliation does the same through a manual process of scrubbing using fingers or tools.

Alongside this, there are medical procedures that can be used to improve the appearance of the skin. One such procedure is microneedling.

What Is Microneedling?

Microneedling is a medical procedure conducted by dermatologists. In the procedure, the skin is pricked with multiple tiny sterilized needles. This makes small wounds in the skin, which prompts the body to produce more collagen and elastin.

Since everyone cannot afford a medical procedure, Derma Rollers were invented.

What Are Derma Rollers?

Derma Roller is a skincare tool with tiny needles attached to a small roller that you use on your face. It is considered to help with acne scars, aging, and rejuvenating the skin. Derma Rollers can be used at home and act as a safe substitute for micro-needling. In the past few years, Derma Rollers have been becoming popular due to their accessibility.

This device was invented as a result of different discoveries. Around 1905, a German dermatologist, Ernst Kromayer, began experimenting with different-sized dental burs to treat scars, hyperpigmentation, and birthmarks. Subsequently, an American dermatologist, Abner Kurtin, found Kromayer’s work and modified it during the 1950s. Kurtin replaced dental burrs with wire brushes.

Alexis Carrel, a French scientist, then continued Kurtin’s work. In the 1995s, two of Carrel’s students came up with a technique for scars and wrinkles. Meanwhile, Dr. Des Fernandes introduced his theory of skin needling. He developed his own needle stamp that he used in surgical procedures. The modern Derma Roller is developed from this needle stamp.

But you must be thinking:

How Do You Use A Derma Roller? Who Can Use a Derma Roller?

To use a Derma Roller, you just roll it over your clean skin and this creates small punctures over the surface. These holes are extremely tiny and considered superficial. It doesn’t cause actual damage to the skin and is considered to be non-invasive.

There are many brands of Derma Rollers available and almost anyone can easily use one. These tools are relatively inexpensive as well. Nonetheless, it is suggested to buy from a trusted place and make sure the needles are sterilized before using them.

Sofie from Poosh explains in detail how the Derma Roller works and how to use it on your skin in their YouTube video. The video mentions how you can sterilize your Derma Roller and what size of needles you need to do. In the video, Sofie also demonstrates how the Derma Roller is to be used and what parts you can use it, and how in detail.

Safety Tips For Using A Derma Roller

When you use Derma Roller you might experience some pain or irritation to your skin. You can apply an ice pack to your skin to relieve any pain. Sunscreen, skin serums, and moisturizers are advisable to use afterward. Keep away from the area around the eyes and never share your Derma Roller with anyone else.

Is Derma Roller Worth A Shot?

Derma Roller is a safe and inexpensive way of helping you get rid of skin scars and open up your pores for better product penetration. But if not used properly it might cause irritation and pain. Certain precautions should be kept in mind to make sure that you have the best experience.

Loofah Or Bamboo Scrub? Which Is Better?

Written by Sarah Cole on May 23, 2022. Posted in Blog, Skincare. No Comments on Loofah Or Bamboo Scrub? Which Is Better?

Still using plastic loofahs? Learn how you can make the switch to Bamboo scrubs, save the environment, and up your showering game!

What is a better way to relax after a long day than taking a good ol’ shower? Be it the cool refreshing water in the summers or the warm, soothing feeling in the winters. An essential part of a good shower is also a good cleanse, one that washes away your stress along with the grime and dirt.

When it comes to cleansing, we’ve all seen, heard, and even used loofahs. Almost everyone had a loofah in their bathroom at some point in time. Loofahs are great for exfoliation and cleansing. While these bright, colorful scrubbers are cleaning our skin, they are polluting our environment. Before we get into why synthetic loofahs are harmful, we need to know how we got here.

What Is A Loofah?

Loofa usually refers to a type of fibrous sponge that is used to lather and apply body wash or soap during the shower. There are broadly two types of loofah: one, is the synthetic loofah made out of plastic, and the other is what we call natural loofah. But the question is:

How Did The Loofah Emerge?

Luffa, also spelled as loofa, is a variety of tropical and subtropical vines in the cucumber family. This gourd plant is used as a vegetable during its earlier stages. When this same plant ripens and dries up it is used as a body scrub. The plant has been widely used in dishes as well as cleaning in certain parts of the world. While the gourd had been used for household cleaning during special occasions, it wasn’t until the 1980s that the use of luffa spread worldwide.

Japan started the commercial cultivation of the luffa plant and exported it internationally. As the cleaning properties of the luffa became more and more popular, the demand rose as well. Due to the rough texture of the plant, new items like the Bathing Mitten came into being. As industries grew, the luffa started being replaced with a synthetic loofah. This synthetic alternative consisted of plastics and synthetics mixed together to form a type of looped mesh that was shaped like a fluffy ball. They can also be referred to as ‘bath poufs’.

So, What’s The Issue?

The synthetic loofahs or bath poufs are harmful to the environment mainly due to their components. On average, loofahs need to change every three to four months as they collect water and can develop bacteria over time. This creates a lot of waste. Thrown away synthetic loofahs are hard to biodegrade and get collected in landfills for hundreds of years. Even worse, these colorful scrubs could enter the ocean and cause harm to the lifeforms there. Many sea creatures and birds get trapped in the plastics or choke on them causing painful deaths.

In addition to this, the microfibers present in the loofahs are also known to seep into the drains and pollute the local water sources. These components are hard to filter and may enter your house water supply causing numerous health hazards.

What Are The Alternatives?

Well, the answer to this is crystal clear: natural loofahs or loofah. As mentioned earlier, natural loofah is plant-based, therefore easily biodegradable and environment friendly. While they too have to be replaced every three to four months, they create less waste and don’t harm the environment.

There are many variations that have come up over the years. Many companies have tried to produce products that can replace synthetic loofahs.

Brush With Bamboo

Starting off with some classics, we have the Gourd Loofah and Mayan Loofah Scrubbers by Brush With Bamboo. The first one takes after the traditional natural luffa. Instead of the entire gourd, Brush With Bamboo has hand-sized pieces that can be easily used.

Mayan Loofa is a flat bamboo scrub that can be used in the bathroom or kitchen. The product is made from the fibers of Mayan trees in Guatemala. They are unprocessed and chemical-free. At the end of their use, these products can be easily composted.

Smile Boutiques

If you want something basic but chic, then Smile Boutiques’s Natural Loofah Sponges are just what you need. These are a 3-piece set of small portable sponges that are pretty easy to use. These also come with a little tag that you can hang them by.

But just in case you want to go for something more cutesy and fancier, you could go for their Kojac Sponge. These sponges come in cute shapes and vibrant colors. These are infused with charcoal, green tea, rose, aloe vera, lavender, and turmeric extracts. The materials used for both the products are vegan and biodegradable.

Marley’s Monsters

Your body is not the only skin that you need to clean and exfoliate. It’s important to get the grime and dirt out of your face too. For this, Marley’s Monsters have come up with their Facial Round Scrubs. These scrubs are good for exfoliation but not abrasive enough to damage your skin. These are easy to hold and use and come in white and nude colors. These are a perfect addition to your bathroom aids to give you an overall cleanse-up.

But Why Switch?

Natural luffa or loofahs are just better.

All Natural Ingredients

These products are made from natural fibers and ingredients that make them safe for the environment. Unlike synthetic loofahs made from plastic, these are 100% compostable and biodegradable.

Affordable Alternative

While many sustainable lifestyle options can be expensive and hard to incorporate, natural loofahs are easily accessible. Since the gourd plants and natural fibers, they are made from are easy to produce and transport, the cost of these items is low.

Sustainable And Ideal

Due to these natural luffas being biodegradable, they produce less waste and are environment-friendly. They are also better for exfoliating and scrubbing as they contain no toxins that might get mixed with your water.

Why Is Being Sustainable Important?

As a part of the plant, it is essential we look after our earth and the other beings that we coexist with. Tampering with the ecological balance of the plant will only harm us. Excess pollution on land and water bodies is reducing the number of various species and increasing health hazards. It is our responsibility to reduce as much wasteful consumption as we can and make it a better place to live. Something as small as replacing your plastic loofah can be a small step towards a bigger journey of sustainability. Finding alternatives helps you not compromise your comfort as you make efforts towards a brighter future.

Panax Ginseng: The Star Ingredient of PURC Hair Growth Products

Written by Sarah Cole on May 23, 2022. Posted in Hairfall. No Comments on Panax Ginseng: The Star Ingredient of PURC Hair Growth Products

Panax Ginseng is a popular herbal medicine proven to help with numerous scalp issues, hair growth, and overall immunity. Learn how we use it in our products!

Ginseng Root is a popular herbal medicine that is supposed to help with various problems, including memory enhancement and physical stamina, and disease prevention. However, little is known about how ginseng root works within the body. When applied to the skin, it contains various antioxidant chemicals, including flavonoids. It contains a lot of vitamin B. Topical application of ginseng root has benefits that promote skin hydration, reduce rough texture, help eliminate uneven skin tone, and improve wrinkles by acting within the skin to bolster its inherent firmness according to research.

Where Does Panax Ginseng Come From?

Ginseng comes in various forms and is a root that can be found throughout Asia and North America. Some people believe the lumpy appearance of this light-colored root resembles a tiny human. It includes ginsenosides, a potential nervous system regenerator known as a neuroprotective. Though it is increasingly being used in beauty products in the Western hemisphere, it has long been a staple in Eastern Asian beauty.

Types Of Ginseng

1. Red Ginseng From Korea

Korean red Ginseng is the gold standard of Ginseng and the most well-known. It has a warming impact on the skin, indicating circulation and oxygen. As a result, red Ginseng can help with puffiness and age indications. It’s used in a variety of items. It’s a terrific addition to:

Cleansers
Serums
Toners
Moisturizers

2. Ginseng From Siberia

Technically not considered Ginseng, Siberian Ginseng is another adaptogen containing

3. Ginseng From The United States

There hasn’t been as much research because people haven’t known about American Ginseng for as long. American Ginseng is lighter in color and has a cooler temperament than Korean red Ginseng. When taken, American Ginseng stimulates the immune system and helps manage sPanax refers to a few different varieties of Ginseng, including Korean Red and American Ginseng.

How To Make Ginseng A Part Of Your Skincare Routine?

PURC hair growth combo — PURC Hair Growth Combo

Your skincare program will be determined by your age, needs, and available time. Follow these steps to get started:

Cleanse
Exfoliate
Mask
Tone
Use a serum
Moisturize
SPF should be used

Ginseng may be found in various cosmetic products, and it can be used at any step of your skincare program. It can be utilized in any of the items or all of them, but it isn’t required. Start with a more straightforward approach: identify your demands and select one ginseng-based product to address them. You could choose a product you frequently use, whether cream or toner, and choose a fantastic ginseng-containing product. Always conduct a patch test before using any new product, including Ginseng, to ensure that it does not cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

Applicability Of Ginseng

Face Cream – If you have oily skin, creams are frequently preferred over oils, and Ginseng is excellent in hydrating creams. Creams are often used to brighten skin and provide anti-aging benefits. It helps the skin lock in hydration, nourishment, and the serum’s active ingredients in a moisturizer form.

Face Oil – People prefer oil-based formulas when they have dry skin. Many Korean beauty brands make oils with Ginseng, which can help with overall skin health and hydrating.

Extract – People are warned against taking ginseng extract supplements, even if they may be found and purchased online. Buying a product with Ginseng already blended in is preferable to trying to make it yourself. Formulators are aware of the correct dosages and what other herbs and substances work well with them for skincare.

Serum – When people want glowing skin, serums are a great way to achieve that. Utilizing a serum containing the root may provide other benefits, such as fine line reduction.

Toner – People prone to breakouts or who exercise frequently should use toners. A toner with Ginseng allows you the medicinal properties, and you get the advantages, wiping it off and leaving a light veil on.

Through Consumption – Ginseng is available in various culinary forms. Before using it, consult a qualified healthcare expert, Chinese herbalist, or naturopathic physician, and make sure to mention any medications you’re taking. Because different ginsengs provide different benefits, it is vital to make sure you’re taking the right one for you.

As an oil, ginseng oil is generated from seeds that contain fatty acids, and fatty acids like Omega-3 supplements can help with inflammation. Although Ginseng supplements are available at health stores and markets, customers should approach them with caution. Herbal teas have long been a cornerstone of Chinese medicine as a beverage, and it can be found in various teas. If you have high blood pressure or cardiac problems, it is recommended to avoid red ginseng tea since it can make them worse.

Benefits To The Skin

The origins of Ginseng in terms of beauty are anecdotal, but recent research backs up some of the statements. Below are some of them:

Creases And Aging Symptoms Are Reduced – Wrinkles are one of the first indicators of aging that most people notice. There is evidence that utilizing ginseng-based products can help slow down the aging process. The number one thing you look for is increased circulation and oxygenation when it comes to slowing aging.

Increasing Collagen Production And Elasticity – Collagen depletion begins in your twenties and thirties, though you may not notice the effects until later. Ginseng can help the skin retain its suppleness by slowing the loss of collagen. It’s root contains so many nutrients, like vitamin D and vitamin B12. All of this leads to enhanced circulation and oxygen, as well as an increase in collagen formation in the dermis of your skin. Korean red Ginseng can help restore skin suppleness, which researchers believe is linked to changes in collagen protein synthesis.

Lowering Inflammation And Puffiness – Poor circulation can cause puffiness or irritation, leading to fluid retention. By increasing circulation and oxygen and nourishing with vitamins and minerals, everything begins to flow, and fluid build-up is avoided. Ginseng can aid, and there is some evidence to back this up. Red Korean Ginseng has been found to increase blood circulation as it may have anti-inflammatory qualities and more.

Benefits To The Hair

purc hair growth range — PURC Hair Growth Range

Hair and skin are both considered extensions of blood circulation in Eastern medicine. That’s why hair gets fuller when a woman is pregnant. Ginseng can help the scalp by enhancing circulation all over. Although there isn’t enough evidence to say that it can help with hair loss, it would be reasonable to utilize it in hair growth products. Take a look at PURC Organic’s Panax Ginseng Hair Care Range below to add organic and healthy products to your hair care regime:

1. Hair Growth Spray

2. Ginseng and Honey Soap

3. Natural Propolis Honey Milk Bar

4. Herbal Ginseng Hair Growth Shampoo

5. Hair Growth Shampoo and Conditioner

6. Ginger Hair Growth Serum & Ginger Shampoo Bar Combo

7. Shampoo Bars – Lavender, Polygonum, Ginger, Sunny Grapefruit

8. Hair Thickening Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Growth Essence Oil & Spray – Set Of 4

Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty

Written by Sarah Cole on April 18, 2022. Posted in Blog, Inspiration. No Comments on Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty

This Easter, let happy and healthy habits multiply!

Every year, half a million animals are utilized in cosmetics testing worldwide. As a result, hundreds of millions of animals suffer and die due to cruelty.

The European Union, Norway, Switzerland, Israel, Iceland, and India have actively outlawed the sale of any cosmetics or cosmetics ingredients that have been tested on animals, which is a significant win for animals. Due to these bans, companies worldwide are starting to forsake animal experimentation for cosmetics they wish to sell in these massive markets. The prohibitions come after intense lobbying by People For The Ethical Treatment Of Animals (PETA), its members, and allies worldwide, including public protests, phone calls, and tens of thousands of emails.

Unfortunately, there is no law prohibiting cosmetics or household items from being tested on animals in the United States; therefore, companies who make and sell their products here can choose to test them on animals.

Some companies and organizations are oblivious to the significant change in our understanding of biological processes in the last quarter-century. These advancements in knowledge have led to testing methods that look directly at cellular mechanisms rather than the crude and uninformative results obtained utilizing animals.

Being Bunny Bullies

Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty hare animal rabbit cage

Even though no law mandates animal testing for cosmetics and home items, Rabbits, Mice, Guinea Pigs, and Rats are used in various invasive studies. As a result, millions of Rabbits are exposed to severe eye and skin tests for pharmaceutical and consumer testing to establish product safety.

Rabbits are popular among researchers because they are easy to confine, have enormous veins in their ears for blood collection, and reproduce quickly. The damage is then recorded by laboratory technicians at specific intervals for hours or days. Rabbits may get enlarged eyelids, irritated and hazy eyes, inflamed skin, ulcers, bleeding, bloody scabs, and blindness due to irreparable corrosive damage.

After these examinations, the voice-less animals usually die of asphyxiation, neck-breaking, or decapitation. Sadly, no provision is provided for pain alleviation. Hence, most animals used in such tests are not counted in official statistics and are not protected by the Animal Welfare A ct in the United States.

Domestication of Rabbits dates back to the sixth century when they were maintained for food and fur. They’ve also been selectively bred for fur variety over the years, and they’re a popular pet. They are the most frequent laboratory animal after mice and rats. The British Rabbit Council recognizes up to 76 different rabbit breeds most often employed in research. They’ve traditionally been utilized for antibody development and as test sentinels for various items.

The Importance of Cruelty-Free Product Usage

“Cruelty-free” refers to a product that was developed without the use of animals in the testing process. Compared to other non-cruelty-free cosmetic products, cruelty-free goods are healthier and contain much fewer chemicals. This implies that switching to goods that aren’t tested on animals helps animals and means you’re using better products for your skin.

Instead of testing items on animals, cosmetic companies can always find better ways to test their products. Many companies have purposefully avoided testing their cosmetic products on animals to maintain their cruelty-free credentials. The public is more aware than ever before of the importance of not injuring animals and switching to cruelty-free products to support animal rights. Consumers prefer to purchase cosmetics that have not been subjected to animal testing. If they discovered that animals were forced to suffer for the cosmetics they used, many people stated they would switch to a different brand.

What Can Be Done To Change This?

Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty rabbit 1882699 960 720

Even though non-animal tests are readily available, animal research for cosmetics and home items persists, as hard to believe. As alternatives, manufacturers can now drop chemicals onto cornea-like 3D tissue structures made from human cells instead of analyzing how long it takes a chemical to burn the cornea of a rabbit’s eye. Skin irritation can also be tested using human skin cultures, which can be cultivated and purchased.

Research conducted on animal testing alternatives by an organization called Cruelty Free International and The Body Shop demonstrates how alternatives to animal testing for cosmetics are more ethical and reliable, faster, and less expensive than the animal experiments they are intended to replace.

According to their study, there are some basic alternatives. Tests using primary organisms like bacteria and tissue and skin cells supplied by individuals are alternatives to animal testing for cosmetics. Some tests can even be performed with the help of computers or chemicals. Animal testing alternatives are significantly more realistic. Skin and eye irritation tests on tissue and cells in laboratories can be completed in one day. The same tests on live rabbits take two to three weeks to complete.

The most effective strategy to prevent corporations from using animals is to clean up your act. This can be done by removing all products tested on rabbits and other animals from your home, refusing to buy such products, and replacing them with cruelty-free cosmetics, cleaners, and personal care items.

The good news is that there is now a plethora of cruelty-free cosmetics and household goods available in the market to pick from, including Estée Lauder, Avon, PURC, and many more. Consumers who boycott animal-tested goods play a critical role in pressuring businesses and government organizations to use more appropriate and compassionate non-animal testing methods.

How PURC Comes Into The Picture

Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty purc banner.jpg

PURC is an organic hair care line that focuses on gender-neutral and natural hair care for men, women, and children while considering the concern for the environment and animal life. Haircare products manufactured from fair-trade natural components are PURC’s specialty. We believe that natural beauty comes from natural materials.

So we ask – why wash your hair and body with chemicals that dry out your scalp, skin, and roots? When there are so many plants in nature that may be used to make natural hair and body care products. Hence, we provide a large selection of products free from animal testing and cruelty for washing, styling, coloring, and nourishing various hair types.

We are animal lovers that oppose harming animals in any way! After thorough testing, we can assure you that our shampoo bars are also safe for your pets. We care about our planet, and we hope that by being responsible and using cruelty-free products, we can help the environment and the globe by reducing the use of plastic. We work with what nature provides and add what is required. We like to give back to our earth by selling natural and eco-friendly products.

PURC is not just a hair and body care maker but a brand where environmentally conscious people such as vegetarians, vegans, and members of the zero-waste community and those who prefer a natural style can come together to build an inclusive community of hope for the future.

Easter Edition: Rabbits Are Frequent Victims Of Animal Cruelty rabbit 2174679 340 — ***It’s about time we all work together and put an end to the cruelty!***

5 Hair Damaging Accessories You Had No Idea About

Written by Sarah Cole on April 5, 2022. Posted in Blog, Hair Care, Hairfall. No Comments on 5 Hair Damaging Accessories You Had No Idea About

Hair accessories or harm accessories?

We all like to look our best. Be it our outfits, footwear, or hair. Everything has to be perfect. But sometimes the things we adorn ourselves with can be very harmful too. Many of the hair accessories that we put in our hair can actually be damaging the hair. Some of these are very common hair accessories. Here’s a list of five hair damaging accessories you had no idea about.

Hair Ties : Hair Damaging Accessories

Hair ties are one of the most common and most damaging hair accessories. Hair ties are usually made of elastic, which can grasp your hair and harshly pull it. This will put excessive strain on your hair and damage the strands pulling the hair from the roots. Putting your hair up in tight ponytails or hairstyles constantly can really put a lot of pressure on your hair. This leads to loosening of hair and then breakage and damage.

Over time, it can develop into a permanent issue of hair fall if the pressure on the hair is continued. Elastic hair ties are one of the top hair damaging accessories and should be avoided. Hair with metal bits can cause even further damage. Instead, you could hair ties made of softer fabrics to reduce the strain. Satin or silk scrunchies are also good alternatives. Not only are these better for your hair but also stylish.

Scrunchies are available in a wide variety of colors and designs and can be easily styled with most outfits. In addition to this, you can also use satin or silk pillowcases and bonnets to protect your hair while sleeping. Silk hair accessories are known to minimize frizz and keep hair damage to a minimum.

Bobby Pins

Another culprit of hair damage is bobby pins. Every time you take out these pins, some hair is bound to be plucked out with them. This hair accessory is infamous for hair fall and hair breakage. From styling hairs to simply keeping them in place, bobby pins are very versatile for use. These pins are prone to snapping the hair strands and causing hair damage, despite their usefulness.

Bobby pins can eventually lose their protective plastic end, which can become even more harmful as they can scrape the scalp and cause infection. The film on bobby pins also plays an important role and once it is removed the metal can cut into your hair shaft and affect your hair growth.

Headbands

We have already listed two of the most used hair accessories, now it’s time for another: Headbands. From using bring colorful headbands to solid sophisticated ones, we have all used them throughout our lives, but these easy-to-use accessory is actually damaging your hair. Headbands put pressure on the hair and can lead to breakage and flyaways. It can strain your hair and make it lifeless. Headbands also pressure and squeeze your head, which can result in headaches.

Wearing them every day can also cause thinning of hair at the sides. If the band is too tight, breakage can also occur in the hair. An alternative to this would be using microfiber headbands. These headbands are made from soft fibers that are known to reduce friction and limit hair damage. These headbands come in a variety of colors and designs that can be easily paired up with any outfit.

Barrettes

Any metals in the hair should be a big no. Metallic accessories and comb can tear the hair shafts and damage the hair. It can cut through strands and break them. Most of the time, hair can get stuck in the clasp of the Barretts and break. Some cheaper ones can have sharp edges that might scratch the scalp as well. The metal claws put pressure on the strands and pull them from the roots. In addition to this, barrettes can’t hold a lot of hair.

Some of the pieces are quite small and hold only a certain amount of hair. Forcing more hair will only result in breakage and hair damage. Metal clips, pins, combs, and headbands should be avoided at all costs. An alternative to these could be wooden clips or pins that might help to hold your hair properly.

Hair Jewelry

Tiaras, elaborate hats, hair chains, ribbons or bows, etc are all examples of jewelry that can be hair damaging. As appealing as these items are if used frequently can cause long-term damage. These hair accessories pull, strain, and snag at your hair ruthlessly and could tear and weaken them. There is a high chance of entanglement also. It is better to keep these hair accessories for special occasions. In fact, while wearing and taking them off, it is essential to be gentle to avoid as much damage as possible.

Conclusion

It’s high time to switch from hair damaging accessories to alternatives that will not give your hair long-lasting damage. Scrunchies, microfiber headbands, wooden pins, and so on are options that will help you look stylish yet protect your hair.

3 Ways To Deal With Hair Fall Post COVID

Written by Sarah Cole on March 17, 2022. Posted in Blog. No Comments on 3 Ways To Deal With Hair Fall Post COVID

No More Fretting Over Falling Hair.

An average person typically loses about 50-100 strands of hair every day, which isn’t a lot considering there are thousands of strands on your head. While natural shedding is a healthy bodily cycle, excessive falling out of hair can be a sign of an underlying issue. In the modern lifestyle of today, the problem of hair fall is common to all of us. It can develop over the years or start suddenly. From stress to unhealthy diet to pollution, there are many factors that contribute to this.

Usual signs of hair fall include noticeable changes such as receding hairline, balding patch, loose hair in your combs, hairs clogging the drain, and itching. Hair fall is extremely common and can be found as a hereditary issue in about 50% of the population. Other than genetics, hormonal changes, and environmental factors, hair fall can also be seen as a result of illnesses. The recent addition to this is Covid 19.

Why Does Hair Fall Happen?

A typical hair cycle has three phases: Anagen, Catagen, and Telogen.

The Anagen or growing phase is about two to eight years long. It is the phase where about 90 percent of the hair on the scalp is in an active growing phase. The Catagen or transition phase is about two to four weeks long, where the hair follicles start to shrink up. Nearly 5-6 percent of the hair is in this phase. The shedding or the Telogen phase is the resting phase after which your hair starts to fall. This phase lasts up to three to four months. Usually, when your hair falls out, new hair starts to grow from the same follicle soon after. The repetition of this cycle is what causes hair fall.

How Has Covid 19 Affected Hair fall?

Covid 19 is a contagious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The virus had taken over the world in 2020 and still has effects that are felt everywhere. From our day-to-day routine to our health, many aspects of our lives have changed since then.

While recovering from covid, people experience many issues that continue for quite some time. One of these issues is the problem of hair fall. While it is something that all of us have gone through, post-Covid hair fall is different and can last for about four-five months.

This hair fall mainly happens due to excessive stress from the viral disease, inflammation, and the deficiency of vitamins like B12 and D, etc. This hair fall is known as Telogen Effluvium and results in the loss of 300-400 hair strands each day. Due to the severity of the illness, a large portion of the hair starts to shed because of stress and/or shock. While the exact reason why hair fall is triggered is not certain, it is speculated that it hinders the production of cell and protein generation in the scalp.

thermometer to check temperature : fever causes hair fall

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Under normal conditions, our hair goes under its cycle of growth and shedding as usual. But when our body experiences heavy stress periods it can accelerate the cycle. This results in the hair reaching the Telogen Or resting phase faster. Due to this, large amounts of hair can start shedding off. This is known as Telogen Effluvium. This condition can last up to 4-5 months and take up to 8-9 months to recover.

How To Manage Post-Covid Hair Fall?

Thankfully, it is a temporary situation and can be controlled with a few measures and practices.

Improve Your Diet

What food we eat affects our day-to-day lives. Since Covid 19 results in the deficiency in the production of certain vitamins and proteins. It is advised to include food items that are rich in Vitamin D and B12. Include food items like eggs, yogurt, cheese, milk, seafood, etc. Not taking sufficient amounts of vitamin D and B12 can also cause issues like amnesia and calcium deficiency.

It is also advised to have food that has high iron as it can help boost hair growth. You can try different recipes that include spinach, quinoa, chickpeas, tofu, etc. You can also have roasted pumpkin seeds or dried fruits as snacks to munch on every now and then.

Take Care Of Your Hair And Scalp

It is important to keep your hair and scalp clean, but excessively washing or sanitizing the hair can damage it instead. Maintain hair and scalp hygiene while not overdoing it. Your hair might turn dry and frizzy otherwise.

Deep conditioning masks and conditioners can be used to provide the extra care that your hair needs. Massaging your head with coconut-based oil is also known to help with growth. Coconut-based oils are known for having high levels of lauric acid and saturated fats. This prevents your hair from oxidation and helps to repair damage by protecting the hair shafts.

Putting in hair oil while massaging will help improve blood circulation in your scalp, which will help in hair growth. Hair oils will also help in making the hair lustrous, soft, and smooth. It will counter split ends and frizz too. You can use oils 25-40 minutes before hair wash to avoid greasy hair yet have conditioning. Don’t overuse the oils as that might be counterproductive.

Reduce Stress From Outside

Another important step is reducing stress from all and any external sources. Stressing can severely affect your hair by forcing more of the hair into the shedding phase. Stress-relieving techniques can be practiced to reduce mental and psychological stress. You can try yoga, meditation, massages, art therapy, and so on. It is important that while you’re recovering you have strong emotional support around you. This will help in the recovery process. Reducing workload and getting adequate rest is also a great way to limit stress. Getting good rest and sleep gives your body time to recover. This can increase the speed of your hair growth.

While it may be worrisome and distressing to see the hair fall, maintaining a calm attitude is crucial. The body is still recovering and putting more stress on it will not help. Typically, the post-Covid shedding will gradually decline over the course of 6-8 months after recovery since it is temporary only. Therefore, you should try to be patient and not worry about things.

Will The Hair Fall Ever Stop?

The answer is yes and no.

While the hair fall caused by situations of illness or stress, like post-Covid hair fall, will eventually stop, your normal hair fall won’t. Hair fall is a normal part of the cycle and will happen in its due course. This is nothing to worry about as new hair grows as soon as they fall.

In case conditions like post-Covid hair fall, since the amount of hair falling is larger than the amount of hair growth, it might take some time to recover. Nonetheless, your hair should enter its normal cycle within 9 months or so. If the hair loss persists or the reason seems to be something other than this, it is advised to contact a dermatologist.

Whatever be the situation, taking care of your hair will always help you have lustrous and healthy hair. A healthy diet, reduced stress, and a good hair routine can work wonders for your hair and its growth.