29 March,2011 09:50 AM IST | | Aviva Dharmaraj
Indians have the thickest, shiniest, smoothest and strongest hair, according to a recent study conducted in the US. Active! checks with the experts to find out what makes our hair better than Caucasian hair and the tips that Lady Gaga could do with
In a recent interview with a weekly US magazine, Lady Gaga disclosed that she is slowly losing her hair.
The American pop singer-writer, who is a natural brunette, attributes it to constantly dyeing her hair platinum blonde. If the results of a recent study are to be believed though, Gaga might have more than her bottle of her peroxide to blame.
US-based researcher Yashavanth Kamath claims that Indian hair rates the highest in terms of thickness, shine, smoothness and tensile strength. In the recent study headed by Kamath, Indian hair was found to be 35% thicker than Caucasian hair and was also the toughest to break. Kamath attributed the findings to the "natural home remedies" used by Indians.
Dal-roti is best
Dietitian Richa Anand however says that it is diet that plays a key role in determining the overall health of hair. "Indians tend to eat comparatively less junk food than westerners. Aerated drinks, processed foods and a greater amount of toxins in the body, all contribute towards scanty hair," she says.
The only contraindication, according to Anand, is that Indians consume relatively less protein in their diets. "Westerners tend to consume a largely non-vegetarian diet. Amino acids (the building blocks of protein) are good for hair growth. Fortunately, we compensate for it through dals, soya, milk and milk products." Another good source of protein is green leafy vegetables.
Obesity is another cause for scanty hair, according to Anand, who attributes the condition to poor dietary habits. "The more processed foods, canned and tinned foods one consumes, the greater the chemicals in one's diet, the greater the chemicals, the greater the toxins," explains Anand.
The 'secret' to healthy hair lies in following healthy eating habits. "There are no 'magical' foods one can consume. Following a balanced diet, eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and no skipping meals, all help." The minerals and nutrients in water are also vital to healthy hair help too. "With summer around, drinking 12 to 15 glasses of water from the regular 10 to 12 glasses is important."
Chemical treatments
Proprietor, Nalini of Nalini and Yasmin, Nalini Naegamvala says that the chemicals in hair colour, which include bleaching agents, can make hair a little dry.
"But all that's needed is a little after-care. Colour is never applied to the root or directly on the scalp, so the chances of the hair being damaged are minimal. And there are specific products that can be used to counteract that effect."
As far as the 'Indian' habit of using hair oil is concerned, Naegamvala says, "Hair oil is food for the scalp, as it does have some moisturising properties, but it's also the massage that boosts circulation. When we use oil in a hair massage, what we are doing is activating the roots."
Naegamvala however cautions against the use of hair oil for everyone. "When there is a scalp condition like dandruff, for instance, hair oil can aggravate the condition."
When it comes to other 'Indian' hair habits like applying henna or raw eggs, she says, "Henna does nothing much for hair, besides it looks awfully ugly. As for eggs, they smell ghastly and there are several other ways you can help your scalp."
Say no to the 5 'S' es
Dermatologist Satish Bhatia says the mantra for healthy hair is to avoid the 5 'S'-es. "Stress, smoke, spice, (lack of) sleep and (protein) supplements. Stress causes a loss of vitamins and this weakens the root, thereby reducing blood flow to the root and causing the hair to fall."
When it comes to using styling products Dr Bhatia says that they cause no damage to hair. "Just ensure you use styling products that are reputed," he advises.
4 steps to Healthy, Lustrous Locks
Select a conditioner suited to your hair type that will mositurise your hair.
After applying the conditioner, gently comb out hair to ensure even coverage.
To close the hair shaft again, take off the cap and cool the hair for five to ten minutes.
After this, apply shampoo and run your fingers through your hair at least two times to remove excess oil.
Is hair gel bad for your hair?
Before deciding on a hair gel find out more about the ingredients being used. Avoid mixing gel with styling lotions. Make sure to wash off gel at the end of the day. Excess amounts of gel lead to hard and "crunchy-looking" hair. Split ends are often caused because of dry hair. If you are prone to split ends, avoid gels containing alcohol. Experts advise using products from reputed companies.
Suicide blonde?
Lady Gaga is famous the world over for her quirky songs and eccentric fashion sense. And while she may be raking in the moolah with every appearance the singing sensation could be paying a heavy price for her overzealous efforts. The singer in an interview with People magazine admitted that she is going bald from over-dyeing her hair. In an interaction with the media, the entertainer complained about using harsh dye products to achieve her look.
