**Denver Dew: Altitude Lies Drying Youthful Hair?**
By Franklin Everett ShawThe Denver sun, the thin air, and the constant wind – they’re all part of what makes this city unique. But for many of us, especially those with certain hair types, this environment translates to one thing: relentlessly dry, brittle hair. It’s a battle against the elements, a constant quest for moisture, and a frustrating cycle of split ends and breakage. But don’t despair, fellow Denverites! There are ways to win this fight.
Denver’s dry climate, combined with its high altitude, sucks moisture from your hair like a thirsty vampire. The higher altitude means less air pressure, leading to faster evaporation of moisture. This is compounded by the intense sun, which further dries out and damages the hair shaft.
Let’s dive into a strategy for combating this, focusing on hydration, protection, and the right products, all readily available right here in Denver.
First, hydration is key. It’s not just about drinking water (though that helps!), but about infusing moisture directly into your hair.
Deep Conditioning is Non-Negotiable: Think of deep conditioning as your hair’s weekly spa treatment. Look for products containing ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients are humectants, meaning they attract and retain moisture. A great option readily available at Target or King Soopers is the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque. Apply it to damp hair, cover with a shower cap, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight for extra dry hair). The heat from your scalp helps the product penetrate deeper.
The LOC/LCO Method: This stands for Liquid, Oil, Cream (LOC) or Liquid, Cream, Oil (LCO). It’s a layering technique designed to lock in moisture. After washing and conditioning, apply a water-based leave-in conditioner (Liquid). Follow with a lightweight oil like argan or jojoba oil (Oil) to seal in the moisture. Finally, apply a cream-based moisturizer (Cream) to further hydrate and define your hair. Experiment with both LOC and LCO to see which works best for your hair type. You can find suitable products at most local drugstores like Walgreens or CVS.
Humidifiers are Your Friend: Consider investing in a humidifier, especially during the dry winter months. Running a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep can significantly improve your hair’s moisture levels. Look for cool-mist humidifiers, as they are less likely to promote mold growth. You can find a variety of humidifiers at stores like Walmart or Home Depot.
Next, let’s talk about protection. Denver’s active lifestyle is fantastic, but it can also wreak havoc on your hair.
Sun Protection is Essential: Just like your skin, your hair needs protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays. UV rays can damage the hair’s protein structure, leading to dryness, breakage, and color fading. Wear a hat or scarf when spending extended periods outdoors, especially during peak sun hours. You can also use hair products with UV protection. Look for sprays or leave-in conditioners that contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Many salons in Denver, like Matthew Morris Salon, carry professional-grade sun protection products for hair.
Protective Styling for Active Lifestyles: If you’re hitting the trails or the slopes, consider protective hairstyles that minimize exposure to the elements. Braids, twists, and buns are all great options. These styles keep your hair tucked away, reducing friction and preventing moisture loss. Before styling, apply a moisturizing leave-in conditioner to keep your hair hydrated. Remember to keep these styles loose to avoid tension on your scalp, which can lead to breakage.
Silk or Satin Pillowcases: Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your hair while you sleep, leading to dryness and frizz. Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase can help retain moisture and reduce friction, preventing breakage and tangles. You can find silk or satin pillowcases at stores like Bed Bath & Beyond or online retailers like Amazon.
Now, let’s address some common mistakes and challenges Denver residents face when dealing with dry hair.
Over-Washing: Washing your hair too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Try to extend the time between washes, aiming for 2-3 times per week. When you do wash, use a sulfate-free shampoo to minimize moisture loss.
Hard Water: Denver’s water can be hard, meaning it contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. These minerals can build up on your hair, making it feel dry, dull, and difficult to manage. Consider using a clarifying shampoo once or twice a month to remove mineral buildup. You can also install a shower filter to soften the water.
Ignoring Scalp Health: A healthy scalp is essential for healthy hair growth. Dry, itchy scalp can lead to dandruff and other scalp conditions that can contribute to hair dryness. Regularly massage your scalp to stimulate blood flow and promote healthy oil production. You can also use a scalp oil or serum to moisturize and nourish your scalp.
Product Overload: Using too many products can weigh down your hair and make it feel greasy. Start with a few essential products and gradually add more as needed. Pay attention to how your hair responds to each product and adjust your routine accordingly.
Finally, let’s talk about specific product recommendations available at local Denver stores.
For Deep Conditioning: As mentioned earlier, the SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Hair Masque is a great option. Another excellent choice is the Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask, available at Sephora.
For Leave-In Conditioning: The Kinky-Curly Knot Today Leave-In Detangler is a popular choice for curly and coily hair, available at Target. For finer hair types, the It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product is a lightweight option that provides moisture and detangling benefits, available at Ulta.
For Hair Oils: Argan oil and jojoba oil are both excellent choices for sealing in moisture. You can find pure argan oil and jojoba oil at most health food stores like Natural Grocers or Sprouts.
For Sun Protection: The Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil is a popular choice for protecting hair from UV rays, available at Aveda salons and some department stores.
Combating dry, brittle hair in Denver requires a proactive approach. By focusing on hydration, protection, and using the right products, you can keep your hair healthy, strong, and beautiful, even in this challenging climate. Remember to listen to your hair and adjust your routine as needed. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for you. And most importantly, embrace your natural hair and celebrate its unique beauty.