What is healthy hair?

What does the hair industry show you when they depict healthy hair? Its shiny, glossy and, more than, likely straight and flowy. But is this really the tried and true, one size fits all definition of healthy hair? Well if you relied on media, then yes, you might think it is. These days we are seeing hair with pattern and texture but still within a glossy, shiny “perfected” box. What exactly does or can healthy hair look like? We’re going to break down the misconceptions and get to the heart of what healthy hair truly means.

Busting media myths

There are two main categories that you should note when looking at promoted “healthy hair”. One is airbrushing and filters and the second is diversity.

Airbrushing and Filters: These create unrealistic expectations of “healthy hair”. In the same way that clothing companies created body image issues, the hair category has over utilized photoshop to sell an unrealistic and unsustainable picture of healthy hair.

Diversity in Healthy Hair: For the longest time curly hair has been associated with “unruly”, “damaged” and “unprofessional”. The reality is that media predominately showed the 3 characteristics to push product.

1. Glossy hair
2. Long hair
3. Straight hair

If you didn’t naturally have the above, then of course you felt that your hair was “bad” or “unhealthy”. The fact is majority of the population does not fit this category. We are seeing better representation of ethnicities, hair pattern and hair texture these days, but it’s not good enough and I want you to be aware of this. I could spend hours talking about this point because it truly has had a huge impact on the hair industry and on individuals. Just because you don’t see your hair type or texture in represented, does not mean it is not good enough. I encourage you to challenge the one-size-fits-all definition of healthy hair.

What are the characteristics of healthy hair?

Shine and Luster: I’m not talking about the insane gloss effect that you see in commercials. I’m referring to hair that has a natural shine to it indicating well-moisturized strands. The shine (varies depending on hair texture and pattern) is an indication that the outer hair cuticle is laying flat and therefore reflecting light. Adequate hydration, a balanced scalp, and nourishing oils contribute to this quality.

Elasticity and Strength: The science behind strong, healthy hair lies in its elasticity. Hair with optimal elasticity can stretch and return to its original state without breakage. This strength is attributed to a balance of proteins, particularly keratin, and moisture. Adequate protein intake, protective hairstyles, and avoiding excessive heat or chemical treatments maintain this crucial elasticity.

Ready to start taking care of your hair? Click here to steps you should incorporate

Texture and Thickness: Scientifically, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to healthy hair texture. Hair can be straight, wavy, curly, or coily and be healthy. The key lies in maintaining the integrity of the hair shaft, irrespective of its natural texture. Thickness is influenced by genetics, diet, and overall hair care practices, rather than conforming to societal norms.

In Conclusion

Take care of YOUR hair. The more you learn about your own hair the better you’ll be able to take care of it. I want you to look for whether your hair has a natural shine and if it has elasticity and strength? There is no one size fits all with hair and hair care.