3 hints for natural hair improvement

Why rush off to the salon for pricey hair treatments when there are simple alternatives you can try at home? Follow these 3 helpful hints for a natural approach to colouring, styling and dealing with hair loss.

Having your hair coloured professionally can cost a small fortune. Save time and money by making your own natural hair tint using dried herbs.

• For a blonde tint, use 30 millilitres (2 tablespoons) of dried chamomile flowers. For a darker colour, use 15 millilitres (1 tablespoon) of dried rosemary, 15 millilitres (1 tablespoon) of dried sage and one black tea bag. For red highlights, use 30 millilitres (2 tablespoons) of dried marigold flowers.
• Simmer the appropriate herb(s) in 125 millilitres (1/2 cup) of water for 15 minutes. Strain, cool, add to 125 millilitres (1/2 cup) of mild shampoo and then work through your hair. Leave the mixture on for 5–10 minutes, or for longer if you want a stronger effect. Rinse.
• The longer you steep the herbs, the darker your hair colour. The intensity of the colour and how long it lasts will depend on factors such as your hair's texture and the strength and age of the herbs.

Rather than buying expensive commercial hair products or equipment, try these simple styling solutions.

• Smooth very thick and unruly hair by rubbing one or two drops of rosemary essential oil between your palms and then stroking it over dry hair. It will condition your hair, making it easier to control.
• Wrap an old silk scarf around your hairbrush and smooth it over your hair to add shine and get rid of static electricity.
• To control fly-away hair, try this simple hair spray. Simmer two sliced lemons in 500 millilitres (2 cups) of water until reduced to about 125 millilitres (1/2 cup) of liquid. Pour into a spray bottle and spray on your hair.

Stress, dieting and prescription medicines are just some of the possible causes of hair loss. Any sudden hair loss may be a symptom of a serious health disorder. If this occurs, see your doctor.

• To disguise thinning hair, crack an egg over your hair, massage it in well and then rinse thoroughly. Since egg is basically protein, it coats your hair and will help give it more life and body.
• To help ward off thinning hair, drink nettle tea and also use the tea as a final rinse on your hair. Used traditionally as a hair tonic, dried stinging nettles are available from most health food shops.
• If you are beginning to suffer from baldness, consider taking mineral silica tablets. Silica has a long history of helping hair and nails to grow. Make sure you follow the recommended dosage on the packet.

Save your time and money by getting the hair results you want at home with these natural DIY solutions!