As a woman of Italian descent, long, luscious locks tend to come with the genes. However, when I started experiencing high-functioning anxiety my health diminished. I was working 9-12 hours the majority of my days, traveling frequently for obligations, and had little to no sleep while I continued to outperform at my day job in addition to my side hustle. I was a wreck and my health took a toll on it, including my beautiful hair.
Prior to my issues with high-functioning anxiety, I decided to give my mermaid hair the chop and donate to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. Shortly after, I made a few major life changes and the stress began to build. My hair had literally stopped growing, I started to gain weight, and I ended up in urgent care every other month with a bad infection and an immune-destroying virus. It wasn’t until recently that I decided to take back control and focus on my self-care.
Whether you’re browsing for new merchandise or seeking a remedy for your hair’s health, I’ve personally seen a huge difference in my hair thanks to these 3 products. Here’s your “Step by Step Guide to Stronger, Sleeker Hair.”
+ Davines’ OI Conditioner
Winner of Refinery29’s 2015 Beauty Innovator award, OI Conditioner strengthens hair and protects it from the effects of aging and environmental damage, leaving your hair refreshed. OI Conditioner is created from roucou oil, leaving hair soft, shiny and voluminous. Other benefits of roucou oil include beta-carotene and antioxidants.
ProTip: Apply to damp hair from length to tips (avoiding the roots). Let sit for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly. To add extra shine and moisture, follow with OI Oil, or OI Milk. Personally, I leave OI conditioner in for 2 hours once a week or overnight and rinse out in the morning. It works wonders!
Price: $44 via Davines
+ Olaplex No. 3
Olaplex follows a simple three-step process that repairs hair that has been harmed by chemical, thermal, and mechanical damage. The best part is that you can take these salon products into the comfort of your home. Remember, this hair perfector is not a conditioner… So how should you use it?
Apply a generous amount to towel-dried hair and comb through. Leave Olaplex on for a minimum of 10 minutes. Keep in mind, the longer it’s on, the more effective it is. Personally, I’ll leave Olaplex No.3 in for a minimum of 2 hours before rinsing it out. Sometimes, I’ll apply it before using OI Conditioner as well. Can you say #selfcaresunday?
ProTip: Next time you go to your salon, request your hairdresser use Olaplex No.1 and No.2 on hair prior to reduce chemical damage and breakage before incorporating No.3. While this is not a requirement to start using No. 3, this process will ensure best results for stronger, sleeker hair.
Price: $30.00 via Olaplex
+ DIY hot oil hair treatment
In addition to hair perfectors and conditioners, I love creating my own at home oil treatment. This not only moisturizes dry, damaged hair, but it works wonders for your skin and scalp. It’s simple, all you need is your average at home olive oil, coconut oil, or both.
Mix oils in a glass bowl for enriched results. Heat oil(s) in the microwave for 15-30 seconds. Make sure oil is cool enough before applying to ensure there are no burnt scalps during this process. Apply from scalp to ends of hair. Once you’ve applied, comb through and gently massage scalp to moisten. Fun fact, massaging your scalp can actually help stimulate the roots, promoting healthy hair growth.
ProTip: Add local honey to the mix! I personally haven’t tried this yet, but companies including, Lush, add honey to the oil mix to retain moisturized hair. Blogger, Meg O. on the go also adds local honey to the mix of her at home oil treatment.
Price: Varies. Visit your local grocery store or check out Thrive Market today!