To Improve the Hair

Sun (Auckland), Volume II, Issue 560, 12 January 1929, Page 19

To Improve the Hair

Tonics, Massage and Shampoos

The ultra-small, tight-fiitiug hats, which have been our favourites for so long, must be held responsible for many of our hair troubles. In autumn the hair naturally falls a little, but at any other time an excessive fall is a sign that something is wrong, and that the scalp needs attention if the hair is not to be allowed to become impoverished per m'anently. A hair tonic, suited to the special needs of each individual head, should be used, for dry hair and greasy require totally different tonics if the best results are to be obtained But, whatever type of tonic is employed, the scalp should be thoroughly massaged before it is dabbed on. Half the benefit obtained from the use of a tonic is due to the massage given when applying it. Why Hair Falls Loss of hair may be due to many different reasons, generally health being one among the many. But the most frequent cause nowadays is ner vous strain, and it is when this is the case that massage is of so great benefit. Massage stimulates the blood vessels beneath the scalp, which have become weakened through nerve strain, and so strengthens the hair roots. The condition of the hair, like the state of the coat of a horse or dog. is invariably an indication of one’s general health. Neglected teeth and pyorrhea are. though seldom suspected. a frequent cause of loss of hair. When this is so. nothing will really benefit the liair till the cause

has been removed, and a dentist should be consulted before the advice of a hair specialist is sought. The Treatment for Dry Hair Hair that has become too dry is not only liable to excessive falling, but there is sure to be a pronounced tendency toward premature greyness. If your hair is dry, and becomes harsh and brittle a few days after it has been shampooed, you may be sure that it stands in need of a hot oil treatment. Every time you shampoo it. give a hot oil massage before you start. Olive oil is best for the purpose. and it should be thoroughly heated. ltub it well into the scalp, minutes before shampooing. The* and allow to remain for at least 15 object of the oil application is to minimise the drying effect of the shampoo. The old-fashioned egg shampoo is ideal for dry hair, and a teaspoon of white wine vinegar should be added to the last rinsing water. Very greasy hair should be treated with a spirit lotion before shampooing. Always give at least three rinsings after the shampoo, and have the water for each slightly cooler than the last, until the third is merely lukewarm. Never wring the water out of the hair. Sop it out with a towel. The very best thing with which to dry the hair is a piece of silk stockinette. It is far better than a towel, for there is no fluff to rub off on the hair, and it leaves it very soft and silky-looking, and in a far more satisfactory condition for re setting the waves.