Back-to-work haircare tips

Now that many employees are heading back to the office, good haircare is once again under the spotlight as that bed hair can no longer be hidden by simply switching off your camera. It’s important to take note of how a change of environment can have a direct effect on the appearance and texture of our hair.

Don't overdo it

Celebrity Hairstylist Unathi Ntakana says that over-washing can be a major problem, especially for natural/4C hair and suggests that every other day, or every 2 to 3 days is enough for the average person. They say that clean hair is one of the most important steps to maintaining healthy hair. So while it is important to wash hair properly and keep it clean, one must be mindful of over-doing it. 

“The biggest mistakes people make when it comes to daily haircare are washing their hair too often and using the wrong shampoo. People tend to neglect their scalps as well. They do tight hairstyles which are not kind to the hair and scalp,” says Ntakana. "As you step back into the office, it would be helpful to also include regular trimming to your hair maintenance routine."

Matthew Mansoor, Celebrity Hairstylist at The Hair Project, mentions that the air-conditioning in office spaces can make hair frizzy and dull. It also increases hair fall and split ends, making hair prone to damage. 

“Dry shampoo, once or twice a week, a leave-in hair treatment and a good hair oil or silicone are all definitely needed,” he says. “A top tip is to towel dry before conditioning for deeper penetration. Also remember that heat protection is vital before using any heated styling tools.” 

Ntakana believes that the added advantages of often neglected practices like pre-shampooing and oiling your hair go a long way. “It's also important to use chemical-free shampoos,” they say.

Recommended products

Ntakana recommends using Cantu products for natural/4C hair, “They are good with keeping one’s hair moisturised and nourished,” they say. Try the Cantu Shea Butter Natural Hair Intensive Repair Masque for a deep treatment that will nourish and restore damaged and dry hair. A must for curly and coily hair!

Mansoor recommends Batiste Clean and Classic Original Dry Shampoo for fuss-free, clean hair. When you want to treat your hair, he suggests Biolage Oil Renew Leave-In Treatment. It’s highly moisturising and improves porosity.

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