When it comes to having healthy hair, you might not automatically think of hydration as important. But many of our hair woes come directly from our hair not being hydrated. Think frizz, damage, breakage, tangling, and more.
So what can you do? Pay attention to the ingredients in the products you use on your hair. You’ll want to stay away from drying ingredients like sulfates, silicones, and parabens. Instead, look for these hydrating ingredients to help you have healthy hair.
Cetyl Alcohol and Stearic Alcohol
It’s a common misconception that all alcohol is bad for your hair. And you certainly shouldn’t use most alcohol on your hair. For example, many finishing sprays contain isopropyl alcohol, which is super drying. But plant-based alcohols like cetyl alcohol and stearic alcohol are considered fatty alcohols, and they actually condition your hair.
Aloe Vera
If you’ve ever turned to aloe vera after a sunburn, you know how soothing and hydrating it is to your skin. And it works the same wonders on your hair. Aloe hydrates your hair and reduces excess oil at the same time. So if you have the trifecta of oily roots, dry ends, and dandruff, this is definitely one ingredient you want to take advantage of!
Shea Butter
You’re probably familiar with shea butter in lotion. The fat derived from the nut of the African Shea tree has found its way into a multitude of products because it’s so moisturizing. It’s even eaten in some African countries! And it turns out, shea butter is pretty amazing for your hair, too. And because it’s so moisturizing, it helps prevent your hair from breaking, too!
Cocoa Butter
Like shea butter, cocoa butter is intensely moisturizing. It’s particularly helpful for those with fine or damaged hair since the oil easily penetrates the hair shaft. Cocoa butter helps protect your hair from breaking and adds shine, too. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it smells amazing, right?
Rice Bran Oil
If you’re constantly battling frizzy hair, this is one ingredient you’ll definitely want to keep an eye out for. Rice bran oil is loaded with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which condition and moisturize your hair. And when your hair is able to hold on to the moisture it needs, it’s less likely to become frizzy. Plus, it even helps protect your hair from UV rays. Pretty awesome, right?
Rice Water
That’s right; we saved the best for last. Viori was inspired by the Red Yao women of Longsheng, who tutored us in the methods of hair care they’ve used for centuries to achieve their legendary long, healthy locks. Their secret? Longsheng rice water.
Although the Red Yao has relied on rice water for generations, researchers have only recently started to study it. As it turns out, rice water is loaded with beneficial compounds. It contains minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins, including vitamins B3, B8, and B9, which help nourish and strengthen your hair. And it coats your hair, helping to keep moisture and all those nutrients inside your hair, where they belong.
We all want healthy, beautiful hair. The ingredients you use matter, so next time you’re shopping for hair products, make sure to read the label. Use these moisturizing ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to the gorgeous, healthy tresses you’ve always wanted.
Have questions about Viori’s ingredients? Read more here.
