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Relaxed hair has its own unique concerns. The perming process weakens the protein bonds of hair and can ultimately lead to more bad hair days than good ones if not properly maintained. Dryness can lead to dullness, and even worse, breakage, frizzing and tangles. An inexpensive way to solve these problems is by using an apple cider vinegar wash once or twice a week.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Hair Care
Apple cider vinegar can be incorporated into the maintenance regimen for most hair types. Its natural pH dissolves excess product buildup and oily residues from the hair and scalp. It addresses dandruff and itchiness, and for hair that tends to be dry, it thins the minimal amounts of natural sebum that the scalp produces to allow it to flow down each hair shaft for healthier hair. Damaged and dull hair becomes revived with the use of apple cider vinegar as the vinegar causes the outer layer of each hair strand to lie flat and smooth, reversing porosity and enhancing shine.
Apple Cider Vinegar Hair Wash
Obtaining the benefits of hair treated with apple cider vinegar is as simple as creating a wash, or a rinse. A rinse is usually applied to damp hair after shampooing. Used in this way, hair will be easier to detangle and less likely to frizz. If you have curly hair, an apple cider vinegar rinse can make a big difference for wash day styling.
Mixing the Solution
Dilute the apple cider vinegar well with plain water to prepare the washing or rinsing solution. A ratio of 1 part apple cider vinegar to 4 parts water is an excellent starting point, although you may make the rinse even more diluted if you are concerned about smelling like a salad. Place the diluted vinegar in a spray bottle or an empty shampoo container. It will not require refrigeration and can be kept in your bathroom or in your shower until you intend to use it.
Using Apple Cider Vinegar Washes
After shampooing, part your hair into several sections with your fingers. Apply the apple cider vinegar wash to your scalp and massage for at least a minute. Follow by saturating the rest of your hair with the solution. Allow the wash to remain in the hair for at least five minutes but no more than 15 minutes (a longer duration won't make a visible difference). Rinse your hair and scalp in cool water to further assist the sealing of the outer cuticle layer of your hair. Style as desired. You will notice that your hair is softer, shinier and more easily styled than usual.
