Maintaining healthy hair and scalp can be challenging for women who wear the hijab, especially in Singapore’s hot and humid climate.
Knowing what to do and what to avoid in hair care can help prevent common issues such as dryness, dandruff, and hair loss, ensuring your hair remains healthy and strong.
Here are some valuable hair care tips for our hijab-wearing patrons.
Keep your hair and scalp moisturised, not oily
Keeping the right balance of moisture is crucial for healthy hair and scalp. A humid climate can cause excessive sweating, producing oily hair and scalp. On the other hand, wearing a hijab for long periods can cause your hair to become dry and brittle.
To keep your hair and scalp moisturised:
- Use a lightweight, hydrating shampoo and conditioner.
- Choose products that contain natural oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba oil, which can nourish your hair without making it greasy.
- After a hair wash, apply a leave-in conditioner or a hydrating serum to seal in moisture.
It’s also important to moisturise your scalp regularly. To keep it hydrated, use a water-based scalp spray. Avoid heavy oils, which can clog your pores and lead to scalp issues.
Do not wear hijab when your hair is still wet
Wearing a hijab over damp hair can create a warm, humid environment that grows bacteria and fungi, leading to scalp infections and unpleasant odours. After washing your hair, ensure it is thoroughly dry before putting on your hijab. If you’re short on time, use a blow dryer at its cool setting to speed up the drying process. You can also gently towel-dry your hair and let it air dry for a few minutes before covering it.
Besides preventing scalp issues, drying your hair completely helps maintain its natural volume and prevents frizz. It also lowers the risk of hair breakage and split ends, keeping your hair healthier in the long run.
Use scrunchies or silk hair ties
The type of hair tie you use can affect your hair’s health. Traditional elastic bands can cause hair breakage and damage, especially if you tie your hair tightly. Instead, opt for scrunchies or silk hair ties, which are gentler on your hair.
Scrunchies and silk hair ties provide a secure hold without pulling on your hair, reducing the risk of breakage and split ends. They also prevent the formation of creases and kinks, allowing you to style your hair more easily after removing your hijab.
Go for easy and manageable hairstyles
Choosing easy and manageable hairstyles can help maintain healthy hair under the hijab. Simple styles like low buns, loose braids, or ponytails are ideal for hijab wearers. These styles minimise tension on the hair and scalp, minimising the risk of breakage and hair loss.
If you have long hair, consider trimming it regularly to keep it healthy and manageable. Going for a trim every 10 to 12 weeks can help prevent split ends and promote better hair growth. Consult a professional hairstylist to get hairstyle recommendations that suit your hair type and lifestyle.
Shield hair from UV rays
Even though the hijab covers your hair, it’s essential to shield it from UV rays. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate fabrics, leading to hair damage and dryness. To protect your hair, consider wearing a UV-protective undercap beneath your hijab. These specially designed caps can block harmful rays while allowing your scalp to breathe.
Using hair products that contain UV filters can also provide an extra layer of protection. Look for shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments with UV-blocking ingredients to protect your hair from sun damage. You can consider hair treatments that reverse UV damage too.
Looking for a muslimah-friendly hair salon in Singapore?
Wearing a hijab in Singapore’s climate requires a thoughtful approach to hair care. To maintain your hair health, we recommend following the hair care tips outlined in this article.
For professional hair care services, consider visiting TrichoLab. We are a Muslimah-friendly environment and have private rooms for hijab wearers. With the proper care and attention, your hair can remain vibrant and strong, even under the hijab.
