How To Keep Your Hair Clean When Flying.

 

It is summer and I do a lot of flying.  In order to get anywhere, I have to fly, otherwise I spend something like 4 to 5 days just to get to the next state.  I've noticed that by the end of the first day of flying, my hair feels like dead straw that is ready to be thrown into the garden to enrich the soil.  Honestly, it's only been recently, I've learned how to take care of my hair when flying.

Although airplanes are great at circulating air, the air tends to be extremely dry which is not good for your hair.  In fact, the lack of fresh clean air in the cabin can really dry out your hair.  In addition, it can leave your hair filled with static so you resemble Frankenstein. 

It is strongly recommended that you wash your hair, just before you leave so you begin the journey with clean hair.  This feels contrary to my mother always telling me to make sure my hair was dirty because it couldn't get any worst.  Always clean your hair with a gentle shampoo and conditioner to get rid of all that oil and dirt.  Once it's clean, avoid any and all heavy styling products such as gels, serums, and waxes. When you use these types of styling products, their heaviness can weigh your hair down, and make it look greasier.

Keep some dry shampoo in your carryon so you can freshen your hair during the flight or on the ground between flights.  When you use dry shampoo, apply it to the roots and massage it in to absorb any extra oils while adding volume. It is important to comb or brush your hair to distribute the product more evenly across the hair.  Think about putting your hair into a bun or have it tied up to prevent it from tangling, while minimizing contact with headrests and seats. It is best to use scrunchies or hair friendly elastic bands as they cause less damage.

Speaking of combs or brushes, put a wide toothed comb or brush in your carryon so you can gently comb your hair free of knots while distributing the naturally forming oils. In addition, think about wearing a silk scarf or hat on your hair to provide an additional protection from the air, headrests, or seats. Silk is a material that is quite gentle on your hair so it helps minimize frizz and breakage.  

Always drink lots of liquids such as water on the plane to help keep you hydrated. When you are hydrated, your hair is less likely to dry out and become damaged. Water is recommended over alcohol or highly caffeinated drinks which can contribute to dry hair.

Finally try to avoid touching your hair during the flight because your fingers and hand transfers oil and dirt to our hair, making it look dirty and greasy.  Follow these suggestions for better hair that does not dry out and break or become dull and frizzy.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.