Baking soda... for hair?

Although the team at Zeba Hairdressing can’t get into the salon while practicing social distancing it would like to share with you some ideas on maintaining your hair at home

Accessory wise, the team suggests headbands, scarves, sunglasses or even a hat! Anything like that will help. If using a hairdryer, make sure the nozzle is on the dryer to make it smooth (so many don’t put the nozzle on). And we all have loads of time so dry on a medium heat. Save your money now for a well-deserved trip to the hairdressers when this is all over.

Masks are great and a good shampoo without silicone (shop bought ones). Silicone is what builds up on the hair so when they put heat in it that’s the smoke/steam they see coming off it.

Braids and plaits are two other things you can do, and it will also pass some time. The twists and turns will make your roots less noticeable. And if you are a blond with a dark root, braids look amazing. It will make your blonde look blonder and the roots will get some texture. Head onto YouTube and you will learn a new skill.

And baking soda?

While baking soda does clean well, it may also strip the hair of natural oils, which can lead to dryness. The amount of oil in the hair varies among individuals. Although too much oil can make the hair look greasy, some oil is needed to keep the scalp healthy. Stripping away all the oil can make hair look dull. Typical commercial shampoos contain ingredients that moisturize the hair and keep it clean. Using a natural conditioner containing coconut or argan oils can help to restore moisture.

Baking soda is a type of salt and consists of tiny, abrasive crystals. The hair is delicate, and these small crystals may tear hair fibres, leading to split ends and baking soda dissolved in water helps to remove any build up of oils, soaps, and other ingredients in typical hair care products.

By stripping away this build up, baking soda can leave hair squeaky-clean, shiny, and soft. Also, the powdered consistency of baking soda makes it an exfoliant, so it can help to remove dry skin from the scalp. People concerned about the additives in commercial shampoos, or the cost, may prefer baking soda as an alternative.

Some people rinse their hair with apple cider vinegar after washing it with baking soda. Baking soda has a high pH, and rinsing with vinegar is an attempt to restore the scalp’s natural pH balance.

A person may try this technique every day, but many use it once a week. Some people who wash with baking soda report good results. However, scientific evidence does not support them. Irish hair tends to be more fragile unless you’re lucky enough to have great think. It’s not suitable for hair extensions or 12 week blow-dries since the salts break down the bonds and the products.