Having soft and lustrous hair is a desired outcome for many people. 

Still, various factors such as aging, lifestyle choices, and improper hair care techniques can cause damage to delicate hair cuticles. 

This damage may lead to the depletion of natural oils from the hair, resulting in dryness. 

However, there are ways to improve the texture of dry and coarse hair using simple home remedies. 

You can use a combination of moisturizing ingredients and adopt healthy hair care habits to achieve softer and smoother hair.

Read the article to incorporate the following remedies and steps into your routine to help you achieve this goal.

Ways to make your hair soft

Who doesn’t want their hair to be soft and silky? Everyone does. 

You can get your hair exactly what you want by following the measures listed below. 

Know your hair type

Identifying your hair type before attempting any home remedies is crucial. As the amount of care required can vary. 

Straight hair may require less oil than curly hair. 

The natural oils from the scalp move more effortlessly through the cuticle in straight hair. 

However, hair type can change over time due to aging, resulting in reduced natural oil production. 

Additionally, hair type can be influenced by environmental factors, such as climate and season.

Coconut oil

The use of coconut oil in beauty products is on the rise. 

While studies have demonstrated the benefits of coconut oil for dry skin, it may also possess properties that can help soften hair.

The oil can penetrate deeply into the skin and may have a similar effect on the hair shaft. 

Fact
There are two ways to use coconut oil on your hair: search for products that already contain coconut oil or apply pure coconut oil to your hair after washing it.

If your hair is too oily, you can concentrate the oil on the ends and apply it every other day instead.

Olive oil

Olive oil has been extensively researched for its health benefits when consumed internally. 

However, recent research has also shown that it can benefit hair care. 

Olive oil is believed to create a protective barrier that prevents water molecules from stretching and damaging the hair cuticle. 

However, it is essential to note that this barrier may cause the hair to become oily. 

Applying a thin and even layer of olive oil on the ends of your hair once a week using a small quantity is recommended to achieve optimal results.

Argan oil

Argan oil
Argan oil

Argan oil is derived from the fruits of Moroccan argan trees and is recognized for its moisturizing characteristics. 

While studies on the effects of argan oil on hair care are limited, this remedy has shown significant potential. 

Argan oil is commonly used in shampoos, conditioners, and other hair treatments by cosmetic manufacturers.

But using pure argan oil may provide incredible benefits for parched hair. 

You can avoid unwanted chemicals and additives by using pure argan oil. 

Like applying olive oil, distribute a thin and even layer of argan oil on your hair.

Bentonite clay

Bentonite clay is a natural substance of volcanic origin that has traditionally been used to treat digestive disorders. 

It is also occasionally employed to alleviate skin issues such as dryness, eczema, and insect bites. 

While research on the potential effects of bentonite clay on hair is ongoing, most of the available studies have been conducted on animals. 

Advocates claim that the clay can help cleanse hair while regulating moisture levels and treating dandruff.

To use bentonite clay for your hair, follow these steps:

  • Obtain some bentonite clay
  • Combine equal parts clay with water or vinegar to create a thick paste
  • Apply the paste in the shower as you would with a commercial hair mask

Use hair mask weekly

Applying hair mask
Applying hair mask

If you prefer not to handle pure oils, plant oils can still be an excellent method to add essential moisture to dry hair. 

Alternatively, you can search for a pre-made hair mask that’s ready to use.

When applied weekly, a hair mask can help your hair absorb moisture more effectively, resulting in softer hair over time. 

Apply it to damp hair (not wet) after shampooing, and then rinse it out after five minutes.

Minimise using heating tools

Blow dryers, curling irons, and flat irons are commonly used for hairstyling. 

Still, excessive and prolonged heat exposure can create bubbles in your hair cuticles, leading to hair damage and breakage. 

To minimize these risks, it’s recommended to follow these tips:

  • Apply a heat-protectant product to your hair before using any heated tool
  • Use the lowest possible heat setting that is still effective for your hair type and styling needs
  • Avoid using heated tools on highly wet hair; instead, allow your hair to air dry for a little while
  • Take regular breaks from using heated tools, ideally at least once a week, to allow your hair to recover and minimize damage

Don’t use hot water for hair wash

To enhance the softness and shine of your hair, it’s recommended to rinse your hair with cool water after conditioning.

Warning
Dull and dry hair can be damaged by hot water. Therefore it’s advisable to use lukewarm water instead.

This will help eliminate any additional product from your hair without removing moisture, promoting healthier hair.

Wash your hair according to the need

As children, we are often instructed to wash our hair daily with shampoo. 

However, as we age, our hair may undergo changes that make frequent washing unnecessary. 

If your hair is extremely dry, weekly shampooing may be sufficient. 

Conversely, if your scalp is oilier than the rest of your hair, washing it every other day may be necessary. 

Dry shampoo can be used as a quick fix to remove dirt and oil without drying out your hair.

Avoid certain hairstyle

Adding hair accessories is a simple and enjoyable way to change your hairstyle. 

Certain accessories like elastic bands are even necessary during physical activity or sports. 

However, consistently pulling and tightening hair in these styles can harm the hair cuticle over time. 

This may result in dryness and, in some cases, uneven hair loss.

Conclusion

Achieving soft hair can be a process of trial and error when finding the right products. 

Although oils like coconut and Argan, minimizing the use of heat on your hair can help soften hair over time.

Using a hair mask or plant oil can offer immediate softness. 

Still, it’s a temporary effect that requires reapplication after a few days.

However, changing your hair care routine may take longer to see results, which could take several weeks, depending on the severity of dryness or damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

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