Why Icebaths are the next big hair trend!
Ice baths aren't just for athletes or trending videos on Tik Tok —your hair can reap significant benefits from a chilly rinse or bath as well. Once you read the below, you probably won't have a hot rinse again!
But, why is it good for your hair? Here is why:
1. Seals the Cuticle: Cold water helps to close the hair cuticle, which lies flat when sealed. This creates a smoother surface, reducing frizz and enhancing shine by allowing light to reflect off the hair more effectively.
2. Enhances Shine: By sealing the cuticle, cold water traps the hair's natural oils and moisture, leading to a glossier, healthier appearance. This can make your hair look more vibrant and lustrous.
3. Reduces Frizz: A closed cuticle means less frizz. Cold water helps to lock in moisture and minimize the swelling of hair strands, which can be exacerbated by heat, leading to smoother, more manageable hair.
4. Increases Blood Circulation: The cold temperature stimulates blood circulation to the scalp, promoting healthy hair growth and potentially reducing hair loss by ensuring hair follicles receive necessary nutrients.
5. Enhances Hair Color: For those with colored hair, cold water can help maintain the vibrancy of your color. Hot water can strip away color-treated hair’s dye molecules faster, while cold water helps to lock in the color.
6. Tightens the Scalp: An ice bath can help tighten the scalp, making hair roots more firm. This can potentially lead to stronger hair growth and less hair fall.
How to Do It: After your usual shampoo and conditioner routine with warm water, switch to a cold rinse for the final 30 seconds to a minute. This quick blast of cold water will seal the cuticle and lock in the benefits. Or you can do a full ice bath for 5-15 minutes.
Incorporating a cold rinse or ice bath into your hair care routine can lead to shinier, healthier, and more manageable hair, giving your tresses a fresh, revitalized look.
But, you might be thinking now...will a hot shower be bad for my hair?
Yes, really hot water can be bad for your hair. Here's why:
- Strips Natural Oils: Hot water can strip your scalp and hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and potential damage.
- Weakens Hair: Excessive heat can weaken the hair strands, making them more prone to breakage and split ends.
- Affects Color-Treated Hair: If your hair is color-treated, hot water can cause the color to fade more quickly.
- Scalp Issues: Hot water can irritate the scalp, potentially leading to dryness, itching, and dandruff.
So, try stick to lukewarm to warm water with a cold rinse or ice bath once a week for beautiful hair results!
Source: (Nakamura, M., et al. "The effect of icing on muscle damage following exercise." Journal of Physiological Anthropology, 2003).
