I look back to years past when I was plagued with an incredible amount of shedding. Because of my relaxer touch-up schedule, I normally relax at the end of the year. So year after year, I would
Not this year though. I think I have learned some tricks to help thwart my shedding. I intend to employ these techniques whole heatedly starting now. My focuses will be simple. It's really all about making sure my scalp is well cared for while ensuring adequate circulation to the hair follicle.
Already, I'm noticing an increase flakes and dryness in my scalp. This is not okay. I see it as a sign of impending danger. So I am taking the first step in my plan to prevent excessive shedding by increasing my water intake. It's not as hot as it used to be and I'm noticing the need to drink lots of water is subsiding. So I have decided to become more regimented in my water drinking. Which means going back to having clear goals around how much water I consume. Right now, I shoot for 2 liters or more a day. Another reason why I'm drinking lots of water is maintain proper circulation throughout my body. I have a sneaky suspicion that our circulation isn't as high in fall/winter season as in summertime which could be a factor in the shedding.
Another reason why I'm ramping up the water intake is because I'm constantly reminded of a conversation I had with a friend. She told me that her stylist was always able to tell when she wasn't drinking enough water based on the condition of the scalp. Then I think about some of the experiences shared on a forum when they challenged themselves to drink more water. Several stated that their hair began to hold moisture better, others talked improved skin benefits, etc. We, too, shall drink our water so we can experience all of that and more!
Along with the additional water intake, I also focusing on manual stimulation/circulation as well. For over a month, I've challenged myself to exercise my scalp daily. This could include massages, scalp brushing, and even hair pulling. Whatever I takes to bring more blood flow, I'm with it! Whenever I consistently exercise my scalp, my shedding decreases. So, I'm committed to keep this up throughout the rest of the year.
A couple of other things I will keep doing is stimulating the scalp with essential oils on wash days (and more frequently if necessary). Then I also need to make sure I drink lots of bamboo tea throughout fall and winter months. The tea contains hair healthy nutrients that help my hair and scalp tremendously. Back in my vitamin rotation is cayenne pepper which is amazing at increasing internal circulation on so many levels.
I've already employed these strategies and so far, so good. I look forward to completing the fall/winter season without the paralyzing fear of having to battle unnecessary shedding. Wish me luck.
