Healthy hair tips

No matter what style of dance you do, there is no doubt that you spend a lot of time with your hair tightly pulled back.  I am used to the tightly twisted ballet bun, and even though it is beautiful, wearing this severe style can damage the hair and scalp.  I'll give you a few tips for keeping your hair healthy without giving up your dancer style.

1.  Don't heat style your hair, if you can help it.  Embrace your natural texture or use a no heat way to achieve your desired texture.  To get waves in straight hair, spray damp hair with leave in conditioner, then turn your head upside down and scrunch your hair.  To get wavy hair straighter, use a boar's hair brush to smooth slightly damp hair.

2.  If you dye your hair, use natural or semi-permanent dyes that do not damage hair as much.

3.  Shower every day, especially if you have dance class every day.  However, try to wash your hair only every other day to avoid drying it out.  On non-washing days, rinse your hair well and apply conditioner.

4.  Don't use small plastic hair elastics or hair ties with metal pieces on them.  Both of these types of hair ties pull out hairs when they get tangled.  Instead go for fabric covered elastics or ribbon-style ties like these.

5.  Wear your hair down or loosely styled when you are not in dance class.  This puts less stress on your hair.

6.  If your studio allows you to wear different styles than the classic high bun, change your dance hairstyle frequently.  Wear a high bun one day, a low side bun the next, and a french twist the day after that.  This way your hair will not get stuck in a rut or get stressed in the same places every day.

7.  For class, use bobby pins or clips to take care of fluffies instead of hairspray and gel.  Sprays and gels can dry out your hair.

8.  If your hair is straight and/or thin, you may not need to use gels and hairsprays on your hair for performances.  Instead, put leave in conditioner in your hair before you style it in your performance style.  For extra hold, use a sea salt spray.  You can get salt spray at a grocery or beauty supply store, or you can make your own by dissolving a couple of tablespoons of salt in warm water and putting this mixture in a small spray bottle.

9.  If your hair is thick and/or curly, you may need to use gels and hairsprays for performances.  Look for brands that are made with natural ingredients and wash out easily.  Use only the amount you need, and be sure to wash your hair with clarifying shampoo after the performance.

Share your best healthy hair tips in the comments!