You must have heard of skincare acids. Acids can add glow to your skin, break the cycle of acne, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and more. But did you know that there are also a variety of acids for hair? We’re revealing some of the best acids to choose if you haven’t yet included them in your hair care regime.
Health Shots spoke to Dr Rinky Kapoor, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic Dermatologist and Dermato-Surgeon, The Esthetic Clinics, to find out the best acids that can be included in hair care routine and can help promote better hair health.
Here are 5 acids for hair growth:
1. Hyaluronic acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is known to help your skin look and feel glowing, hydrated, soft and supple. However, using HA can do wonders for your hair health as well! Dr Kapoor says, “It nourishes the scalp and can help to hydrate the scalp, revitalize hair, boost hair’s ability to hold on to moisture, and improve the texture of the hair.” In addition, it can also add volume to the hair, making them look thicker. So that you can have smooth and lustrous hair.
2. Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a type of beta hydroxy acid (BHAs) that can be found in serums and toners. This can help to manage dry skin of the scalp and even dandruff by reducing itchiness and irritation. It also helps to exfoliate the scalp by removing dead cells. Remember to use it only after the doctor’s recommendation. Do not exceed the quantity suggested by the doctor. When used in moderation, it works without irritating skin!
3. Lactic acid
Lactic acid is a type of Alpha hydroxy acid (AHAs). It can exfoliate the scalp, reduce dandruff and promote hair growth. Moreover, it can also detangle hair, making it manageable. “Lactic acid helps to protect the hair shaft from damage, resulting in shinier, healthier-looking hair,” says Dr Kapoor. It also acts like a conditioner by improving the texture of the hair and hydration levels.
4. Lysine
Lysine can be naturally found in chicken, eggs, legumes, pulses, nuts, pork, or red meat and can provide you with a sufficient amount of lysine. This is basically a liquid amino acid that helps to formulate collagen by absorbing calcium within the body. This collagen can help in strengthening hair shafts and boosts hair growth. Not only this, lysine blocks the function of dihydrotestosterone hormone that causes hair thinning, and supports calcium regulation. It is an acid that can support growing healthy hair.
Also, read: Salicylic or hyaluronic: This is your go-to guide on skincare acids
5. Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid is the most common type of AHAs. In fact, it is a most promising and well-researched acid. It is made from a plant that is sugarcane. Dr Kapoor says, “Glycolic acid allows moisturizing and exfoliating of the scalp in order to reduce flaking and promote hair growth.”
How to use acids for hair?
On your hair wash days, you can topically apply any of these acids. Prior to shampooing your hair, apply it to your scalp. Spend 4 to 5 minutes massaging your scalp in a circular manner, paying particular attention to the areas that are problematic than others.
You can also use these acids on your wet hair. In fact, because these acids absorb water, it is thought to be advantageous to apply them to wet hair. Massage the scalp after applying acids to damp hair before rinsing the combination out with cold water and shampooing as usual. Use these acids two to three times a week for better effects.
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