5 hair stylist approved haircare tips for hijab wearers

Dry your hair completely before wearing the hijab

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“Much like how you shouldn’t go to bed with wet hair, you shouldn’t be wearing the hijab when your hair isn’t completely dry. Hair is most fragile when it is wet, so sleeping with damp hair only leads to a greater risk of breakage.

Moreover, the warm and humid conditions create an environment suitable for various bacteria and yeast to proliferate on your scalp. In turn, these could lead to inflammation and scalp infections that make it less conducive for healthy hair growth. Bad odour is another side effect of wearing the hijab when hair is wet.”

Use: Aquis Hair Wrap, from $53.19

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Constructed out of fabric made with recycled water bottles, Aquis’ microfiber hair towel reduces hair drying time as it quickly yet gently wicks away water without the use of heat or friction. The proprietary Aquitex cloth has woven channels that aid water removal and reform hydrogen bonds to increase hair strength and keratin integrity. Available in pink, light and dark blue.

Avoid tying your hair too tightly

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“It might make sense to tie a tight knot to keep your hair from flying out of place under the hijab. But over time, the repeated tension on the tresses would cause them to break off. Remember that even a rubber band snaps after enduring use.”

Use: Kitsch Open Shape Claw Clip, $15

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Instead of a hair elastic, consider using a claw clip to keep your tresses together. They are able to hold or section hair without slipping off while putting less pulling tension on the strands.

Don't pull back your hair back from the scalp too much

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“Tying your hair back in a tight ponytail or bun might be the most comfortable and easiest way to ensure that hair stays neatly in place under the hijab. But over time, you are setting yourself up for traction alopecia where the hair at the roots is weakened and eventually breaks or falls leading to the hairline receding.”

Use: Invisibobble Original Traceless Spiral Hair Ties in Crystal Clear, $21.62

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But for those who much prefer elastic hairbands, consider these Invisibobble creations. These spiral, telephone cord-like hair ties promise to keep your ponytail or bun in place without pulling the hair back too tightly. It also doesn’t leave a dent or mark after it has been removed.

Refrain from using products that are too heavy on the hair

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“Heat and sweat get naturally trapped under the hijab. With the hijab, it creates a dark, warm and humid environment. Combine that with hair products that are too heavy and oily and you have a recipe for unwanted microbial growth.”

Use: Ouai Leave In Conditioner, $49

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The popular Ouai leave-in conditioner works as a detangler and heat protectant as well. Use it before heat styling or just add hydration to reduce frizz and flyaways. Key ingredients include panthenol, vitamin E, tamarind seed extract and hydrolysed proteins.

Get regular scalp treatments

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“A healthy scalp is the foundation for great hair. Scalp treatments help get rid of extra buildup – dead skin cells, sebum, sweat and excess haircare products – to ensure that your scalp is able to breathe and be in optimal condition to support hair growth. Scalp treatments also improve blood circulation to the scalp.”

Use: K18 Peptide Prep Detox Shampoo, $58

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Formulated at the right pH level for hair, the sulfate-free K18 shampoo aids in removing the buildup of dirt, sebum, heavy metals from water and any other buildup left from hair products. The clarifying formula is also bolstered with activated charcoal and salicylic acid.

This article was originally published in Singapore Women's Weekly.