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CBD Hype Hits Haircare

The growing popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) has sparked some serious debate. Many fans of the product swear that it has cured ailments such as insomnia and anxiety. Is the hype justified? Or have we been fooled by this generation’s snake oil salesmen?

Thanks in large part to much more relaxed laws concerning cannabis, scientists have been able to legitimize quite a few of the medicinal claims surrounding this magic oil.

Brands in the know, both big and small, are clamouring to infuse their products with CBD in some way, shape, or form. Barneys even opened an exclusive cannabis lifestyle shop in Beverly Hills. Mega retailers like CVS and Walgreens are following their lead.

We’ve seen CBD creep its way onto shelves in just about every other wellness market- and now the hair industry is raving about the miraculous benefits of the oil as a luxury beauty ingredient.

If like me, you’re a bit skeptical about this trend, I think it’s high time we take a closer look.

CBD, short for cannabidoil, is a chemical compound from the cannabis sativa plant, also known as marijuana or hemp, according to the US National Library of Medicine.

It is a naturally occurring substance that’s used in products like oils and edibles to impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. Unlike it’s cousin, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the major active ingredient in marijuana, CBD is not psychoactive.

CBD might also be effective in fighting acne as it helps reduce the production of sebum in the skin. Additionally, studies indicate that cannabidiol may be effective in treating eczema and psoriasis as well.

Our bodies actually make our own cannabis-type chemical called anandamide, aka the “bliss molecule”. CBD elevates our anandamide levels, which has proven anti-inflammatory effects. Most of the media buzz has come from its use in controlling treatment-resistant epilepsy, and there is ongoing research supporting its benefits in treating anxiety and providing a safer alternative for chronic pain management.

coconut oil

A natural hair growth stimulant + contains antibacterial properties.

Hemp-Derived CBD

Contains regenerative benefits for hair and scalp. It helps to soothe + calm irritation on scalp.

Moringa Oil

Nourishes hair + scalp with essential fatty acids + vitamins. Provides hair with softness + shine.

Peppermint and Eucalyptus Oil

Stimulates microcirculation + invigorates scalp.

SPOTLIGHT:

SUPER GARDEN by R+CO

A wellness-forward way to wash. Infused with hemp-derived CBD, this shampoo instills a sense of calm — and beautiful hair. Boasting a unique blend of hydrating and invigorating oils, it gently cleanses, without disrupting your scalp’s natural balance. This nourishing, sensorially appealing daily cleanser is ideal for all hair types.

Bonus-it smells delicious! Dark Waves is my favorite R+Co fragrance with notes of cardamom, pineapple, tangerine, lavender, and bamboo.

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High in vitamin E and fatty acids, CBD Oil nourishes the scalp and strengthens hair, thereby encouraging hair growth.

By now, we have been witness to an infused version of everything from toliet paper to lubricant, but we still don’t know enough about the actual benefits when CBD is applied topically.

Cannabidoil contains analgesic (pain-killing) properties. Research is finding more evidence that it can be used to treat dry skin, psoriasis, and eczema-which explains the explosion in the skincare sector.

Inside CBD Oil are omega-3, omega-6 and the omega-9 acids, which according to CBD Century help improve the quality of the scalp tissue. Stronger scalp tissue means hair follicles expanding faster which means longer hair.

While I’m not running out to buy CBD mascara anytime soon, I am super excited to say that my scalp feels happy again-something I’ve struggled with since moving from Miami to Denver more than a year ago. I give it the green-light.

Blondes & Brass

When you leave the salon, your color is amazing, delicious perfection. Fast forward to a month later, and just like that, your stunning beige balayage is now a bit more on the macaroni and cheese side of the color spectrum. What happened?

Cultivating a beautiful healthy blonde can be so high maintenance—it requires a serious amount of upkeep and special attention. It’s even more of a challenge when you are a natural brunette who has worked her way up to the perfect ice blonde tone.

Chemically enhanced blondes turn brassy, in part, due to the increased porosity of the hair (post-bleaching). What does having porous hair actually mean? Porosity is your hair’s ability to absorb moisture. Basically, your cuticle (the outermost layer) has been a little roughed up -causing the hair to act like a sponge and soak up everything, good and bad.

HARD WATER & MINERAL DEPOSITS

All blondes are vulnerable to the harsh effects of chlorine and sun and saltwater; basically, the elements of epic summer vacation. Pool chemicals and UV rays work together to sabotage precious strands of every color, but they’re particularly harsh on porous blonde hair. Over time, that exposure weakens the hair shaft and leaves hair more susceptible to breakage and damage—and of course, it also contributes to brassiness and (in some cases) green hair.

Not only is pool water, a brassiness magnet, but the quality of water in your shower could also be to blame. “Hard” water is water that has unusually high levels of mineral content. If this is the case- it is not helping the brass situation. Just like Brita filters for your drinking water, you can install a filter in your shower to soften your water. If that’s not an option, here are some fantastic products designed to eliminate mineral buildup and other pollutants that cause dullness.

Are you wondering if you have hard water?

HEAT STYLING

Some of us have to break out the blow dryer and curling iron just to get our hair to look presentable. If heat styling is a must, be sure to prep hair with a heat protectant and keep that temperature low! (300-380 degrees)

Becoming comfortable with a round brush will make your blowout last longer and lessen the need for a secondary styling tool. Ask your stylists for some tips and recommendations during your next appointment!

OVERWASHING

Daily shampooing strips the hair of much needed nutrients and can throw the scalp off-balance, leading to increased oil production. Aim for cleansing no more than 3-4 times a week. If you can’t stand taking a break between washes, try using a cleansing conditioner or an apple cider vinegar rinse (I’m obsessed with this one) in lieu of traditional shampoo. A great dry shampoo can help get you by between washes, absorbing dirt and excess oils, all while adding volume and texture.

USING THE WRONG PRODUCTS

Think of your shampoo and conditioner as an insurance policy to protect your investment. Neglecting to use professional products is the fastest way to undo all of that hard work. Drugstore shampoos are cheap because they use cheap ingredients. (You can read more about that here.)

Professional shampoos, conditioners, and treatments specifically formulated for highlighted hair will help keep your mane brass-free while delivering moisture, UV protection, and shine. Kick it up a notch by pairing a color-depositing shampoo with a deep conditioning treatment twice a week.

Our Favorite Brass-Kickers

FANOLA ANTI-ORANGE SHAMPOO

SUNSET BLVD WASH KIT

COLOR WOW DREAM FILTER

MALIBU BLONDE WELLNESS

YOUR NATURAL COLOR

If your hair isn’t naturally blonde, chances are you will always have to work to combat brassiness, it’s just how color theory works. Dark hair contains eumelanin, which is a dominant pigment comprised of mostly red/orange undertones.

Don’t stress, the perfect blonde is totally achievable for us natural brunettes! A little bit of planning and prep work will go a long way to get your mane ready for your next color appointment. Living life as a blonde bombshell may require a bit of work, but when you master your routine, it is so worth it.

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