Hair Expert reveals the benefits of kick-starting your January exercise regime for your mane

This January, many of us will have started a brand new fitness regime, with almost half of Brits hoping to do more exercise and improve their fitness as part of their New Year’s resolutions.

But exercise isn’t just beneficial for your body – it’s great for your hair, too.

Haircare Expert Nicole Petty from Milk + Blush, reveals why exercise is great for your mane and gives her top tips for keeping it in good shape during your health kick.

#1 A boost to hair growth

Want a great body with long, thick and luscious locks to match? Well, you might be in luck!

Studies have shown that boosting blood circulation around your scalp through cardio can help hair grow both thicker and faster and can even prevent hair loss.

Of course, a pumping heart means you can expect to start sweating. While this might not appear attractive at the time, sweating from your scalp is believed to help unclog hair follicles and make room for new hair to grow.

However, don’t leave any sweat to dry, as this can damage your hair and scalp, thanks to the extra salt and mineral residue. So, be sure to wash your hair after intense workouts, or make use of sweatbands to absorb most of the moisture away from your hairline.

#2 Happy you, happy hair

Increasing blood flow isn’t the only reason hair looks better with regular exercise – working out can also help to reduce stress, a major cause of hair loss.

Exercise increases the production of endorphins which can boost your mood for up to 24 hours. And when you feel happier, your hair does too.

Plus, a consistent exercise routine will allow you to sleep easier and improve your circadian rhythm, thanks to the production of serotonin. Being well-rested is a sure way to help reduce stress, assuring your hair is in top condition.

Although, be wary of over-exercising as too much physical stress on the body can lead to hair loss. Instead, ease yourself into an exercise routine and remain consistent to avoid shocking both your body and hair.

Tips on how to care for your hair while exercising…

Avoid tight hairstyles

While you might feel an urge to scrape your hair back while working out, excessive pulling can damage your hair follicles and result in traction alopecia over time.

Opt for styles such as low ponytails, topknots and braids that keep hair out of your face without causing too much damage.

Just as important to consider is the type of hairband you use – traditional hairbands, especially those with metal fastenings or exposed elastic, can wreak havoc on hair, especially when hair is more vulnerable to breakage during sweaty workout sessions.

Scrunchies or coiled hair ties won’t pull your hair and reduce the chance of breakage from hair being pulled too taut by a hair elastic.

Protect hair while swimming

If you’re just getting started on your fitness journey, swimming is always a great place to start, no matter your fitness level.

But while swimming is a more relaxing way to exercise, it can damage your hair if you don’t take steps to protect it.

Chlorine found in swimming pools can be drying for both hair and skin, so you may want to consider applying hair oil before entering the pool to help protect your hair. The oil creates a protective layer around the hair shaft and prevents water from soaking the hair cuticle. It also prevents scalps from becoming too dry after exposure to harsh chemicals.

Alternatively, try a swimming cap or keep hair pinned up and out of the water to minimise contact with chemicals. This is especially important if you have dyed or bleached hair, as the chemicals in the water can alter the colour of chemically treated hair.

And remember, always wash your hair thoroughly after swimming to remove any residual chemicals and use a hydrating conditioner to add moisture back to your locks.