I have summarized the 5 most effective ways to improve hair, starting from the most effective. These methods make a visible difference on your hair. Please comment with your own hair-improving tips.
Replace synthetic shampoos with natural shampoos
Most shampoos today have sulfates and silicones. Sulfates make hair dull and frizzy because of harsh cleaning. Silicones, such as dimethicone, make hair dull and flat by coating and building up. Carefully choose natural shampoos sold in natural/organic groceries, such as Whole Foods. Read the ingredient list, and pick shampoos and conditioners with gentle cleaning ingredients and natural oils. My current favorites are Desert Essence Coconut Shampoo
Install a water filter on your shower head
A good water filter reduces not only the notorious chlorine, but also heavy metals, which can build up, and make hair coarse. By removing chlorine and excess minerals from your shower water, your hair will be shinier and lighter.
Blow dry instead of air dry
Imagine keeping your fur coat in water. The same goes for the hair, which could become more brittle if covered by water for long. More important, leaving the hair wet for some time makes the scalp cold, which slows down healthy scalp circulation, and may cause other problems, such as fatigue.
Apply coconut oil hair mask
Remember to replenish your hair with coconut oil as a hair mask once a week. I find that coconut oil feels less greasy than olive oil. Of course, coconut oil is a better hair mask when it is liquid. In winter, you might have to use olive oil instead.
Take fish oil supplement
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil help maintain healthy hair follicles, and give hair shine and suppleness.