Hair Standing on End

Q: I am 64 years old, and I have thick wiry hair. I have some gray and I wear my hair short, because I have so many cowlicks that if I try to let it grow out it goes in every which direction. Over the years the texture has changed.

Is there anything I can use on my hair to make it softer and easier to work with? Its favorite pastime is standing on end. Thanks for any help you might have.

A: Generally getting the hair softer and more manageable is a matter of proper conditioning treatments. One of the things that may make things better is to give your hair regular deep conditioning treatments.

Do this by applying your favorite conditioner to damp hair and combing it through with a wide-tooth comb. Then, cover the hair with a plastic cap and either wrap your head in warmed towels from your clothes dryer or sit under a hooded hair dryer for 20-30 minutes. After the time is up, rinse the hair with cool water. This should be done at least once a week until your hair is softer and more manageable.

In some cases, particularly when you are dealing with troublesome growth patterns such as cowlicks, some people find that having a permanent wave service could make your hair more manageable and easier to style.

You can opt for a curlier perm or simply for a body wave. Just be aware that the perm can make your hair more porous and susceptible to dryness, so you will have to increase your moisturizing routine especially if you get a perm.

©Hairfinder.com

See also:

Hair conditioners and conditioning treatments

How to wrap a towel in turban-fashion

Perms and perming hair

How to get rid of a cowlick