Fight the Frizz

By Bonnie Siegler

March’s cold wind and static-inducing wool caps make hat-hair a frizzy reality. But Sheila Cluff, owner of The Oaks Spa in Ojai, California, says not to despair—just apply a reparative hair mask, followed by a moisturizing scalp treatment. Here’s how to make your own at-home treatments for frizz-free tresses:

Hydrating mask. Hairstylist Chaz Dean in Hollywood says, “Yogurt contains active cultures that moisturize, which reduces split ends and frizzing. Flaxseed oil is a protector and emollient that helps hold in moisture while strengthening hair shafts.” Banana adds potassium and vitamins B and C to the hair, which helps replenish lost moisture and shine; and the soothing properties of lavender calm the frizzies.
What you need: 1 gingerroot; 1 sprig or teaspoon each of sage, lavender, and rosemary; 1 peeled apple, pear, and banana; 2 tablespoons plain yogurt; 1 tablespoon of loose chamomile flowers (or 1 tea bag).
Directions: Boil herbs in a chamomile-tea base. Remove herbs, add the apple and pear, boil again, and strain. Put 2 cups of the brew in a blender, add the banana and yogurt, and blend. Apply to hair, and leave on for 15 to 20 minutes; shampoo and rinse.

Scalp treatment. “Peppermint stimulates the scalp, which increases blood flow to nurture hair,” says Cluff. Olive oil infuses moisture directly into the cuticle, shaft, and scalp, quenching dry, frizzy hair.
What you need: ½ cup of olive oil; 2 tablespoons of freshly ground lavender; 2 tablespoons of dried peppermint.
Directions: Wet hair and towel dry. Warm ingredients in small saucepan, but do not boil. Massage warmed ingredients into scalp over damp hair. Cover hair with shower cap to keep heat in. Relax in a warm bath for 15 minutes. Take cap off, shampoo, and rinse. Do this treatment once a month. —Bonnie Siegler

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