The hot and humid weather takes its toll on your hair! Reams are written on protecting your skin from the summer sun. How about taking care of your hair this summer, naturally?

The summer sun can be harsh on your hair, drying and scorching it. Sweating profusely can make your hair oily and may require frequent shampoos. A dry scalp is also the home for dandruff. The soaring temperatures around you make it imperative for you to keep a cool head- literally! Nothing adorns you more in summer, than a freshly washed, healthy, shiny mane! We bring you some “natural” remedies to take care of your crowning glory…

Looking to keep a “cool head” this summer? Mix together 2 tbsp henna powder ( more, if you have long hair) with 2 egg whites, a pinch of coffee powder, 2 tsp amla powder and enough yogurt to make a thick paste. Apply on scalp for 30 – 40 mins. Henna conditions the hair and is very cooling during summer months.

For the enviable shiny hair, rinse your hair with a mixture of 1 tbsp vinegar and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Leave it on for about 5 to 7 minutes on freshly shampooed hair. Rinse out with cold water.

Neem leaf extract mixed with the juice of one lemon and applied on the scalp for half hour, can cure you of dandruff. If your bane is hair fall, then try this: Mix together 2 tsp amla powder, 2 tsp shikakai powder, 2 tsp methi powder, 2 tsp castor oil, 2 tsp pate of neem leaves and 2 eggs. Apply generously on scalp and leave it on for 45 minutes. Shampoo as usual. This helps strengthen your hair and reduces hair loss.

Looking for a foolproof remedy for premature graying or dandruff? Grind 2 hibiscus flowers with a few drops of coconut milk, to a fine paste. Apply on the scalp for 15 – 20 minutes. Shampoo as usual.
Try a mixture of half cup yogurt, 1 tsp honey and 2 egg whites. Apply on scalp for 30 minutes for a cooling effect, while the egg protein nourishes your hair.

Remember, nothing works like regularity of use. If you really want to see dramatic effects, use these treatments for at least four weeks.