In Islam, hair is regarded with great respect and care. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “He who has hair should honour it” (Abu Dawood). Both men and women are encouraged to maintain their hair by combing, oiling, and caring for it regularly. However, busy schedules often make it challenging to follow a consistent hair care routine, especially for hijabis. Despite these challenges, it’s important to remember that hair care is not just a routine but a form of self-respect and honour, as guided by Islamic principles.

Here are some tips on how to take care of your hair as a hijabi:

1. Keep Your Scalp Healthy

The foundation of healthy hair starts with a well-maintained scalp. Since your hair is often covered, your scalp may not get enough air circulation, which can lead to oil buildup or dryness. Here’s how to keep your scalp in top shape:

• Wash Your Hair Regularly: Depending on your hair type, you should aim to wash your hair two to three times a week. This will help prevent oil and product buildup on your scalp, which can lead to irritation or dandruff.
• Use a Scalp Scrub: Exfoliating your scalp every couple of weeks can remove dead skin cells and improve circulation. Opt for a gentle scalp scrub or use natural alternatives like a sugar and olive oil mixture.
• Massage Your Scalp: Regular scalp massages, even for just a few minutes a day, stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth. You can do this with your fingers or a scalp massager for better circulation.

2. Keep Your Hair Moisturised

When hair is covered for long periods, it can become dry and brittle. To maintain moisture, follow these steps:

• Deep Conditioning Treatments: Incorporate a deep conditioning treatment into your routine at least once a week. You can use store-bought hair masks or natural alternatives like coconut oil or avocado masks. Apply them from root to tip for intense hydration.
• Leave-In Conditioner: A leave-in conditioner is a great way to keep your hair hydrated throughout the day. It also adds an extra layer of protection between your hair and your hijab.
• Hydrate Internally: Don’t forget that hair health starts from within. Drinking enough water and eating a balanced diet with plenty of healthy fats, like avocados and nuts, will help maintain your hair’s natural moisture balance.

3. Protect Your Hair from Friction

The constant rubbing of your hijab against your hair can lead to breakage, especially around the hairline. Here’s how to prevent that:

• Wear an Under Cap: Under caps provide a layer of protection between your hair and hijab. Our modal hijabs come with matching under caps for a seamless look. Avoid tight under caps, which can restrict circulation and cause discomfort.
• Opt for Modal Hijabs: Modal hijabs are known for their softness and smooth texture, which helps reduce friction and prevent hair breakage. They are breathable and lightweight, making them an ideal choice for protecting your hair throughout the day.
• Switch Up Your Hijab Style: Regularly changing how you wrap your modal hijab can help prevent stress on the same areas of your scalp and hair. Varying your hijab style also gives your hairline a break from tension.

4. Prevent Hair Loss

Many hijabis notice hair thinning or hair loss, particularly around the edges. While this can be concerning, there are ways to manage and prevent it:

• Avoid Tight Styles: Wearing your hair in a tight bun or ponytail under your hijab can cause traction alopecia, which leads to hair loss around the hairline. Opt for loose hairstyles like low buns or braids to reduce tension.
• Use a Silk or Satin Pillowcase: If you sleep with your hair covered, consider switching to a silk or satin pillowcase. This reduces friction, which helps in maintaining healthy hair and preventing breakage.
• Consider Supplements: Hair loss can sometimes be due to nutritional deficiencies. If you're concerned about hair thinning, talk to a healthcare professional about supplements like biotin, zinc, or iron, which can support hair health.

5. Give Your Hair Time to Breathe

While wearing a hijab offers many benefits, your hair still needs time to "breathe." Here’s how to give it the care it deserves:

• Air Out Your Hair: Whenever you’re at home, try to let your hair down and allow it to breathe. This improves circulation and prevents your scalp from becoming too sweaty or oily.
• Let Your Hair Dry Before Wearing a Hijab: Never wear your hijab with wet or damp hair. This can lead to scalp issues such as fungal infections or dandruff. Always make sure your hair is completely dry before covering it.
• Detangle Gently: After washing your hair, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to detangle your hair gently. Start from the tips and work your way up to prevent breakage.

6. Pamper Your Hair

Taking time to pamper your hair can make a big difference in its health and strength. Here are a few extra steps to indulge in:

• Hot Oil Treatments: Give your hair extra nourishment by applying a warm oil treatment once a month. Oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba are great for deep conditioning and promoting hair growth.
• Regular Trims: Split ends can make your hair look dull and unhealthy. Make sure to trim your hair every 6-8 weeks to keep it looking fresh and to avoid further breakage.
• Use Heat Protection: If you use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant to prevent damage from heat exposure. This is crucial for maintaining strong and shiny hair.

Caring for your hair as a hijabi can be challanging. While your hair is covered most of the time, it still needs attention to remain healthy and strong. By following these tips—keeping your scalp healthy, protecting your hair from friction, and nourishing it with the right products—you’ll maintain beautiful, strong hair under your hijab.