Unveiling the Hidden Potential of Cornstarch for Stylists
You're no stranger to cornstarch's place in the kitchen, but did you know it's a secret weapon for hair too? This unassuming kitchen staple is more than just a stand-in for dry shampoo; it's a versatile ingredient that can work wonders for your clients' hair. Let's delve into the world of cornstarch and explore how it can become your go-to solution for various hair concerns.
Ingredient Spotlight: Absorbent
Key Advantages: Boosts volume, extends the gap between washes, sops up excess oil, and tames unruly frizz
Ideal for: Clients with oily hair, straight or wavy hair, and loose curls. Not recommended for those with tight curls or coils, sensitive scalps, or dry hair types.
Frequency of Use: Daily to weekly
Great Companions: Baking soda, coconut oil
Not Compatible With: Dry shampoo.
What Exactly Is Cornstarch?
Cornstarch is that soft, white powder you often find in your kitchen, commonly used for cooking as a flour substitute or thickening agent. But its potential doesn't end there – it can be hair's best friend.
The Magic of Cornstarch for Hair
Cornstarch boasts a range of incredible benefits for hair, with its most notable strengths being oil absorption, protective shield creation, and volume enhancement. Let's delve into its remarkable attributes:
Sebum Management: Cornstarch is a true ally in combating sebum overproduction, especially for clients with oily hair and scalps. Its remarkable oil-absorbing properties help keep excess oil and sebum in check. The fine, powdery texture of cornstarch acts like a sponge, clinging to the oils that can make hair appear greasy and lifeless.
Soothing Scalp: If your clients experience an itchy scalp, cornstarch could be the answer. It's known for alleviating irritation and itchiness, making it a great choice for those with sensitive or dandruff-prone scalps.
Locking in Moisture: Cornstarch forms a protective barrier when applied to hair, sealing in essential moisture. This is crucial for preventing excessive moisture loss, reducing dryness, frizz, and damage. Additionally, it helps the cuticle lay flat, especially effective in combating frizz during humid weather.
Amping Up Volume: Clients with fine or thin hair seeking fuller, more voluminous locks will love cornstarch. It imparts noticeable volume by lifting the roots and adding fullness to the hair.
Prolonging Time Between Washes: On those days when your clients want to skip washing their hair, cornstarch comes to the rescue. It works wonderfully as a natural dry shampoo, refreshing the hair and extending the intervals between washes.
Chemical-Free Alternative: Unlike many commercial dry shampoos loaded with unpronounceable chemicals, cornstarch is a natural, skin-friendly option. It's less likely to cause irritation, making it an excellent choice for various hair types and the environment.
Cornstarch is readily available in most kitchens and doesn't require any special haircare version. The regular box or container from the grocery store will work perfectly. So, when you're in a pinch or exploring at-home solutions, give cornstarch a try.
Considerations for Different Hair Types
Cornstarch isn't limited to specific hair types. While it excels with oily hair, it's also a savior for fine, frizzy hair, as well as straight, wavy, and loosely curly textures. Here's a breakdown of its adaptability:
For Added Volume: Cornstarch is a natural choice for adding volume and texture to otherwise lackluster locks. It's particularly effective when massaged into the roots, creating the illusion of thicker, fuller strands.
Taming Wavy, Curly, or Frizzy Hair: Cornstarch's texturizing properties provide grip and structure, making it easier to style and control wavy, curly, or frizzy hair. It helps define curls or waves, resulting in a smoother, polished appearance.
However, cornstarch isn't for everyone. It should be avoided by clients with dry, infected, or dandruff-prone scalps, as its moisture-absorbing properties may exacerbate dryness. Sensitive scalps may also react negatively to product build-up. If your clients have color-treated hair, be cautious, as cornstarch can leave a visible residue, dulling vibrant colors. And for those with very tight or tight curls, distributing cornstarch evenly can be challenging, leading to uneven results.
How to Incorporate Cornstarch into Your Styling Arsenal
Cornstarch is incredibly versatile, primarily applied to the roots. However, you can also use it on hair lengths for volume or frizz control. Here's how to put it to good use:
Pre-Shampoo Scalp Treatment: To control excess sebum production, create a cornstarch-based scalp mask. Mix cornstarch with water to form a paste, apply to the scalp, and leave on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly.
Dry Shampoo Substitute: Cornstarch serves as an excellent dry shampoo alternative. Massage a small amount into the roots, focusing on areas prone to oiliness or where volume is desired. For clients with fine hair, concentrate on the crown and along the parting. Distribute the product with a brush or comb to prevent white spots.
Boosting Volume: Combine a small amount of cornstarch with regular conditioner. Apply this mixture to the hair, targeting the roots and areas in need of extra volume. Rinse thoroughly for a voluminous effect.
Frizz Control: To combat frizz, create a cornstarch rinse by mixing it with water until it forms a liquid solution. After shampooing and conditioning, pour the cornstarch rinse over the hair to enjoy smoother, more manageable locks.
Considerations About Corn Starch for Hair
Cornstarch's absorbent properties have earned it a well-deserved place in the realm of haircare. It serves as a versatile solution, from boosting volume to achieving smoother, more manageable strands. While it's a natural go-to for many hair types, some individuals should proceed with caution. For those it suits, cornstarch is a cost-effective, multi-purpose ingredient that can give hair a boost and provide an easy at-home solution for various hair concerns.