As we prepare for our European excursion to find inspiration for future turban collections, I find myself adding to and tweaking my ever-evolving packing list - for my hair. Yes, that's right, I have a packing list for my hair, and you should too! Hair self-care is a long game and keeping up your hair and scalp routine while you travel is important. Here is a list of items I always pack to make sure my journey is as fruitful for me as it is for my hair.
1. Satin Pillowcase
While the cotton pillowcases offered by most hotels are light and comfortable, they are also highly absorbant, i.e. they soak up all your hair's natural oils. They cause friction which can lead to skin irritation, and hair frizz and breakage. Silk and satin pillowcases keep your crown healthy by letting your hair and skin naturally glide as you sleep. The end result: less time primping and prepping in the morning before you step out.
2. Satin Turban
Satin turbans have a smooth and soft fabric that can protect your hair and scalp from breakage and frizz, while retaining moisture, shine and health. This makes it the perfect turban to wear while resting your head during long haul travel, while sleeping at night, and while doing your make up or skin care routine.
3. Microfiber Towel
Compared to traditional cotton towels found in hotels, microfiber towels are more gentle and more absorbent. They are healthier for the hair than using drying tools and they also help reduce frizz and breakage. Tying a microfiber turban around your hair is also a perfect way to multitask hair drying while you continue with your post shower routine.
4. Travel Size Heat Protectant
Using a heat protectant product before heat styling your hair can help minimize damage cause by heating tools, and help maintain the health and shine of your hair. If you plan on using heat styling tools during your travels, pour your go-to heat protectant product into a TSA approved size spray or lid container to use during the hair styling routine.
5. Cozy Lounge Turban
During travel it is common to encounter uncomfortable temperature changes - like in cold hold hotel rooms and airplanes, just to name a few. Packing a cozy lounge turban can help you remain comfortable on your journey while also keeping you stylish and presentable.
6. Detangling Brush
When you are on the go, traveling and enjoying activities, your hair can get tangled and knotted more easily. A detangling brush can help to gently remove knots and tangles from hair, reduce breakage, and make styling more manageable.
7. Activewear Turban
Whether you are jetting off to a hot destination or a cold one, sun protection is very important. Along with using a minimum of SPF 30 on your skin, wear an Activewear turban which provides UV 50+ protection for your head. Keep your hair and scalp healthy as you explore and make memories.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an amazing, multipurpose oil that can be used for: oiling your hair, moisturizing your scalp, taming flyaways, refreshing the ends of your hair, soothing skin, and even removing makeup! For travel, stick to a pure coconut oil and avoid stickier combinations like those with castor oil. With coconut oil, a little bit goes a long way. So fill a TSA approved size bottle with a dropper (for sanitary use) and thank me later!