We all want shiny, healthy, bouncy hair, but for some of us, a good hair day just ends up feeling like an elusive dream....
COVER STORY
We all want shiny, healthy, bouncy hair, but for some of us, a good hair day just ends up feeling like an elusive dream. There are too many hair-related issues standing in the way of those lovely locks we wish we had. If it isn’t frizziness, it’s hair fall; if not hair fall, then split ends. And there are so many hair care tips and treatments out there that it’s hard to figure out what actually works and what doesn’t.
Ayesha Mustafa certainly knows a thing or two about hair care. The co-founder and CEO of Hair Energy – an organic wellness brand that specializes in hair and skin care products – Ayesha found inspiration in traditional wisdom and made it her mission to introduce more people to the power of natural ingredients and the beauty of holistic wellness.
“I’ve always been passionate about health and beauty,” she explains, “but more importantly, I’ve been deeply curious about the natural remedies that have been passed down through generations in my family. Growing up in Pakistan, I was surrounded by natural ingredients and traditional wisdom about beauty and wellness. After completing my studies, I felt a calling to create something that honoured these traditions while meeting modern needs. I am a mother, a wife, and a businesswoman, constantly balancing personal and professional life. Each role gives me a new perspective on beauty and wellness, reminding me that self-care is a universal need. Through my work, I hope to empower others to find beauty in taking care of themselves holistically.”
Her dream, she says, is to inspire people around the world to “embrace their natural beauty and take joy in nurturing themselves, inside and out”, and she hopes her brand will continue to grow as a leader in sustainable beauty.
In an interview with Us, the businesswoman – and recipient of the CEO of the Year honour at this year’s Burj CEO Awards – shares her tips on dealing with hair issues and tells us how to make even the unruliest of hair a little more manageable.
Us: What are the main causes of hair-related problems?
Ayesha Mustafa: Hair problems often stem from a mix of internal and external factors. Lifestyle plays a huge role – things like stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can weaken hair over time. Environmental factors, like pollution and Sun exposure, can also take a toll on hair health. Then there are genetic and hormonal aspects, which are often overlooked but are significant contributors to hair fall, greying, and thinning. The emphasis should be on addressing hair health holistically because good hair is a reflection of good health and balance in your life.
Us: What are the signs of unhealthy hair?
AM: Unhealthy hair often appears dull and lacks vibrancy. Common signs include excessive dryness, frizziness, split ends, and hair that breaks easily when brushed. Another indicator is a flaky scalp, which can mean the hair isn’t getting the moisture and nutrients it needs. In my view, hair should feel alive, almost like it has its own energy. When hair looks and feels vibrant, it reflects well-being from within.
Us: What are the remedies for these common hair issues: hair fall/loss, dandruff, greying (premature or otherwise), frizziness, and damaged hair, split ends, and breakage?
AM: [The key to dealing with hair issues is] strengthening the scalp as the foundation of healthy hair.
• Hair fall: Hair fall can be unsettling, but often it’s a sign that the scalp needs care. Natural oils, like coconut and castor oil, nourish the roots, while ingredients like onion extract stimulate circulation, promoting growth.
• Dandruff: Dandruff can be managed with ingredients that balance scalp moisture and fight inflammation, like tea tree oil and aloe vera. A gentle approach is key; harsh chemicals often make it worse. Soothing and hydrating the scalp naturally reduces flakiness.
• Greying: Premature greying often ties back to stress and nutrient deficiencies. Ingredients like amla and black seed oil are known to support natural pigmentation. While greying is part of aging, embracing and nourishing hair’s natural state is something I believe in.
• Frizziness: Frizziness is usually due to a lack of moisture. Argan oil, shea butter, and avocado oil help seal in hydration, leaving hair smoother and more manageable. Use products that lock in moisture without weighing down the hair, letting it stay light and lively.
• Damaged hair, split ends, and breakage: Split ends and breakage often occur due to over-styling or harsh treatments. Ingredients like keratin and biotin work wonders to rebuild strength. Regular trims also help, but a nutrient-rich routine is essential to prevent damage. Our philosophy is to restore hair’s natural resilience with gentle, nourishing ingredients.
Us: What is the best way to improve hair volume and growth?
AM: Healthy hair growth and volume start with a healthy scalp. Massaging the scalp regularly improves blood circulation and encourages growth. Look for products with ingredients like rosemary and peppermint, which stimulate follicles. Nutrition is just as important; a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals fuels growth from within. We’re all about holistic care, combining nurturing products with simple lifestyle practices that promote long-term health.
Us: What can young people do to ensure that their hair remains healthy as they age?
AM: The key is to build good habits early on. Avoid harsh treatments, and embrace natural textures rather than over-styling. Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress because these all impact hair health. Regular scalp care, like oil massages, should be a staple. Invest in gentle, nourishing products with clean ingredients.
Us: Which ingredients should we look for in hair care products, and why are they useful? What ingredients should we avoid, and why?
AM: Ingredients like coconut oil, argan oil, and aloe vera are excellent for hydration and strength. Onion extract and amla support growth, while green tea and rosemary help with scalp health. These natural ingredients work harmoniously with our hair’s biology to nourish and rejuvenate it without stripping away natural oils. On the flip side, avoid sulphates and parabens as they can be overly harsh and lead to dryness, breakage, and long-term damage.
