If this were your hair what would you be doing with it? ?

Thank you paddyanne and Pittcity for your responses.
I am making a note of all your suggestions.

Mind you - things could be worse...

I have a microfibre hair towel, which along with regular conditioning, has really improved my hair. I leave it on my newly washed hair for as long as possible before using a wide toothed comb. No heat needed as it's almost dry once the towel is removed.
I have an underactive thyroid which hasn't affected my hair and nails.

I use Philip Kinglsey Elasticiser ,I put in on put a shower cap over it and then a turban and keep it on for a few hours.My hair is looking in good condition considering I haven't seen a hairdresser sonce last february and have been colouring it and highlighting it myself.
You can get the elasticiser on Amazon or QVC

I like the idea of sorting out knots grannyrebel mine is like a ball of dry wool at the back.

Too late GG13 - but I only Googled the NHS (sensible) site.
I will mention thyroid function tests on Friday.
No harm to get them checked if they weren’t in the bloods done in December.

Promise faithfully no more Googling.
You can disappear down a rabbit hole ...

I will add Argon oil to my shopping list as well. Thank you.
?

Another advocate for the Aussie range of hair products here. I used the shampoo & conditioner, but the detangling stuff is particularly good and really sorts out the knots. My hair is dry and curly so is always knotty.

urmstongran walk away from google

Argon oil / olive oil on damp warm hair wrap in cling foil for 30 minutes then wash/condition as usual.

I always rub a drop of argon oil on my palms and rub on the ends of my hair after drying.

Right.
Googled under active thyroid.
Convinced now I’ve got one.

Weight gain. A lot.
Dry hair.
Muscle aches.
Gorgeous face.

Okay, I made the last one up.
Going to ask for a blood test.

Hair and nail* no moths involved but months!

Like others have said Moroccan Argan oil Mask from Superdrug. Massage into your hair and leave overnight. Gentle hydrating shampoo and conditioner such as Faith in Nature Coconut, Holland and Barrat.
Don’t rub after washing, Pat excess water out. Then with your hands rub through with Argan oil hair treatment, very small amount, from boots. Comb through with a wide tooth comb. Air dry until almost damp then gentle styling with the dryer.
Hair and mail supplements will help, but need several moths to really make a difference.
Also have a blood test.

I like to apply a conditioning mask or good conditioner and leave it in overnight. You will need an old pillowcase on your pillow and be able to put of with remarks such as "Hello Medusa" when you comb it through but it seems to work very well.

Hahaha NotAGran if I had I’d be sharing it with the national press at my age‼️

I would show the before and after photos to your GP too , unless they know you very well .

I have a huge mop of hair but lost masses after having both of my sons ... you haven’t got something that you would like share with us

How tightly do you put it up and what with? I’m sure I read this can possibly damage it, but I am by no means an expert.

Weight gain is a symptom.

So many good tips & advice here ladies, thank you so much. For instance I wouldn’t have thought to put cling film over my hair before wrapping it in a turban.

And yes CalendarGirl I think I will ask the doctor about thyroid function tests. I’ve gained a lot of weight. off to Google symptoms of an under active thyroid now .....

Although that might just be down to greediness.
?

Imedeen for hair and nails as a supplement

Argan oil or coconut oil

Henna Conditioner (not henna colourant)

All good

I use a leave in conditioner type stuff that goes on whilst hair is still damp called Living Proof 5 in 1 hair treatment. It’s brilliant stuff and you only need a pea sized amount. Just wash and pop it on. Marvellous stuff.

Could you have an underactive thyroid? That can result in hair loss, and you mention having a virus?

Just a thought.

Do you use a lot of styling products? These can build up on the hair and cause many issues. It can be removed with a clarifying shampoo. Then slather your hair in a deep conditioner, wrap your head in cling film, then a shower cap or turban. Leave for half an hour or so, rinse off and squeeze your hair in a microfibre towel or a cotton t shirt. Don't rub your hair in a towel, it roughens the cuticle. Hair advice is so difficult, as what works for one is another persons nightmare! Hope you find something that works for you soon.

It is worth trying the coconut oil, I find it better than most conditioners. I would melt it if solid, and apply liberally to dry hair. Then sleep on it, using an old pillow case. Then light shampoo next day.

If it is due to poor health you might need some extra vitamins?

No I’m not on MN NotAGran. But you’re right, it does look shorter! I’ve noticed a lot of hair loss (in my bristle brush) this last month or so. To be honest I was getting worried how much I was shedding.

Thanks Casdon for another recommend for ‘Aussie’. And yes, coconut wrap Flexible - I will try that. My basket at Sainsbury’s will have different hair products.

My hair has never looked so damaged. It’s not as though I’m using hair straighteners etc. in this lockdown.

The conditioner that Casdon recommends is a good one .
Your hair actually looks shorter now than it did 4 months ago which is strange too ? Mine would have been at least 4cm longer by now .

Are you on Mumsnet by any chance? If so , a post on the S&B forum with a request for a hairdresser to help might be an idea.