When we think of the words ‘heat’ and ‘hair’, it’s common to conjure up thoughts about hair damage from hot tools and using protective serums and sprays. However, the right kind of heat can be very beneficial for your hair, as it can make the hair act in a way that helps it absorb products more efficiently.
Rosemary Madagwa, creator of the innovative microwaveable hair cap, the Lava Cap, tells us how to use heat in the right way in order to take our haircare to the next level.
The Lava Cap is such an innovative idea – can you tell us more about how it works, and the science behind it?
Lava Cap takes deep conditioning to new heights – it’s a reusable cotton cap that is filled with flaxseeds which are a great natural heat retaining material. After you heat the cap in a microwave for 90 seconds it stays hot for up to 20 minutes and is a staple hero product for all hair types as it helps moisture and nutrients from masks and oils penetrate deeper into the hair shaft.
What sparked the creation of the Lava Cap?
Just before the first lockdown in 2020 I experienced extremely dry hair which led me to conduct extensive research about how to remedy it. I had considered cutting most of my hair off and re-growing it from scratch but wasn’t looking forward to this. A trichologist had recommended I steam my hair every day; however, I quickly recognised that doing this was impractical with the electrical plug-in heat cap that I’d used growing up, because it was so uncomfortable and it was unlikely I’d choose to sit by a plug point every day to do this.
How long did it take you to bring the product to life?
I decided to follow an agile and iterative process for launching the product and so you’ll see different versions of packaging, branding etc. as the product matures – and this will continue for sure, keep an eye out for product updates. I’m always taking note of feedback!
You won the Pure Beauty Highly Commendable Award against major competition – what was it that swayed the judges in your favour?
Yes, Lava Cap won an award in the Best New Hair Care brand category which was amazing! Pure Beauty editor Sarah Parsons noted Lava Cap’s “dedication to hair care, with a bright future ahead” and we’ll continue to showcase this as we continue on this journey.
What are the benefits of using heat on the hair in tandem with hair masks and oils?
Often times we use products but don’t benefit from the full value of them as they are unable to penetrate the hair shaft. This is especially true for low porosity hair, but can also be true for hair that has product build-up that seals the cuticle (or outer layer of the hair shaft) closed. A gentle heat causes the cuticle layer to lift, so moisture and nutrients are more readily absorbed into the hair.
What are your top tips for rehydrating low porosity hair?
It’s crucial to add a bit of heat to your moisturisation process each week as you want to help low porosity hair absorb moisture so that it remains healthy, hydrated and less prone to breakage. And I can’t stress enough that for low porosity hair the moisturisation process should be a regular occurrence, don’t be afraid to spritz the hair with water and apply hydrating products as low porosity hair likely needs all the moisture it can get. You’d be surprised how much moisture is lost to evaporation or being absorbed into pillowcases and other fabric surfaces during the day.
Which hair products do you like to use most with the Lava Cap?
I use my own blend of oils when I do monthly hot oil treatments or use a stimulating scalp serum and hair crème that I make myself.
Could we see a range of hair masks and oils under the Lava Cap brand one day?
I’m passionate about holistic health in general and believe that hair is impacted by a combination of what we put in, on and around our bodies so it’s a possibility, though the focus has been on the heat caps and ensuring they meet people’s needs.
What’s your favourite activity to pass the time while you’re wearing your Lava Cap?
I try to use my deep conditioning time as intentional “me” time – it’s a great opportunity to have a break so I might listen to relaxing music without lyrics or an inspiring or educational podcast.
Shop Lava Cap at lavacap.co.uk
