Hair that has been chemically damaged can appear dry, dull or frizzy, as well as feel coarse to the touch. Split ends and dandruff can also be the result of chemically damaged hair. This type of damage can be caused by coloring or perming hair, as well as chlorine, according to the website Free Beauty Tips. If the damage is severe, consider cutting your hair short. If you love your long hair, there are several ways to treat chemical damage.
Step 1
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo, such as baby shampoo or a shampoo specifically formulated for damaged hair. Then use a moisturizing conditioner, such as one containing jojoba oil. If possible, don't wash your hair every day, as this can be drying to hair that is already fragile.
Step 2
Deep condition your hair at least once a week with an intensive conditioner or hot oil treatment. Always follow the directions on the product for best results. Put a shower cap on after applying the conditioner and blow dry on a medium setting for better deep-conditioning results. If you don't want to buy oil treatments, it's easy to improvise at home. Free Beauty Tips recommends applying cooking oil or coconut suntan oil to your hair, then putting an old towel or shower cap over your hair and leaving it on for a little while, or even overnight. Rinse your hair thoroughly and wash it with a very mild or baby shampoo afterward.
Step 3
Apply a small amount of vinegar to your hair while showering. This only needs to be done occasionally, and will help prevent dandruff and split ends, reports the website Tone Health. Make sure to rinse your hair thoroughly after using the vinegar, as it has a strong odor.
Step 4
Avoid hairstyles such as tight pony-tails, braids or cornrows. These pull on the hair and scalp and can be damaging to weak hair. Wear hair down or pulled up or braided loosely.
Tips and Warnings
- Trim hair at least every other month to keep it healthy. Avoid frequent use of blow dryers, flat irons or hot rollers, as these can further damage fragile hair. When swimming in a chlorinated pool, consider wearing a bathing cap to keep chlorine out of the hair, as chlorine can be drying. Ask your doctor if it's OK to take a multivitamin. This might help new hair grow in healthier.
- To reduce future chemical damage to hair, cut back on harsh hair coloring, perms and chemical straightening. If you really love coloring your hair, consider using a color that's henna based, as this is less damaging to hair.
Things You'll Need
- Mild shampoo
- Moisturizing conditioner
- Vinegar
- Hot oil hair treatments
- Shower cap
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