Hair contains three layers--the medulla, cortex and the cuticle, the outer layer that gives your hair its shine. Chemical processes, such as perming, highlighting, coloring and relaxing damage your hair's cuticle. When the cuticle experiences damage, your hair can become dry, frizzy, unmanageable and prone to breakage. Cleansing your hair is an important part of your hygiene regimen. According to Exploratorium, however, over washing robs your hair of protective oils. Stripping your hair of protective oils can exacerbate damaged hair woes.
Step 1
Wash your hair approximately every three days. Use a moisturizing shampoo that will not strip the scalp of oils.
Step 2
Apply a quarter-sized dollop of shampoo to your palm and apply it to your wet hair. Massage the shampoo into your hair and scalp; do not rub. Rubbing causes friction that can cause delicate, damaged ends to break off.
Step 3
Rinse your hair with warm water and apply a conditioner that contains humectants such as glycerin and sorbitol to your hair. Apply a quarter-sized amount of conditioner to the palm of your hand and massage it into your hair and scalp.
Step 4
Allow the conditioner to sit in your hair for at least three to five minutes. Rinse the conditioner out of your hair with warm water.
Step 5
Towel-dry your damaged hair, removing excess water. Pat your hair with the towel; do not rub. Rubbing will encourage breakage.
Step 6
Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair for extra protection. Comb your hair with a wide-toothed comb to remove knots. Allow your hair to air dry.
Tips and Warnings
- If your hair is prone to knots after washing, apply a detangler to your hair along with the leave-in conditioner. Doing so will help prevent pulling and tugging that can lead to further breakage.
- Do not wash your hair every day. Everyday washing strips your hair of precious oils needed to lubricate damaged hair. Avoid blow-drying your damaged hair after washing. High heat from the blow dryer can be especially drying.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing shampoo
- Conditioner
- Towel
- Wide-toothed comb
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