Perms, relaxing and coloring all use chemicals to alter the composition of your hair. Unfortunately, all can leave your hair stripped of natural moisture and shine and prone to damage. Depending on the type and the strength of the process, your hair may be dull and dry. To ensure that your processed hair stays healthy, you should wash, condition and style with care. Using products specifically made for processed hair can help bring back shine and strength for healthier looking hair.
Step 1
Shampoo your hair every other day instead of every day, or switch to a shampoo that doesn't contain sulfates. Sulfates can strip your hair of natural oil, and if your hair is colored, they can also strip your color too. You can purchase sulfate-free shampoos at the drugstore or beauty supply store. When you shampoo your hair, focus on the roots, where your hair tends to get oily.
Step 2
Condition your hair every time you shampoo. Since shampoo can be drying to your hair, it's important to replenish your hair's typical 8 to 14 percent moisture content moisture by using a good-quality conditioner, says The Beauty Brains website. Try combing the conditioner through your hair with a wide-tooth comb while in the shower, concentrating on the typically drier ends. Leave on for at least two minutes before rinsing away.
Once a week, add a deep conditioning treatment to your routine. You can purchase one from the store, or make your own by combining a peeled, mashed avocado and one egg. Spread on your hair and leave on for 20 to 30 minutes before rinsing away. This helps to add extra moisture to keep your hair looking smooth and shiny.
Step 3
Pat your hair dry when you get out of the shower. Never scrub or rub your hair; it roughens the cuticle and makes for frizzy processed hair. Instead, blot at the hair and then spritz your hair with a leave-in conditioner or detangler, suggests HairBoutique.com. As you comb out the hair, start at the very bottom and work your way up. Processed hair is more prone to breakage, so treat your hair gently as you detangle.
Step 4
Style your hair, but use heated styling tools sparingly, warns "Marie Claire" magazine. Your blow dryer, flat iron and curling iron can be tools of torture for processed hair. They can leave your hair feeling crispy, dry and damaged. Instead of relying on styling tools, visit your stylist for a low-maintenance cut instead. Your hair will need less drying, straightening and curling to protect your delicate strands.
Step 5
Allow at least six weeks between chemical processes. While you may be anxious to have your hair relaxed, permed or colored again, it's important that you don't undertake too many chemical processes at once. Your hair could end up so damaged that your only choice is to cut it off in order for it to be healthy again.
Things You'll Need
- SLS-free shampoo
- Conditioner
- Deep conditioner
- Avocado
- Egg
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