Several factors can cause hair damage, including chemicals, weather and over-styling. In most cases, the damage makes the hair more porous, which makes it difficult to maintain proper moisture levels. Just like the ends of our fingernails, hair is no longer alive once it grows out of the follicle. It is then almost impossible to reverse damage to the ends. You can, however, make cosmetic changes that improve the look of your hair, much the same way an epoxy can "repair" a chipped finger nail, and prevent further damage.
Step 1
Cut off the damaged ends. This may seem counter-productive, but damage, such as split ends, can travel up the strand. Removing the damaged ends keeps the healthy hair healthy. If you do not want to lose too much length, cut off one-half to one-quarter of an inch each month to match the rate of hair growth.
Step 2
Brush and comb wisely. Do not brush the hair when wet, which can stretch and break the strands. Use a wide-toothed comb instead. If your hair tangles easily, use a detangling product. Backcombing the hair to create volume can also damage the strands.
Step 3
Avoid chemical processes such as perms, relaxers and dyes. These processes can cause further damage to the hair. If you must perm or dye your hair, have it done professionally at a reputable salon.
Step 4
Protect your hair during heat styling. Curling irons and hair dryers rob moisture from the hair, causing breakage. Use a heat-styling product and turn down the heat. Test your heat-styling tool by dampening a paper towel and holding it against the tool. If the towel sizzles, but remains clean, the tool is the correct temperature. If it becomes charred, the tool is too hot.
Step 5
Avoid elastic bands. Elastic can tear the strands when you remove them from your hair. Opt for non-elastic hair holders.
Step 6
Deep condition your hair at least twice a month. Deep conditioning restores moisture, elasticity and softness to damaged hair.
Step 7
Use moisturizing shampoo and conditioner after each wash. Only lather once, and wash no more than once a week. If your hair is oily, use an oily hair conditioner between washes to remove excess dirt and oil. For extra-dry hair, "wash" your hair with a moisturizing conditioner once a week or more, and use a mild shampoo whenever you deep condition your hair.
Step 8
Apply oils to your scalp and ends. Use jojoba or extra-virgin olive oil for dry hair and sesame oil for oily hair. Apply the oil every evening, before bed.
Step 9
Cover your hair. Wrap your hair in a silk scarf when sleeping. The scarf will prevent your hair from breakage when rubbing against your pillow. Wear a silk scarf underneath woolen caps in winter to prevent moisture loss, frizz and breakage.
Step 10
Avoid products with alcohol and sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate. These chemicals strip oils from the hair and make damage worse.
Step 11
Blot or pat your hair with a towel when it gets wet, and let it air dry. Do not rub it, which can break the hair and make damage worse.
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing shampoo
- Mild shampoo
- Conditioner
- Deep conditioner
- Detangler
- Wide-toothed comb
- Thick bath towel
- Olive, jojoba or sesame oil
References
- Hairfinder: Is Your Hair Damaged
- Hairfinder: Split Ends
- "Thank God I'm Natural"; Chris-Tia E. Donaldson; 2008
Member Comments