Easy steps for healthy strands
Those who alter their texture using hot styling tools are likely to be familiar with breakage and dry and damaged hair. That said, even those who are not avid heat stylists can experience broken strands due to irregular routines and bad hair habits.
For healthy hair, avoiding hair damage is a must, and this is exactly what this guide will tell you: how to go about repairing damaged hair by adopting the best habits, tips and the right products to use.
Understand Hair Damage
The first step towards prevention is to understand the structure of your hair. Hair damage should not be confused with hair loss as this is a physical damage that occurs in the hair shaft and results in the fracture of the existing strands.
If your hair is difficult to detangle, sheds easily and has lost its shine, you are most likely dealing with hair damage.
Common Causes of Hair Damage
The most common causes leading to hair damage are chemical treatments and their harsh ingredients like sulfates and acids. Blow drying and using flat or curly irons weaken the hair structure and weaken the hair shaft.
Environmental factors, such as exposure to UV rays, dry air and other harsh weather conditions, can also contribute to hair breakage by depleting the hair of its moisture.
Implementing Prevention Measures
The best step to reduce hair damage at home is by following a tailored hair care routine and using the right products for your hair type, not to forget conditioning treatments for strengthening the hair roots and thereby preventing breakage.
Follow a Tailored Hair Care Routine
First, develop a tailored hair care routine based on your hair type, texture and its specific needs. Begin with a gentle sulfate-free shampoo and follow by using a nourishing conditioner to cleanse the hair without depleting its natural oils.
Incorporate the Right Products
Take a biotin supplement to promote hair growth and strengthen the hair shafts. Ads a hair mask with coconut oil or olive oil in your hair care routine to ensure proper hydration and nourishment to the hair strands.
Don’t Underestimate Conditioning Treatments
Make sure you incorporate regular deep conditioning treatments and a leave-in conditioner to fortify the hair not only against damage but restoring the moisture as well.
This treatment should be followed at least once in a week while paying attention to the mid-length to hair ends where the damage is most likely to occur.
Embrace Protective Styling
Protective styling is essential to minimize hair damage and reduce the stress on your hair strands. Opt for loose hair styles to safeguard the hair during the day and a silk pillow at night to reduce friction and minimize hair breakage while asleep.
Minimize Damage From Heat
Always use a heat protectant spray or serums to create a barrier between the tools before heat styling. Limit the frequency of heat styling and when necessary, use a lower heat setting. Resort to air drying whenever possible or use a diffuser attachment when blow drying.
Lastly, get regular trims to remove split ends and consult your hair stylist for advice on preventing breakage and maintaining good hair health.
