Even though we all have different hair types, lengths and textures, breakage and damage is something that most of us have had to deal with at some point or other. Damaged hair can be the result of anything from heat, bleach, towel-drying, bad diet, a flat-iron addiction and even environmental factors like a hot climate. Thankfully, there are plenty of products and simple ways that you can transform damaged hair into a head full of soft, glossy, luscious locks.
1. Use Products For Damaged Hair
In the same way you wouldn’t use products for oily skin on your face if you had dry skin, choosing the right haircare products for your hair type is crucial to ensure it gets the best care and protection it needs.
Almost every haircare brand offers a range of products for damaged hair, which are specially formulated for colour protection and damage control. Hair care products are an investment, so aim for the highest quality that your budget allows. Your hair will thank you for it!
2. Comb Before Washing
If your hair is in a tangle before you wash it, don’t expect it to be any less tangled stepping out of the shower. Comb your locks before washing, to avoid having to handle it too much when it’s wet, which might create additional damage.
Speaking of handling wet hair, avoid split ends and overall damage by using a wide-toothed comb or Tangle Teezer, which is specifically designed to detangle your strands without damaging the hair follicles, roots or tips.
3. Wash With Lukewarm Water
Is there anything better than a hot, steamy shower? As great as it is, it’s not so great on your tresses. Very hot water can strip your hair of essential oils, making it even drier. Turn the heat down a notch and rinse your hair off in lukewarm water instead.
4. Invest In A Treatment
Beyond shampoos and conditioners, there is a plethora of leave-in treatments, hair oils and masques (or masks) for damaged hair that actually heal and deeply moisturise hair from the inside out.
5. Swap Towels For Tees
Yes, hair damage from towel drying is a real thing! Don’t throw out that old, faded, oversized cotton tee (we know you have at least one), and use it to blot and squeeze your hair instead of a normal towel. Remember, hair is most fragile when it’s wet, and cotton t-shirts are much gentler on your strands, preventing further breakage.
6. Use A Heat Protectant
Of all the factors that contribute to hair damage, heat styling may just be the worst. So naturally it goes without saying that a good heat protectant is a must-have to act as a shield and barrier between your hair and the heat tool, preventing it from burning and drying out.
7. Turn Down The Heat
We know it’s not what you want to hear, but the less heat you use on your hair, the better. If it’s not possible to go without using your favourite heat tool, opt for the lowest temperature setting possible to get the desired look with less damage.
8. Snip Snip!
While there are products that help ‘seal’ split ends, the only way to truly get rid of them once and for all is to cut them off. Whether you opt for a trim or having a big chunk taken off, a fresh haircut can make a world of difference to your hair condition and confidence!
9. Go Easy On Brushing
Forget what your grandma told you, 100 brushes before bed is not good for your mane! Sure, a few good brush strokes a day are imperative to massaging and stimulating the scalp to promote adequate blood flow and release healthy oils. But, over-brushing will actually make your hair more damaged in the long run.
10. Rock What You Have
In an effort to reduce heat styling, embrace your hair’s natural texture – whether it’s curly hair, straight hair or anything in between. Use a styling product that brings out the best of your locks. Apply a hair mousse to enhance its natural shape, create some loose beachy waves with a styling spray, or pull damaged strands out of your face with a beautiful fishtail braid.
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge and know-how to prevent hair damage, shop a wide range of professional haircare products for damaged hair at the best prices online at HairNetwork.co.za
