Tired of dry, brittle, damaged hair? Don’t fret! In this article from The Dermo Lab and in collaboration with the dermatologist Dr. Manal Abdulghani, we reveal the secrets of how to repair damaged hair and restore its health and vitality.
Whether you’re struggling with heat damage, chemical treatments, over-styling, or environmental factors, these expert tips and tricks will help you revive your mane and regain confidence. Say goodbye to bad hair days and hello to luscious, healthy hair!
What causes damaged hair?
According to Dr. Manal Abdulghani, dry, damaged hair looks like dull hair, brittle hair, dry, tangled hair, frizzy hair, and hair that looks like straw. It has a lack of elasticity, split ends that don’t go away even after being cut, and dull hair that lacks shine and breaks easily.
Damaged hair can result from several factors, including :
- Heat styling: Frequent use of heated styling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and hair dryers can damage hair. Excessive heat weakens hair’s protein structure, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
- Chemical treatments: Chemical treatments such as coloring, bleaching, perming, and straightening can damage hair. These treatments alter the hair’s natural structure, leading to dryness, breakage, and loss of elasticity.
- Over-treatment: Overlapping chemical treatments or excessive use of harsh chemicals can strip hair of its natural oils and disrupt its moisture balance. The result can be serious damage, including hair loss and thinning.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to sun, wind, humidity, and pollution can wreak havoc on hair. The sun’s UV rays can cause discoloration and weaken the hair shaft, while environmental pollutants can accumulate on the hair, making it dull and prone to damage.
- Poor hair care practices: Aggressive brushing or combing, especially when hair is wet, can lead to breakage. Using rough towels to dry hair, sleeping on rubbing cotton pillowcases, or using unsuitable hair accessories can also contribute to damage.
- Lack of hydration: Insufficient hydration can make hair dry, brittle, and more susceptible to damage. Factors such as a dry environment, a poor hair care routine, or not drinking enough water can lead to an imbalance in hair moisture.
- Poor diet and nutrition: A diet lacking essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins, can have an impact on hair health. Inadequate nutrition can lead to weak, dull, and easily damaged hair.
- Overwashing or harsh shampoos: Washing hair too frequently or using shampoos containing harsh sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it damaged.
- Genetic factors: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to having naturally weaker hair, making it more susceptible to damage.
- Stress and hormonal changes: Stress, hormonal imbalances, and certain medical conditions can affect hair health, leading to damage, hair loss, or changes in hair texture.
It’s important to identify the causes of damaged hair to implement appropriate remedies and preventative measures to restore and maintain hair health.
Can damaged hair go back to normal?
Dr. Manal Abdulghani explains that the possibility of repairing damaged hair depends on the level of deterioration. In some cases, the cuticle is broken and can no longer function at full capacity. Split ends are also irreparable, which is why the ends need to be trimmed regularly to prevent further damage. In addition to the ends, the hair follicle itself can be damaged, resulting from prolonged and aggressive brushing, as well as other factors that could eventually cause thinning and hair loss.
How to repair damaged hair?
1- Assess the damage:
Before diving into solutions, it’s essential to assess the extent and type of damage to your hair. Is it dry and frizzy from heat styling? Is it brittle and weakened by excessive chemical treatments? Understanding the root cause will help you choose the most effective repair methods.
2- Cut regularly:
To start repairing your hair, plan regular trims every 6 to 8 weeks. This will eliminate split ends and prevent further damage from moving up the hair shaft. While it may seem odd to cut your hair when you want it to grow, it’s a crucial step in maintaining healthy locks.
3- Moisturize and hydrate:
Moisturizing is the key to repairing damaged hair. Invest in a good-quality moisturizing shampoo and conditioner formulated for damaged hair. Look for ingredients like shea butter, argan oil, and coconut oil, which nourish and moisturize hair. Deep conditioning treatments once or twice a week can also work wonders, providing intensive hydration and repair.
4- Avoid heat styling:
Excessive heat styling is a common cause of hair damage. Minimize the use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons, and always apply a heat protection spray before styling. Wherever possible, adopt natural hairstyles and let your hair air-dry to minimize heat damage.
5- Be gentle:
Treat your hair with care to prevent further damage. Avoid brushing or combing wet hair, as it is more vulnerable to breakage. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush to gently remove tangles. Dry your hair with a microfiber towel or an old T-shirt rather than rubbing it vigorously with a towel.
6- Nourish your hair from the inside out:
Remember, healthy hair starts from the inside out. Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Incorporate foods such as eggs, fish, nuts, and green leafy vegetables to provide your hair with essential nutrients. Dr. Manal Abdulghani recommends taking vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron, which is a mineral that helps give hair a healthier appearance.
In addition, drink plenty of water to keep your hair hydrated and promote its overall health.
7- Minimize chemical treatments:
Reduce the frequency of chemical treatments such as coloring, perming, or straightening, as these processes can weaken hair structure. If possible, opt for less harmful solutions such as ammonia-free dyes or semi-permanent colors. Always consult a professional stylist who can recommend the least harmful options for your hair type.
8- Protect your hair from harsh environmental factors:
Protect your hair from aggressive environmental factors such as sun exposure and pollution. Dr. Manal Abdulghani recommends wearing a hat, as ultraviolet rays can damage the hair shaft in the same way they damage your skin. If you have dry hair, limit your hair’s exposure to these rays.
In addition, rinse your hair with clear water after swimming in chlorinated pools or salt water to avoid damaging it.
9- Incorporate hair masks and oils:
Incorporate hair masks and oils into your care routine to further nourish and repair your hair. Look for products containing ingredients such as keratin, avocado oil, or olive oil, which strengthen and moisturize hair. Apply these treatments once a week, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, and leave them on for the recommended length of time to reap maximum benefits.
10- Patience and consistency:
Repairing damaged hair is a process that takes time and consistency. Be patient and follow a consistent hair care routine, incorporating the tips mentioned above. Over time, you’ll see a significant improvement in your hair’s texture, strength, and overall health.
Conclusion
Don’t let damaged hair put you off! With the right knowledge and constant care, you can repair and rejuvenate your hair. Remember to assess the damage, cut regularly, moisturize, minimize heat styling, nourish from within, and protect from environmental damage. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you’ll be well on your way to restoring the health of your hair and regaining a beautiful, vibrant mane.
Last Updated on February 28, 2024
