Yes, there’s only four products in the picture, but stick with me. Ever since I discovered straighteners and highlights, I’ve struggled with damaged hair. My first encounter with both was about six years ago, so in that time I’ve learned a fair bit about treating and repairing damaged hair. My hair is quite fine, so it’s prone to breakage and I should have been way more careful with it years ago to prevent long-term damage. But thanks to my Great Lengths extensions, I now have longer, thicker hair, however dying it and using heat tools is something I do regularly. So to protect my own hair, as well as preventing further breakage, I’ve discovered a few things that really help to keep it in tip top condition. Damage done to the hair cannot exactly be reversed, but these five steps help to treat it and improve its condition.
Use a hair mask
Using a hair mask is one of the best things you can do to treat damaged hair. It nourishes and replenishes the hair, while also smoothing and improving the appearance of frizzled ends. Macadamia Deep Repair Masque is one of my favourites as it is formulated to reconstruct dry, damaged hair. Coconut oil is a great, cheaper alternative that works just as well. Using a hair mask once a week can make the biggest difference, and with continuous use you’re bound to see results.
Always use protection
Heat protection, that is. One small step can make the biggest difference to the condition of your hair. Try get into the habit of using a heat protectant every time before you use heat tools. I’ve used Tresemme Heat Defence spray for years, and have no faults with it. It protects hair up to 230 degrees, which makes blowdrying, curling and straightening a bit more guilt free.
Oil doesn’t equate to greasy hair
Putting an oil in your hair is probably the last thing you want to do if you’re prone to greasiness, but hair oils aren’t always that greasy. Most are formulated to be lightweight and non greasy, so you don’t have to reach for the dry shampoo just yet. I’ve been using L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil for over a year and a half, and it’s the one step in my hair routine that I never skip on. Rubbing just a tiny amount onto the ends after washing results in nourished, smooth hair that doesn’t look broken or damaged. Dry, damaged ends need moisture so using an oil gives the hair exactly what it needs.
It’s all in the brush
There’s no point in going through all of these steps if you’re just going to reverse the work when you brush your hair. Brushing your hair is something we all do, but using the right brush is essential. Try to avoid brushing your hair when it’s wet as this is when the hair is most fragile and prone to breakage. The Tangle Teezer has become a firm favourite of mine as it glides through the hair, doesn’t break the strands and gives you tangle-free hair.
Step away from the heat
Too much heat and you’re going to get burned, literally. Something as simple as using heat tools only twice a week and letting your hair air dry are little steps that make a big difference in the condition of your hair. The same applies to water – as much as we all love a scalding hot shower, the boiling water isn’t so good for your hair. It can strip hair of its natural oils and worsen the damage, so try even blasting one cold spritz of water at the end of your shower to seal the hair cuticle and give you smoother hair.
I hope everyone is having a great weekend!
*Change your thoughts and you can change your world*
I have a tangle teezer! Love it!
they’re amazing! no breakage at all! x