Over-styling is arguably the leading cause of hair damage today. Every time you get a perm, dye your hair, use heated styling implements, apply mousse or hair spray or even brush your hair, you are causing damage. Over time, this damage shows up as dry, frizzy hair; thinning, split ends; and discoloration. Often this might encourage you to use even more damaging styling techniques in an effort to hide these unsightly side effects.While most damaged hair can't actually be repaired, the damage can often be stopped by changing a few bad styling habits, and a bit of extra hair care can prevent new growth from becoming damaged. In addition, some of the more unsightly damage can be masked or removed while you wait for healthy hair to grow.
Trimming
Split ends, splintering and ragged thinning ends make up what is probably the most readily noticed and recognizable type of hair damage. There are some products on the market that claim to repair split ends, but such products are designed to smooth the ends and sometimes cause the two parts of the split to adhere together. Split ends can't truly be repaired, but they can be trimmed. Regular small trims can help keep your ends looking full and healthy, and trimming individual split ends with a pair of good hair scissors can help manage the damage between trims.
Moisturizing and strengthening
Hair needs moisture and protein to be healthy. These are two things that common styling practices strip out or seal out of the hair follicle. Dry hair will generally be rough, dull and frizzy. You should moisturize with good conditioners that are free of silicone-containing ingredients and use oils or hair lotions for an effective leave-in moisturizer. The exact oil or moisturizing product you use will depend on your hair type and the environment in which you live. Hair masks of honey, oatmeal or other protein-containing substances can help replenish much-needed protein, strengthening the hair and giving it a more vibrant look.
Changing damaging habits
Unless you change your styling technique, damage to your hair will continue to increase. Stop using heat styling implements, or at least turn down the heat and try to limit the duration. Cut down on perms and dyeing, and invest in a good wide-tooth comb instead of that hair-ripping brush. Pat hair dry after showers instead of "scrubbing" with the towel, and cut back on the amount of shampoo you use. These simple tips will help new hair come in healthy and strong while reducing the appearance of existing damage.
