6 Effective Ways to Repair Dry and Damaged Hair

Dry and damaged hair can manifest in several ways, and identifying the signs is essential to prevent further damage. Here are some of the most common signs of dry and damaged hair. 

• Split ends

Split ends typically appear in hair ends but sometimes occur in the middle of strands. They occur when the cuticle or the hair shaft’s protective outer layer loses moisture due to excessive heat and styling. You likely have split ends if the tips of your hair fray or physically break apart.

• Breakage

If some strands of your hair are shorter than others or no longer stretch when you pull them, they’ve likely broken off due to damage and split ends. Your hair loses elasticity the more it’s exposed to heat that weather or hair styling tools cause. 

• Knots and tangles

Hair cuticles consist of overlapping scales or shingles that lie flat when the hair is healthy. However, they stick out when damaged, leading to knots and tangles that make brushing or combing your hair difficult. They usually occur after showering or during windy conditions.

• Frizziness

Frizziness is evident both in wet and dry hair. Dry weather, over-shampooing, and excessive hair styling cause frizzy hair or flyaways. They weaken your hair’s structure and make it more prone to breakage. 

• Rough texture

Healthy hair is usually smooth when you run your fingers through it. However, if you feel that it’s coarse or rough, it’s an evident sign that you have dry and damaged hair.  

• Hair loss or fall

While it’s normal to shed hair, excessive styling, an unbalanced diet, stress, and scalp infection can trigger hair loss or fall. It’s usually evident when you brush or run your hair through the shower or find patches of thin hair or even bald spots on your head.

Dry and damaged hair can affect your confidence, appearance, and well-being. Below are some tips on repairing damaged hair and returning it to its healthy state. 

1. Upgrade your hair care arsenal

You may need to change your hair care products if they’re no longer effective in repairing dry and damaged hair. They may even be making it worse.

When updating your hair care arsenal, choose products that suit your hair and scalp type. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like natural oils, shea butter, and keratin to repair damaged hair. Switching to a sulfate-free shampoo can also help avoid further stripping of natural oils, which can lead to dry and damaged hair.

Additionally, consider using deep conditioning treatments or hair masks to provide your hair with extra hydration and repair. Avoid using heat styling tools frequently, and use a heat protectant spray when you do use them.

 

2. Get regular trims and treatments

 

Regular haircuts and hair treatments can remove dry and split ends and prevent them from further breaking off your hair strands. Experts recommend getting a trim every four to six weeks to maintain your hair length or every six to eight weeks if you’re growing it out.

However, you can opt for home remedies to avoid spending much on professional trims and treatments. Use Moroccan argan oil to add moisture and shine to your hair ends. Peppermint and lavender oil are also great options for preventing hair loss and breakage. To preserve your hair's natural oils, try reducing the frequency of washing to every other day or less.

 

3. Pay attention to your scalp

 

Just as you can’t bring a dead plant back to life if you ignore the soil, you can’t repair damaged hair while neglecting your scalp. Experts recommend getting a shampoo, conditioner, or scalp scrub to remove daily buildup on your scalp and offer strength-building nutrients.

Take omega-3 supplements to stimulate circulation in your scalp, antioxidants to prevent hair loss, and probiotics to improve the skin microbiome.

 

4. Air-dry your hair after washing it

 

Let your hair air dry after showering to retain moisture and prevent frizz. Brushing or aggressively rubbing it with a towel causes harsh tugging and breakage. A gentle approach to your haircare routine can make a big difference in preventing damage. 

 

5. Use hair oil

 

Hair oils can give your hair extra shine, moisture, and nourishment your shampoo and conditioner may not always provide. They can also reduce the amount of water your hair absorbs, protect it from harmful substances, and keep it lubricated, resulting in healthier, smoother hair.

Try Kérastase’s Elixir Ultime Hair Oil for deep nourishment and long-lasting frizz control. It also works as an effective heat protectant and adds shine to help you achieve radiant-looking hair. 

 

6. Use a wide-toothed comb

 

Your hair styling tools can largely affect your hair’s health. Instead of a regular hairbrush with fine and narrow teeth, use a wide-toothed comb to prevent tugging and breakage when you brush your hair. This comb is handy when brushing your hair while it’s wet, most fragile, and vulnerable to damage.