How to Repair Damaged Hair

May 30, 2021

Hair damage is more than just split ends. Extremely damaged hair develops cracks in the outside layer (cuticle). Once the cuticle lifts (opens), your hair is at risk for further damage and breakage. It may also look dull or frizzy and brittle and be difficult to manage or maintain.

So can you really go from dry, brittle hair to smooth, shiny locks? The answer isn’t always cut and dried. For the most part, hair damage is permanent because hair is actually a collection of dead cells, making them beyond repair. But don’t despair, with proper hair care and a few targeted treatments, you can help restore the outer cuticle and begin to improve the look and feel of your hair.

Sometimes it isn't all too clear how you ended up with damaged hair in the first place. Was it hair dye, bleach, or styling tools?

Keep reading to learn how to prevent further damage...

1. It’s tangled

Damaged hair is easily tangled. The raised cuticles create more friction and grab onto other strands more aggressively than sleek, closed cuticles. The lack of moisture on each strand can also add to your knotty situation.

How to limit further damage

Carefully brush and detangle. When brushing your hair Start at the ends of the hair and slowly work out the knots as you move up toward your roots. Starting at the top of your head and forcefully tugging the brush through your hair can break the hair and lead to lasting damage as well as unwanted flyaway and frizz not to mention give you a sensitive scalp! You do not want that, trust us!

Brush your hair when wet. Unless you have textured or curly hair only brush your hair when its completely dry.

If you have curly hair we recommend brush when wet. You can use a wide-toothed comb or brush to work conditioner or hair detangler through your hair

Brush less. It’s counterintuitive, but brushing is when the damage is most likely to occur, especially if you're using the wrong brush for your hair type.

Tie up your hair. After washing your hair or when you're just chilling at home all day braid your hair to avoid it knotting or you can also pull it up into a loose bun before doing any activities that frequently tangle your hair.

How to ease existing damage

Pay attention to moisture. Hair that’s lacking oils often look and feel rough, are dull and prone to static electricity and tangles. Properly hydrated hair is less likely to get tangled or knotted. If conditioner alone isn’t enough, consider adding a leave-in conditioner or detangler to your routine.

2. It’s dull and dry

Damaged hair often lacks the natural oil and moisture that coats the outside of the cuticle. Without this, hair loses its shine.

How to limit further damage

Wash less. Shampoo is designed to remove the build-up of oils and product on the scalp. As it works its way through your hair, it also strips the oils from your hair. Try washing every other day — or less if you can — to help keep those oils in your hair and prevent stripping the natural oils of your hair.

How to ease existing damage

Use a shampoo and conditioner formulated for dry hair. Shampoos with added moisture and less intense detergents can help prevent too much oil from being stripped and add moisture back. Be careful to only shampoo your scalp and not on the rest of your hair, let the shampoo naturally run down your hair strands.

Use jojoba oil. Jojoba can help strengthen and rehydrate the hair. Jojoba is frequently added to conditioners and other hair products. You can also work the oil through your ends while your hair is damp, applying oil to wet hair helps oils absorb better.

3. It’s fried and frizzy

Frizzy hair is a sign that your cuticle isn’t lying flat.

How to limit further damage

Rinse with cold water. Hot water opens up the outer layer of your hair (cuticle), whereas cold water can help close it. Rinsing with cool or cold water can help protect the inner layer of your hair and hold in hydrating oils. Avoid washing your hair with really hot water (you know us girls already love showering in scorching hot water lol)

How to ease existing damage

Use the right product. An overly aggressive shampoo can remove too much of your hair’s natural oils. Look for a more moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. and do not rub your hair in-between your hands when putting any products in, this rubbing motion will damage your hair cuticles

Try an apple cider vinegar (ACV) rinse. The water and products you use can affect your hair’s pH level. If your hair’s pH is too high, it can cause the cuticle to lift and frizz. An ACV rinse can help restore the pH balance in your hair and scalp as well as add back shine.

Use Argan oil. The Internationally known Famous Moroccan Argon oil is highly moisturizing and rich in vitamins A and E. It may also help prevent breakage if you do need to brush or style your hair right away. Look for products that contain Argan, or work the oil through your ends while your hair is still damp.