- by Cate Winny
These hair damages, like breakage, are from common styling practices. Tight hairstyles, like braids, ponytails, and cornrows, stress the follicles. This may damage them or cause traction alopecia, a condition of hair loss from constant pulling. Aggressive combing or brushing can break hair. Doing this when wet strips it of its natural oils, causes dryness and frizz. Excessive brushing damages the hair cuticle. This causes frizz, split ends, and dryness. The hair then becomes more fragile. To minimize breakage, be gentle with the hair. Wear loose styles. Use a wide-tooth comb. Do not use too much heat. Regular trims, conditioning, and protective styling keep hair healthy. They reduce damage and retain their strength.
Managing Chemical Treatment Risks
Hair processes such as dyeing, lightening, curling, and straightening can reduce hair strength. They break down its protein structure, causing breakage, dryness, and other issues. Coloring and bleaching break the bonds that make hair strong. This leaves the cuticle rough and porous, causing brittleness. Perming and relaxing also break and reform these bonds. This weakens the hair, affects its structure, and reduces its moisture retention. Additionally, scalp irritation may occur due to harsh chemicals. Consult a professional or read jonsson protein review before any chemical treatments.
For hair care, treatments are applied sparingly. Use deep conditioners. Avoid harsh products. The sun, pollution, and chlorine damage hair. UV rays dry and fade hair. Pollution damages the cuticle. Chlorine strips natural oils. Protect hair with hats and use UV-protectant products. Rinse the hair after swimming and apply conditioners.
Protecting Hair from Heat
Heating tools, such as straightening and curling devices, can harm hair if used excessively or improperly. High heat weakens the hair shaft. It disrupts the proteins inside. This makes hair more prone to breakage. Tight hairstyles can break hair cuticles. This makes hair rough, porous, and dry. Use heat protectant spray or serum. Lower heat settings. Avoid heat styling as much as possible. Give the hair breaks from heat; a deep condition often, and air-dry when it can. This will help restore moisture. Avoid tight hairstyles to prevent breakage. Limit chemical treatments. Carefully remove knots with a broad-toothed tool. A balanced diet is good for the hair. Drink lots of water.
Guarding Hair from Environmental Factors
Sun, pollution, chlorine, and harsh weather damage hair. Nutritional deficiencies, diseases, and stress also harm hair. Protect hair with hats, UV-protectant products, and limited heat styling. Eat healthy foods, manage stress, and deep conditioning regularly. Avoid tight hairstyles, and chemical treatments, and keep hair hydrated. Consistent care keeps hair healthy and strong.