While dry and damaged hair can look alike to the casual observer, both types have important differences. Learn how to spot dry or damaged hair and how to deal with it by using these tips.
To figure out if you have dry or damaged hair, take one strand of wet hair, pluck it gently, and pull it at either end. If it doesn’t stretch or only flexes a bit and breaks, it lacks protein and is damaged. If it stretches but doesn’t return to its normal state, it’s most likely only dry (even though you’re performing the test on wet hair). Healthy hair will stretch one-third of its length before bouncing back to its regular state.
Obvious signs of damaged hair like hair loss and bald patches are hard to miss. However, even tasks that are necessary for daily hygiene such as shampooing, brushing and combing aren’t kind to our crowning glory. In those scenarios, damaged hair suffers from broken protein bonds. Other common causes include excessive treatments like straightening, styling or coloring, but environmental factors can cause damage as well. All these factors can weaken the hair shaft and cause hair to snap or break.
Professionals often advise customers to cut damaged hair off. However, you can make it look healthy and strong again by giving it lots of protein. This substance seals the damage and makes hair smoother.
By definition, dry hair lacks moisture, but its protein bonds remain. Changes in temperature, hormones, medications and use of heat-styling appliances can cause loss of moisture. Also, when your scalp doesn’t produce enough oil, it leads to dry hair.
Proper conditioning and moisturizing treatments will fix that problem. Make sure your care ritual includes deep-conditioning, sealer and hot oil treatments. Avoid products with silicones, however. While marketed to improve shine, they only coat the hair without actually fixing the problem. Additionally, they can leave a residue that can cause dullness.
Here are some other things you can do for dry hair: If you have curls, protect them by sleeping on a satin pillowcase, or use a satin scarf. Additionally, avoid blow-drying on high heat.
Keep in mind that hair changes over time, so make sure to check its condition regularly. That way, you can keep adjusting your ritual to assure you’re using the right products and techniques.
