When it comes to hair, it’s practically impossible to pin down the right treatment for everyone at the same time. This is because everyone’s hair is so unique: from length and colour to dryness and damage, an oily scalp or dandruff. With this in mind, there is something common across many hair types and that is dryness and damage. And if you think these two mean that same thing, you’d be quite wrong. In this article, we’ll explore what dry hair is and what damaged hair is and share some of the best tips for dealing with it. Let’s get started!
The difference between dry and damaged hair
According to some of the professionals in the industry, dryness and damage are often confused because they tend to happen at the same time. However, dryness happens due to a lack of moisture, while damage tends to happen with broken bonds and this is usually an issue that is caused by proteins (or lack thereof). As such, you need to know whether your hair is dry, damaged or both before you can begin treatment.
The best treatment for dry and damaged hair
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at how to revitalise your hair and make it look sleek and shiny once again. We’ll start off with the washing itself and lead up to the drying. Here’s what you need to know:
- Avoid using overly hot water in the shower: the heat of the water can affect hair negatively and cause further damage.
- Use the right shampoos: these shampoos are moisturising and are specifically designed for dry and/or damaged hair. If your scalp is oily or even dry, skip washing with a shampoo every day as it can be harmful. Instead, consider washing your hair every second day to ensure that your body’s natural oils are replenished properly. This should address both oiliness and dryness at the same time.
- Choose a good leave-in conditioner and don’t skip conditioning at all: when you leave in the conditioner for around 20 to 30 minutes or as indicated, your hair will be replenished with moisture once again.
- Avoid using a brush: instead, opt for a wide toothed comb instead. This will help prevent breakages, reduce split ends and address problems with frizz.
- Use a microfiber cloth to dry your hair: this is not only more absorbent than a cotton towel, it’s also an excellent way to absorb moisture without causing further breakages.
- Set your blow dryer to a cooler setting: avoid using your hairdryer’s hottest setting. Instead, opt for a cooler temperature because it will not dry out your hair further. Remember that heat = damage and dryness. And because we can’t go outside with wet hair and drying is necessary, take the option that will be the least harmful to your hair.
- Choose your styling tools wisely and protect your hair: if you can, avoid heat styling hair equipment and if you’re going to be outside, wear hats or scarves as protection for your hair to avoid exposing it to the natural elements.
Wrapping up
In short, looking after dry and damaged hair can seem like a daunting task, especially if your hair has been exposed to many chemicals, dyes and treatments. However, that’s not to say that you can’t restore the lustre of your hair when you visit the right hair stylist in Holborn. At Frankie Cochrane, we have professional hairdressers in Holborn who can help give you the right advice for your hair and our hair colorist in Holborn will be able to give you the best tips for restoring coloured and/or damaged and dry hair. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is more than happy to be of help!