How to repair chemically damaged hair

Share this article

Sometimes it feels like everything we do risks damaging our hair: colouring, straightening, swimming – even brushing it. But putting our locks through a bit of stress is definitely the norm, not the exception – a massive 84% of us would describe our hair as ‘damaged’. The good news? With the right products and practices, it’s easily remedied. So whether you’ve spent too much time in the pool, or you’re a fan of chemically straightened hair, with our advice you can bring it back to its healthy-looking best – and carry on styling and colouring, completely guilt-free.

1
Choose the right conditioner.
When the cuticles of our hair (basically our hair’s armour) are damaged, the core of our hair becomes vulnerable. Put your faith in a daily conditioner that’ll keep them smooth and strong, like Dove Intensive Repair Conditioner
2
Be tactical with chemical treatments.
Give your hair a bit of a break between each one: so if you usually treat it every eight weeks, try waiting 10 weeks instead. Need a colour refresh? Instead of going over the whole lot, just touch up the roots. You get the idea
3
Find the best treatments.
Decided to find out if blondes have more fun? When it comes to figuring out how to fix damaged bleached hair, look out for a treatment that specifically repairs its proteins (hair is mostly made of them)
4
Try a hair mask.
Chemical straightening breaks down the protein bonds inside your hair in order to reform them into a new shape. If you love the smooth, sleek look, make sure you’re giving those proteins some reinforcement with a nourishing hair mask
5
Look out for oils.
When your hair is chemically processed, the lipids (which form the protective layer that keeps the cuticle smooth and hair shiny) are removed, which can leave it frizzy and dull. To decrease static and increase shine, look for products that contain oils to help replenish lost lipid