What is chemically-damaged hair?
Are you a swimmer? A bleached beauty? A color chameleon? A permed princess? Then it’s likely you’re no stranger to chemically-damaged hair. When we apply chemicals, we strip our strands of lipids. These are little protectors that keep our hair cuticle – the outer layer – smooth and shiny. When this layer is damaged, it cracks and lifts, causing even more damage within the hair shaft. Chemicals will go directly into the hair cortex and damage hair, weakening the protein structure.
What does chemically-damaged hair look like?
Although genetics play a huge part in the varied hair types we see today, an unexpected change in condition could indicate chemical damage, for example, if you’re noticing frizzy, dull, dry strands, or experiencing unexpected split ends and breakage. Those with curly hair might even notice their curl pattern becoming less defined and only returning to its curlier ways with new hair growth.
How to repair color-damaged hair
If you’ve gone platinum recently and been left wondering how to fix hair breakage from bleach, there are ways to improve the appearance of your hair, restore its strength and, most importantly, protect it when you next get a treatment. You should also consider giving your hair a chemical break. If you need a color touch-up, only do the new growth. Using a gentle shampoo between appointments will also help to extend the life of your color.
Choose the right hair care
After washing your hair, always reach for a deeply-norishing shampoo and conditioner like Dove Intensive Repair Shampoo and Conditioner, and end your shower with a blast of cool water to seal the hair cuticle and boost shine. Strands still feeling dry? Try a leave-in conditioner for double-whammy moisturization.
If you struggle with static, products containing oils will offer a smoothing effect. Try Dove Anti-Frizz oil Therapy Shampoo and Conditioner, boosting their benefits with a once-a-week intensive treatment such as the Dove Mineral Hair Mask Strengthens + White Clay.
Cool it on the heat styling
If you’re already dealing with damaged hair, use styling tools with care. Defending strands against heat with a product such as
Dove Smooth & Shine Heat Protection Spray is your vital first step. Try to partially air dry your hair, or rough dry on a cool setting. As well as directing the airflow for a smoother finish, your blow-dryer attachment creates a barrier between the hair and heat, so don’t be tempted to go without.
PRO TIP: If your budget allows, try to replace your heat tools every 2-3 years. Technology is constantly updating, and tools can lose the ability to regulate temperature, scorching your hair without you realizing.
