How to Get Rid of Damage From Hair Straightening

Straigtening hair can damage it, but you can fix it!

Straightened hair is damaged hair. The chemicals used in this process are drying and remove natural oils -- all of which leads to split ends, breakage and sometimes frizzy hair. Using heated hair appliances such as blow-dryers and crimping irons also contributes to hair damage. Hair that has been damaged by such processing can be difficult to repair, but with effort, diligence and the proper hair care regime, you can restore the hair’s natural oils and have soft, shiny hair once again.

Things You'll Need

• Hair shears
• Hair clips
• Olive oil
• Shampoo
• Conditioner

Instructions

1. Separate your hair into sections and hold these in place with hair clips. Cut off 1/2 inch with hair shears. For extensive damage, cut off 1 to 2 inches of hair. Split ends move up the hair strand until the hair becomes fragile and breaks off. Trim hair every four to eight weeks.

2. Deep condition hair one to four times a month. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a microwave or on the stove. Apply the hot oil to the hair. Cover with a conditioning cap or damp towel. Allow the oil to remain on your hair for 30 minutes to one hour. The oil penetrates the hair shaft, adding moisture to dry hair. Rinse out with cool water and then shampoo your hair.

3. Wash your hair with a shampoo formulated for your hair type – dry, oily or normal. Damaged hair is usually dry, so use a moisturizing shampoo. These shampoos contain essential oils and botanicals that lubricate the hair. Rinse out with cool water. Cold temperatures are less drying to hair than hot temperatures.

4. Condition your hair after each shampoo. Use a rinse-out hair conditioner formulated for your hair type. For those with damaged hair, a moisturizing conditioner is a good choice. These products have essential oils and botanicals to detangle hair and add moisture. Rinse out with cool water.

5. Massage your scalp daily for one to two minutes. Place your hands on your head with your fingers spread out. Move your hands in a circular motion to stimulate the sebaceous glands. These glands secrete sebum to lubricate the scalp and hair. A scalp massage also increases blood circulation, which brings additional nutrients to the hair roots. The nutrients help new hair grow in stronger and healthier. Over time, new hair replaces the damaged hair.

References

• Mother Nature: Dry Hair
• Care Fair: The Benefits of Scalp Massages for Healthier Hair
• Long Locks: How to Grow Long Hair and Keep It Healthy
• Think Quest: How to Cut Your Hair
• Hair Straightening: Straightening Hair Tips