How to Treat Dry, Brittle Hair

Using hair straighteners can cause split ends.

Dry, brittle hair is caused by a lack of moisture which, in turn, is caused by using too many heat-styling products, shampooing too frequently or highlighting or dying your hair on a regular basis. Exposure to the sun and alcohol-based hair products can also dry out hair, as can certain diseases and vitamin deficiencies.

Things You'll Need

• Moisturizing shampoo
• Deep conditioner (cream-based)
• Leave-in conditioner
• Boar-bristle brush
• Wide-tooth comb
• Blow-dryer
• Shower cap
• Detangling spray (optional)
• Dry shampoo or baby powder (optional)
• Heat-protecting spray (optional)

Instructions

1. Condition your hair. Use a cream-based conditioner and a leave-in conditioner daily. Rinse your hair with cold water after you condition; this will close the cuticle to prevent more damage. Use a cream-based deep conditioner twice a week. Apply the deep conditioner after you wash your hair, when it's still damp. Place a shower cap over your hair and use a blow-dryer for a minute or two. This will help the cuticle open up and absorb the conditioner.

2. Use a moisturizing shampoo instead of a clarifying shampoo. Clarifying shampoos can dry out hair and cause further damage. Comb out wet hair with a wide-tooth comb. Use a detangling spray if you're prone to knots. Never brush wet hair; this can cause further damage. Use a boar-bristle brush on dry hair. Wash your hair every other day instead of every day. If you have oily hair, use a dry shampoo or baby powder to soak up excess oil. Avoid hair products that contain alcohol; they, too, can dry out your hair.

3. Invest in a quality blow-dryer. Poor-quality blow-dryers can make hair dry and brittle, which causes breakage. Avoid flat irons or curling irons. If you can't live without them, use a heat-protecting spray and set them on the lowest temperature possible.

4. Get regular hair trims every month or two. They'll get rid of split ends and damaged hair. Ask your stylist if he offers deep-conditioning or scalp treatments, which will prevent further damage and stimulate hair growth.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow your hair to air-dry whenever possible.

• Use specially designed hair ties that prevent breakage.

• Frequent shampooing and heat styling are the biggest causes of dry hair.

References

• Styles 101: Dry, Damaged Hair
• Misikko: How to Treat Dry Hair
• Beautiful With Brains; How to Treat Dry Hair; March 2010