It is important to repair damaged hair because it can be a definite detriment to anyone's overall appearance. In a world where first impressions are important, people often form opinions about one another based on outward appearances first. Individuals with noticeable split ends, tangles, and dried-out strands are frequently viewed as less attractive, lower in social status, and even less competent at their jobs in some cases. Dried and damaged hair can also cause some observers to conclude that a person is in poor health even when this impression is not actually true. Taking the time to both prevent and repair damaged hair can often make a significant difference in both appearance and self-confidence.
Regular heat styling is one of the most common causes of damaged hair, and it is also one of the simplest to prevent. Blow dryers, curling irons, and flat straightening irons can sometimes burn strands if used at too-high temperature settings. They can also quickly sap much-needed moisture from the structure of each hair strand. Hair conditioning masks are popular product options for re-hydrating heat-damaged hair. Many stylists recommend one of these intensive conditioning treatments about once a week along with using hair dryers at lower settings.
Lightening and coloring can also be responsible for the need to repair damaged hair. Many types of hair coloring products are formulated with strong chemicals such as hydrogen peroxide in order to remove natural color at the molecular level and deposit new color under the cuticle of each hair strand. A main disadvantage is that these chemicals can also remove moisture particularly in finer hair that is more prone to drying. Some of the most effective ways to repair damaged hair in this case include using moisture-rich shampoos and conditioners formulated to hydrate and protect colored hair. These kinds of products also normally reduce the number of tangles in longer colored strands.
Another easy measure to repair damaged hair is a regular trim. Hair that is allowed to grow for more than about two months without one has higher chances of developing split ends. It can also absorb conditioner unevenly and lead to further dryness. Stylists often recommend leaving conditioner on damaged hair and working a wide-toothed comb through the strands in order to prevent tangling before rinsing out the conditioner. Healthy hair is most often hair that is well-maintained and protected from heat, chemicals, and environmental elements.
