Treatment Of Damaged Hair At Home: Expert’s Guides, Tricks & Tips

Maintaining healthy and lustrous hair is a desire shared by many. However, factors such as excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, and environmental stressors can leave our hair damaged and needing special care. The good news is that you don’t always have to rush to the salon for expensive treatments.

In this TH Cosmetic‘s article, we will explore effective ways to treat damaged hair at home, using readily available ingredients and simple techniques that can help you restore your hair’s natural beauty.

Benefits of home-based hair treatments

Home-based hair treatments offer several benefits, making them popular for maintaining and improving hair health. These treatments are convenient, cost-effective, and can be customized to suit your specific hair needs. Here are some detailed benefits of home-based hair treatments:

Cost-Effective

Home-based hair treatments are generally more cost-effective than salon or spa treatments. You can find many affordable hair care products and DIY recipes that provide excellent results without breaking the bank.

Investing in quality hair care products can save money in the long run by avoiding frequent salon visits.

Convenience

Home-based hair treatments are incredibly convenient because you can perform them at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home. There’s no need to schedule appointments or travel to a salon or spa.

You can fit them into your busy schedule without needing long appointments, making it easier to maintain a consistent hair care routine.

Customization

Home-based treatments allow you to customize your hair care routine to address your needs. Whether you’re dealing with dryness, frizz, damage, or scalp issues, you can select products and ingredients tailored to your concerns.

You can experiment with different treatments and ingredients to find what works best for your hair type and condition.

Privacy

Some individuals prefer the privacy of their own homes when it comes to hair care. You can relax and focus on your treatment without any external distractions or the need to engage in small talk with salon staff.

This privacy can also benefit those dealing with hair loss or sensitive scalp issues, as they can address these concerns discreetly.

Consistency

Consistency is key to achieving and maintaining healthy hair. Home-based treatments can establish a routine that suits your lifestyle and hair needs.

You can use hair masks, oils, and other treatments as often as necessary without worrying about scheduling conflicts or salon hours.

Types of hair damage

Chemical Damage

• Hair Coloring: Using hair dyes and bleach can weaken the hair shaft, making it more prone to breakage and dryness. Frequent coloring can strip the hair of its natural oils and proteins.
• Perms and Relaxers: Chemical treatments like perms and relaxers alter the hair’s structure by breaking and reforming disulfide bonds. Doing it incorrectly or too often can lead to weakened, brittle hair.
• Chemical Overprocessing: Overlapping chemical treatments, such as repeatedly applying hair dye or relaxers to already treated hair, can cause excessive damage.
• Swimming Pools: Chlorine in swimming pools can strip the hair of its natural oils and proteins, leaving it dry and brittle. It can also cause unwanted changes in hair color.
• Hard Water and Mineral Buildup: Exposure to hard water can lead to mineral buildup on the hair, making it appear dull and causing dryness.

Heat Damage

• Heat Styling: Frequently using heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers can cause the hair’s proteins to break down, leading to weakened, curly, and brittle hair.
• High Temperatures: High heat settings or holding styling tools too close to the hair can accelerate heat damage. Heat should be applied cautiously and with protective products.
• No Heat Protection: Failing to use heat protectant sprays or serums can leave the hair vulnerable to the damaging effects of heat.
• Direct Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV rays can lead to dryness, color fading, and weakened hair strands.

Mechanical Damage

• Tight Hairstyles: Wearing tight hairstyles such as braids, ponytails, or buns can cause stress on the hair shaft, leading to breakage and hair loss, known as traction alopecia.
• Brushing and Combing: Vigorous or rough brushing and combing, especially when the hair is wet, can lead to hair breakage and split ends.
• Using Poor-Quality Hair Accessories: Hair accessories with rough edges or metal parts can snag and damage the hair. It’s essential to use gentle hair ties and accessories.
• Frequent Hair Manipulation: Constantly touching, twirling, or playing with your hair can lead to friction and damage over time.

Identifying signs of damaged hair

Split Ends

• Description: Split ends occur when the hair shaft splits into two or more strands at the tips. They can make your hair look frizzy and unkempt.
• Appearance: Look for small, Y-shaped splits at the ends of your hair strands.
• Causes: Split ends can result from excessive heat styling, harsh chemical treatments, rough brushing, or inadequate hair care.
• Texture: Split ends often feel rough and uneven when you run your fingers down the hair strand.

Dryness and Frizz

• Description: Dry and frizzy hair lacks moisture and looks dull and flyaway.
• Appearance: Hair appears rough, lacks shine, and may have a wiry, unruly texture. It may also stand away from the scalp.
• Causes: Dryness and frizz can result from overwashing, harsh shampoos, exposure to environmental elements (like sun and wind), and heat styling without heat protectants.
• Feel: When you touch dry hair, it may feel coarse and brittle. It’s more prone to breakage.

Breakage

• Description: Hair breakage occurs when the hair shaft weakens and snaps, causing shorter, uneven strands.
• Appearance: Look for shorter hair strands among longer ones or the presence of small broken hairs around the scalp and shoulders.
• Causes: Breakage can result from excessive styling, brushing when wet, using tight hair accessories, or using low-quality hair products.
• Feel: Broken hair strands often have a rough, jagged edge and may feel weaker than healthy hair.

DIY Hair Masks and Treatments

Here are four DIY hair masks and treatments that you can easily make at home to address various hair concerns:

Hydrating Hair Mask

Dry and damaged hair often lacks moisture. This hydrating mask will help replenish lost moisture and restore your hair’s natural shine and softness.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of coconut oil

Instructions:

• Mash the ripe avocado until it forms a smooth paste.
• Mix in the honey and coconut oil to create a creamy consistency.
• Apply the mixture to your damp hair, focusing on the ends.
• Cover your hair with a shower cap or a warm towel and leave it on for 30-45 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, then shampoo and condition as usual.
• This mask will leave your hair feeling soft, hydrated, and more manageable.

Strengthening Protein Treatment

Weak and brittle hair can benefit from a protein treatment to help fortify and strengthen the hair shaft.

Ingredients:

• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil

Instructions:

• Beat the egg in a bowl until well blended.
• Mix in the yogurt and olive oil to create a smooth mixture.
• Apply this mixture to your hair from roots to ends.
• Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water, followed by shampooing and conditioning.
• This protein treatment will provide strength and shine to your hair.

Repairing Avocado Mask

Avocado is rich in healthy fats and vitamins, making it a great choice for repairing damaged hair.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe avocado
• 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

• Mash the ripe avocado until it’s free of lumps.
• Mix in the yogurt and honey to create a creamy paste.
• Apply this mask to your hair, focusing on the damaged areas.
• Cover with a shower cap and leave it on for 30-45 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water and shampoo and condition afterward.

Nourishing Egg Yolk Treatment

Egg yolks are rich in proteins and vitamins, making them an excellent choice for nourishing your hair and promoting healthy growth.

Ingredients:

• 2 egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of honey

Instructions:

• Whisk the egg yolks in a bowl until they are well mixed.
• Add the olive oil and honey and continue to whisk until you have a smooth mixture.
• Apply the mixture to your hair, massaging it into your scalp and through the lengths.
• Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave it on for 30 minutes.
• Rinse with cool water, then shampoo and condition as usual.

Proper Hair Washing Techniques

Damaged hair is often fragile, dry, and prone to breakage, so it’s important to treat it with care during the washing process. Here are some detailed steps and tips to help you wash damaged hair effectively:

Pre-Wash Preparation

Before you even step into the shower, consider these preparatory steps:

• Look for sulfate-free and hydrating shampoos and conditioners specifically designed for damaged hair.
• Read product labels and select those with ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or shea butter, which can help repair and nourish damaged strands.
• Use a wide-toothed comb or a specialized detangling brush to gently remove knots and tangles from your hair before washing. Start from the tips and work your way up to the roots.

Wetting Your Hair

Ensure your hair is thoroughly wet before applying shampoo to prevent excessive friction and damage.

• Lukewarm Water: Use lukewarm water, not hot, to wet your hair. Hot water can strip your hair of natural oils and exacerbate damage.
• Gentle Water Pressure: Avoid strong water pressure that can tangle and roughen hair cuticles. Use a gentle stream of water.

Shampooing

• Proper shampooing techniques are essential for cleansing without causing further damage.
• Dilute Shampoo (Optional): Dilute the shampoo with water before applying it to your hair. This can help distribute it more evenly and reduce the harshness of the detergent.
• Focus on the Scalp: Apply a small amount of shampoo to your fingertips and concentrate on massaging your scalp gently. Don’t pile your hair on your head while shampooing; this can cause tangling.
• Avoid Scrubbing: Do not vigorously scrub your hair. Instead, use your fingertips to work the shampoo through your hair, letting it flow down the length.

Heat Styling Safely For Treatment Of Damaged Hair At Home

Heat styling can be a useful way to achieve the hairstyle you desire, even if you have damaged hair. However, it’s essential to take precautions to prevent further damage and promote the health of your hair. Here’s a detailed guide on how to safely use heat styling tools at home for the treatment of damaged hair:

Using Heat Protectants

• Choose the Right Heat Protectant: Start by selecting a quality heat protectant product. Look for one that is specifically formulated to protect hair from high temperatures. These products usually contain ingredients like silicones, which create a barrier on the hair shaft to minimize heat damage.
• Application: Before using any heat styling tool, apply the heat protectant evenly to your hair. Focus on the ends and mid-lengths as they tend to be more damaged. Comb through your hair to ensure even distribution.
• Allow Time to Dry: Let the heat protectant dry on your hair for a few minutes before using any heat styling tools. This helps it create a better protective barrier.

Optimal Heat Settings

• Know Your Hair Type: Different hair types require different heat settings. Fine or damaged hair is more sensitive to heat and should be styled at lower temperatures, while thicker or coarser hair can tolerate higher heat settings. Identify your hair type to determine the optimal temperature.
• Start at a Low Heat Setting: It’s always a good practice to start with the lowest heat setting and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired results. This minimizes the risk of overheating and causing further damage.
• Avoid Excessive Heat: Keep the temperature as low as possible to achieve the desired style. For most hair types, a temperature of 300-350°F (150-175°C) is sufficient for straightening or curling. Extremely high heat can weaken and damage your hair.

Styling Tools to Minimize Damage

• Use High-Quality Styling Tools: Invest in professional-grade styling tools with ceramic or tourmaline plates. These materials distribute heat more evenly and reduce the likelihood of hot spots that can cause damage.
• Hair Dryer with a Diffuser: If you’re using a hair dryer, attach a diffuser to reduce direct heat exposure and prevent frizz. Use the lowest heat and speed settings to dry your hair gently.
• Straighteners and Curling Irons: When using these tools, take small sections of hair and avoid clamping or wrapping hair too tightly. This will reduce the time hair is exposed to heat and lower the risk of damage.
• Limit Frequency: Try to minimize heat styling to no more than a few times a week. On non-styling days, opt for heatless hairstyles or use protective styles like braids to give your hair a break.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your styling tools clean and in good condition. Replace damaged or worn-out plates to ensure even heating.
• Cool Down: After styling, allow your hair to cool down before brushing or combing to prevent breakage.

Protective Hairstyles

Here, we’ll delve into the details of three common types of protective hairstyles: low manipulation styles, braids and twists, and bun hairstyles for damaged hair.

Low Manipulation Styles

Low manipulation styles are designed to reduce the amount of handling and styling your hair requires on a daily basis. These styles help protect your hair by minimizing exposure to friction, heat, and environmental factors. Some examples of low manipulation styles include:

• Twists: Two-strand twists are a versatile protective style. They involve twisting small sections of hair to create a rope-like appearance. Twists can be worn for several weeks, and you can switch up the size and thickness to achieve different looks.
• Roller Sets: This method involves setting your hair on rollers to create curls or waves without using heat. Roller sets are a gentle way to style your hair while protecting it from heat damage.
• Bantu Knots: Bantu knots are small, coiled knots created by twisting sections of hair. They can be worn as a style themselves or unraveled to create defined curls or waves.
• Wigs and Weaves: Protective wigs and weaves allow you to cover and protect your natural hair. You can switch up your look without constantly manipulating your hair.

Braids and Twists

Braids and twists are classic protective hairstyles that have been used for centuries. They are excellent choices for minimizing breakage and promoting hair growth. Here are some variations:

• Box Braids: Box braids are individual braids created by sectioning the hair into small boxes or squares. They can be short or long, thin or thick, and are often adorned with beads or other accessories.
• Cornrows: Cornrows are tightly braided rows of hair that are close to the scalp. They can be simple or complex in design and are known for their protective qualities.
• Senegalese Twists: Senegalese twists are long, slender twists created with extensions. They are less damaging to your natural hair than tightly coiled twists.
• Havana Twists: Havana twists are thicker, chunky twists that provide a fuller and textured look. They can be achieved with extensions or on your natural hair.

Bun Hairstyles for Damaged Hair

Bun hairstyles are protective in that they keep your hair gathered and protected from the elements. They are an excellent option if your hair is damaged and in need of recovery. Some bun hairstyles to consider include:

• Low Bun: A simple bun created at the nape of the neck. It’s gentle on your hair and can be customized with various accessories.
• Gibson Tuck: This elegant hairstyle involves rolling your hair into a low bun at the back of your head. It’s ideal for formal occasions.
• Messy Bun: A relaxed, casual bun that is easy to achieve. It’s perfect for everyday wear and can be adapted for different hair lengths and textures.
• Braided Bun: Combine the protective benefits of braids with the elegance of a bun by creating a braided bun. It’s a stylish and protective option for various occasions.

Nutritional Support for Damaged Hair at home

By focusing on a balanced diet, incorporating vitamins and supplements, and ensuring proper hydration, you can help restore and maintain the vitality of your hair.

Balanced Diet for Strong Hair

• Protein: Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin. Ensure your diet includes lean protein sources like poultry, fish, beans, and nuts. Incorporate foods rich in amino acids, such as eggs, which are vital for hair growth and repair.
• Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss. Include iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, and lentils in your diet. Pair these with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance iron absorption.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds. Omega-3s help maintain a healthy scalp and improve hair texture.
• Biotin: Biotin, a B-vitamin, is crucial for hair health. Foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, and sweet potatoes contain biotin and promote hair growth.
• Zinc: Zinc deficiency can lead to hair thinning. Incorporate zinc-rich foods like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds into your diet.

Hydration and Its Impact

• Water: Proper hydration is essential for healthy hair. Dehydration can make hair dry and brittle. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses (64 ounces) of water daily.
• Moisturizing Shampoos and Conditioners: Use hair products designed to lock in moisture and prevent further damage. Look for ingredients like glycerin and natural oils.
• Humidifier: In dry climates, using a humidifier in your home can help maintain hair moisture levels.
• Avoid Excessive Heat: Limit the use of hot styling tools like hairdryers and straighteners. Excessive heat can lead to hair damage and dehydration.

Vitamins and Supplements

• Biotin Supplements: If your diet lacks biotin, consider taking biotin supplements, but consult with a healthcare professional before doing so.
• Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D levels support hair follicle health. Sun exposure and vitamin D supplements may be necessary, especially in low-sunlight regions.
• Multivitamins: A well-rounded multivitamin can help ensure you’re getting essential vitamins and minerals for hair health.
• Iron Supplements: If you have iron-deficiency anemia, consult with a healthcare provider about iron supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can damaged hair be fully repaired?

Damaged hair can be improved and its condition can be significantly restored, but it’s usually not possible to fully repair hair that has undergone extensive damage, such as severe chemical or heat damage. Regular maintenance, deep conditioning, and a proper hair care routine can help improve the overall health and appearance of damaged hair.

How often should I use DIY treatments?

The frequency of using DIY hair treatments depends on the specific treatment and your hair’s needs. Generally, deep conditioning treatments can be used once a week or as needed for damaged hair. However, it’s essential not to overdo it, as excessive treatments can lead to product buildup and weigh your hair down.

What is the best way to prevent future damage?

To prevent future hair damage, consider the following:

• Limit the use of heat styling tools and use them on low heat settings.
• Avoid over-processing your hair with excessive chemical treatments.
• Use a heat protectant spray before using heat styling tools.
• Trim your hair regularly to get rid of split ends.
• Be gentle when brushing or detangling wet hair.
• Use a sulfate-free and gentle shampoo and conditioner.
• Protect your hair from the sun and harsh weather conditions.
• Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated for overall hair health.

Are there any quick fixes for damaged hair?

While there are no instant fixes for damaged hair, there are products like leave-in conditioners, hair serums, and hair masks that can provide temporary improvement in the appearance and manageability of damaged hair. However, long-term recovery requires consistent care and patience.

Can I color my hair while repairing damage?

Coloring damaged hair can be tricky, as it may exacerbate the damage. It’s generally advisable to wait until your hair is in better condition before applying hair dye. Consult with a professional hairstylist who can assess your hair’s health and recommend appropriate treatments to prepare it for coloring. Using semi-permanent or demi-permanent dyes can be less damaging than permanent ones.

Conclusion

Taking care of damaged hair at home is not only convenient but also cost-effective. Following the tips and remedies discussed in this guide, you can revitalize your hair, making it stronger, shinier, and more resilient.

Remember that consistent care and a little extra attention to your hair can go a long way in bringing it back to life. So, bid farewell to those bad hair days and say hello to healthier, happier locks – all from the comfort of your own home.