Skincare

 Print This Post

Hair Damage

109    Causes of hair damage – We all agree that healthy hair is basic to beauty. Yet, we see too much hair damage. Damaged hair is usually brittle and tends to break off easily, or acquire split ends. In fact, it weakens the hair and triggers off hair loss. It is therefore important to avoid hair damage as far as possible and also treat damaged hair. If your hair does not look as good as it used to, you can easily identify the signs. They lack lusture, become rough, have split ends and are brittle. In case of hair damage, the basic structure of the hair is usually affected. The scales may be ruffled, or even stripped off in an uneven manner, giving the hair a rough texture and a dry, dull, unmanageable look.

110.   We tend to forget that the hair is actually like a delicate fabric and should be treated as such. Instead, we follow styling techniques that can spell disaster. Indeed, procedures like dyeing, waving, straightening, bleaching, contribute to most of the hair damage that we see. They also weaken the hair by destroying its natural elasticity and resilience, leading to hair breakage and even hair loss. Some amount of damage is also caused by excessive use of hair dryers, wire brushes and the habitual tying back of the hair tightly. Nylon and wire brushes, wire rollers and tight tying of the hair with rubber bands can all cause enough trauma over a period of time, to lead to hair damage. Other causes of hair damage are excessive exposure to the sun and the use of harsh shampoos.

111.   Treatment for damaged hair – Though the cause of damage in individual cases is not difficult to establish. The first thing to do is to discontinue the procedures till health is restored to the hair. As damaged hair is in a fragile condition, it should be treated gently. Discontinue the use of brushes and use a wide toothed comb that has smooth edges. This is more so in the case of wet hair. The best way is to start at the ends and work upwards. Avoid pulling or stretching the hair. To some extent, the treatment of damaged hair is dependent on the hair type. In cases of excessive dryness, mix one part of castor oil with two parts coconut oil. Heat and apply. Remember to apply on the ends too. Then dip a towel in hot water, squeeze out the water and wrap the hot towel around the head, like a turban. Keep it on for 5 minutes. Repeat the hot towel wrap 3 or 4 times. This helps the hair and scalp absorb the oil better.