Dry, frizzy, dull, and prone to breakage – damaged hair is not pretty. Unlike many other hair types, damaged hair is not something you’re born with. Keep reading to learn what causes damaged hair, and how to treat it.

How to Treat Damaged Hair

If you have damaged hair, you’ll want to minimize further damage while adding strength back into your hair. Here’s how:

1. Make Peace with Your Natural Hair Type

Many women end up with damaged hair when they try to change their hair texture and color. Frequent applications of hair color, plus chemical treatments like relaxers and perms can totally destroy the hair shaft.

If your hair is fried, it’s time to go back to your roots. Literally. Your hairstylist may be able to color your hair back to your natural color so you can grow out your hair.

If you’ve altered the natural texture of your hair, you can try wearing protective hairstyles until your natural hair grows out (more on this later). Or if you’re feeling bold, ask your hairstylist for a big chop! While you’ll lose your lengths, your remaining hair will be instantly healthy and much easier to take care of.

2. Put Down the Styling Tools!

Styling tools (like curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers) aren’t doing your damaged hair any favors.

Ask your hairstylist for a cut that will work with your natural hair texture so you don’t need to worry about styling it every day. Your ideal haircut will allow you to simply wash your hair and let it air dry. Not only will your hair be healthier, but you’ll also save a lot of time!

3. Wear Protective Hairstyles 

Heat tools aren’t the only reason your hair is damaged. Vigorous brushing, too-tight hairstyles, and even friction from your clothes can cause breakage. 

That’s why protective hairstyles are so popular. These hairstyles work by reducing stress on your locks, giving your hair a chance to rest while allowing new, healthy growth. 

Depending on your hair type, braids, weaves, or even a wig may work best for you. Ask your hairstylist which protective hairstyles will work best with your hair. 

Need some inspiration? Here’s some of our favorite protective hairstyles: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEL7sJ54P6A

4. Make a Strengthening Mask

Making a DIY strengthening mask with gelatin can add much-needed protein back into your hair. Here’s what you need: 

     ● 1 tablespoon powdered gelatin

     ● ⅓ cup coconut milk

     ● 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

     ● 1 teaspoon raw honey 

Add coconut milk to a small saucepan. Gradually add in the gelatin while stirring with a whisk. Heat on medium, stirring constantly, until mixture is steaming. Allow to cool until it’s warm to the touch, then mix in apple cider vinegar and raw honey.

Apply to wet hair, then cover hair with a plastic shower cap. Let sit for 30 minutes and rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Condition hair, then rinse hair again.

When your hair dries it will look healthier, shinier, and smoother.

5. Eat a Hair-Healthy Diet

While all these measures will certainly help to diminish the appearance of hair damage, the only true way to escape damaged hair is to grow it out. Eating a diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals will provide your hair follicles with the necessary nutrients to grow new hair.

You might also consider using a hair supplement to ensure that your new growth is healthy and strong.

It can take a long time to recover from damaged hair, but stick with it! In a year, your hair will be well on its well to looking healthy again.