Unfortunately, it is not possible to “repair” damaged hair as it is not a living tissue, so it can't heal itself. However, you can certainly help ease the signs of dryness and prevent further damage or breakage. Here are our top tips to help you bring your hair back to life.
Because hair is not a living tissue with regenerative ability, it cannot heal and repair. You can use oils, conditioners, hydrolyzed proteins or other ingredients to disguise the issues temporarily but it's akin to using makeup on the face.
Hair oil is a great way to add moisture to dry hair (they're great for boosting shine, too). After styling—ideally without heat—work a pea-sized amount of your favorite hair oil throughout your ends, distributing any excess product throughout your lengths.
In summary, while some improvements can be seen in weeks, full recovery for severely bleached and damaged hair may take several months to a year, depending on individual circumstances and care practices.
Coconut oil can have many benefits for your hair and scalp. It is used to relieve dandruff, restore luster to dry and damaged hair, tame frizz, and protect hair against styling damage. It is safe to use on all hair types.
Look for natural moisturisers, such as argan oil, coconut oil or shea butter, and soothing components, such as menthol (peppermint oil for hair is a good source of menthol). If you have scalp problems, try a medicated formula (such as a ketoconazole shampoo or Nizoral shampoo).
Washing your hair too often – this can strip the natural oils, leading to dry hair. Excessive blow-drying and straightening – too much heat exposure can dry out the cuticle and cause damage. Using harsh chemicals – certain chemicals from dying, perming or relaxing the hair can make it dry out.
Applying a deep condition after you shampoo will help the hair shaft release the barriers of buildup, sebum, and debris and in turn, help the hair shaft absorb the ingredients from your conditioner. So which option is best? For optimal results, deep conditioning on freshly shampooed, wet hair will be best.
Damaged Hair
All experts agree on this: when hair is damaged, it must be cut off. “If the damage is so bad (you're bleaching too much or using too much heat), that's when it becomes a cut instead of a trim,” says Polko.
A: Put simply, yes. Start by taking stock of what factors are hindering your hair health, then find products that complement what you're struggling with. For example, frizzy damaged hair needs a boost of moisture. Try the Intense Moisture Mask to regain control of your flyaways and smooth hair for good.
Unfortunately, it is not possible to “repair” damaged hair as it is not a living tissue, so it can't heal itself. However, you can certainly help ease the signs of dryness and prevent further damage or breakage.
Treat your hair with a deep conditioning mask once a week.
A deep conditioning mask can help replenish dry or damaged hair. Once a week, set aside of a chunk of time to deep condition your hair. Keep doing so until your hair is replenished and healthy again.
It may take a few weeks to properly rehydrate hair. First, concentrate on adjusting daily hydration habits and hair care methods. Then, give new moisturising products or targeted treatments for at least 2-3 months to improve moisture levels.
“Look for products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or aloe vera, which hydrate without leaving a greasy residue,” says Garshick. “Use a lightweight conditioner and avoid heavy oils or creams. A leave-in conditioner spray or a volumizing conditioner can also help add moisture without making hair flat.”
Product Build-up Could Be Blocking Moisture. If you've been layering on styling products without giving your hair a proper cleanse, those products might be preventing your conditioner from doing its job. Product build-up forms a barrier that blocks moisture from penetrating your hair strands.
Along with a change in oil production, our body stops creating melanocytes, the substance that colors our hair. This reduction in pigment also changes the structure of our hair, giving it that distinctive brittle feel.
How and when you choose to use coconut oil is up to you - most people apply coconut oil to the ends of wet hair after a shower, and then apply a small amount to dry hair as a finishing treatment or as a heat protectant before styling.
The overall result of the study provided evidence that rosemary oil may be effective for certain hair growth. A study from 2022 also found evidence that rosemary oil can aid in hair growth. The study stated that rosemary oil had the same effect as Minoxidil, a hair growth medication, after 6 weeks of use.