Our hair can be affected by various factors like smoke, dust, UV rays, or unsuitable hair products, which can cause it to become dry and brittle. Just like our skin, using the wrong products or washing hair too often can also cause damage. Hence, it is essential to pay attention to even the most straightforward hair care routine.
What are the factors that damage hair?
Physical and chemical factors can damage hair. The most common ones include:
– Aggressive hair dyes
– Perms
– Lacquers and alcohol-based sprays
– Rough scrubbing of hair
– UV rays
People living in large cities are also exposed to harmful particles from cigarette smoke, car exhaust, and fumes, which can accumulate on the hair and scalp, leading to dry hair and skin irritation. Other factors that can damage hair include:
– An unbalanced diet
– Hormonal changes
– Stress
– Poor hydration
How to protect hair
For better hair protection, it is essential to use gentle shampoos, masks, and conditioners that can restore the outermost structure of damaged hair and provide protection. Here are some suggestions:
- Choose the right shampoo for your hair type. Many shampoos contain sulfates, which are detergent-like ingredients that can remove excess dirt and oil but can damage hair. Therefore, it is best to use sulfate-free shampoos.
- Use products that moisturize the scalp.
- Comb your hair carefully. Hair, especially brittle hair, is prone to breakage. Excessive pulling caused by using the wrong comb or brush for your hair is one of the main reasons for breakage. It is better to use a wide-toothed comb or brush and brush your hair before getting into the shower. This will make it easier to detangle it once it is wet.
- Blot lightly instead of rubbing hard with the towel. It is better to wring out the water gently as if you were trying to “wring out” a sweater.
- Limit the use of hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons.
- Use a heat protection spray or serum on the hair before drying it.
