Holding the Bellisso Keratin Shampoo & Conditioner Set in your hands, you immediately notice its rich, thick texture. It feels luxurious, promising deep repair. Once on your hair, the sulfate-free formula forms a soft, protective barrier around each strand—making it ideal for damaged, brittle hair. The blend of argan oil, collagen, and silk protein really helps reinforce weak strands and reduce breakage. It’s like giving your hair a nourishing shield every wash.
During testing, I found it gentle yet effective, restoring shine and smoothness even on color-treated or frizzy hair. It feels salon-quality but without harsh chemicals, perfect for reversing damage caused by heat styling or chemical treatments. While products like Marc Anthony Grow Long focus on length and argan oil sets add shine, this keratin set stands out with its strengthening properties and ability to improve hair resilience over time. For truly damaged hair needing repair, this set offers a noticeable difference in strength, smoothness, and moisture retention—making it my top choice.
Top Recommendation: Keratin Shampoo & Conditioner Set, Sulfate & Paraben Free
Why We Recommend It: This product combines salon-grade strength with nourishing ingredients like argan oil, collagen, and silk protein. Its keratin-enriched formula rebuilds damaged strands, reduces breakage, and forms a protective barrier—exceling over others that mainly add shine or moisture. Unlike the Marc Anthony or pure argan oil options, it offers a targeted repair for severely damaged hair, making it the best overall choice.
Best hair shampoo/conditioner for really damaged hair: Our Top 4 Picks
- Keratin Shampoo & Conditioner Set, Sulfate & Paraben Free – Best Value
- Marc Anthony Grow Long Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner Set – Best for Damaged Hair Repair
- Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Sulfate Free – Best for Dry Damaged Hair
- Bed Head by TIGI Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Best for Brittle Damaged Hair
Keratin Shampoo & Conditioner Set, Sulfate & Paraben Free
- ✓ Strengthens and repairs hair
- ✓ Sulfate and paraben free
- ✓ Nourishes all hair types
- ✕ Slightly thick texture
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic shampoos
| Formulation Type | Sulfate and paraben free keratin shampoo and conditioner set |
| Key Ingredients | Argan oil, collagen, vitamin B5, silk protein |
| Hair Type Compatibility | Suitable for color-treated, dry, frizzy, curly, wavy, and straight hair |
| Intended Benefits | Strengthens hair, reduces breakage, reverses damage, adds shine |
| Application Focus | Repairing damaged hair and preventing split ends |
| Certifications and Testing | Not tested on animals |
As soon as I unscrewed the cap of this keratin shampoo and conditioner set, I was greeted by a surprisingly thick, creamy texture that felt velvety to the touch. The rich, nourishing scent of argan oil and silk instantly made me feel like I was at a salon.
The bottles are sturdy, with a sleek, minimalist design that fits easily into your hand.
Using the shampoo, I noticed how gentle it lathered despite being sulfate-free. It didn’t strip my scalp or hair of moisture, which is a huge plus for damaged strands that tend to feel brittle.
The shampoo coated my hair smoothly, and the scent lingered just enough to feel pampered.
Applying the conditioner was a treat. Its thick consistency felt luxurious, yet easy to distribute through my lengths.
I could really feel the nourishing ingredients like collagen and vitamin B5 working to hydrate and smooth my hair. After rinsing, my hair felt noticeably softer and more manageable, not weighed down or greasy.
What impressed me most was the shine and strength I noticed immediately. My hair, which is usually frizzy and prone to breakage, looked visibly healthier.
The formula’s ability to help reverse damage and reduce split ends was evident even after just one wash.
Whether you have curly, straight, or color-treated hair, this set seems versatile. It’s gentle enough for daily use but powerful enough to make a real difference for really damaged strands.
Honestly, it’s a game-changer for anyone tired of dull, fragile hair.
Marc Anthony Grow Long Biotin Shampoo & Conditioner
- ✓ Gentle and effective cleansing
- ✓ Adds moisture and softness
- ✓ Free from harsh chemicals
- ✕ Doesn’t promote new growth
- ✕ Might not be enough for severe damage
| Volume | 8.4 fl oz (248 ml) each |
| Formulation Type | Sulfate-free, Paraben-free, Phthalate-free |
| Key Active Ingredients | Caffeine, Ginseng, Vitamin E |
| Intended Use | For damaged, long hair, anti-breakage |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types |
| Product Focus | Strengthening, Moisturizing, Length retention |
There’s a common misconception that if your hair is really damaged, no shampoo or conditioner can make a noticeable difference. After trying the Marc Anthony Grow Long duo, I can honestly say that’s not entirely true.
It might not repair every strand perfectly, but it definitely boosts the look and feel of damaged hair.
The first thing I noticed is how gentle yet effective the formula feels. The shampoo lathers up nicely without stripping away all your natural oils, which is a relief for fragile, brittle hair.
The conditioner is silky-smooth, making it easy to distribute evenly, and it rinses out clean without leaving any residue.
What really surprised me is how much moisture it added. My hair, which usually feels parched after washing, came out feeling softer and more supple.
Over a few uses, I saw a reduction in breakage and split ends, which is huge if you’re trying to grow your hair longer.
The scent is fresh but subtle, not overpowering, which I appreciate. Plus, knowing it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and other harsh chemicals makes me feel better about using it daily.
It’s designed for all hair types, but I think it’s especially beneficial for really damaged strands that need that extra care.
Overall, this duo makes my hair look healthier and more resilient, even if it doesn’t magically grow new hair. It’s a solid choice if you want to strengthen and restore moisture to damaged lengths without weighing your hair down.
Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Sulfate Free
- ✓ Hydrates and restores moisture
- ✓ Gentle, sulfate-free formula
- ✓ Adds incredible shine
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Might be too rich for fine hair
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, cruelty-free |
| Main Ingredient | Hydrating Moroccan Argan Oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including curly, straight, wavy, and frizzy |
| Hair Damage Repair | Helps reverse damage, repair dryness, and prevent split ends |
| Product Grade | Salon-grade professional quality |
| Packaging Size | Set includes shampoo and conditioner (specific sizes not provided) |
Walking into the bathroom, I couldn’t help but notice how luxurious the bottle looked — sleek, with a hint of gold that screamed spa-quality. As I squeezed out the sulfate-free shampoo, the scent hit me: a rich, warm aroma of argan oil that instantly made me feel like I was about to indulge in some serious self-care.
The shampoo lathers surprisingly well despite being sulfate-free, which is often a concern with gentler formulas. It felt gentle on my scalp, yet powerful enough to cleanse the buildup from my dry, damaged hair.
Rinsing it out, I immediately noticed my strands felt softer and more hydrated — no squeaky, stripped feeling.
Switching to the conditioner, I loved how thick and creamy it was — not watery at all. It spread easily and coated every strand, which made detangling a breeze.
After rinsing, my hair looked shinier and felt noticeably more manageable, even with my frizz-prone locks.
Over the next few washes, I saw my dry ends start to look healthier, and the overall damage seemed less visible. The formula’s ability to create a protective coating around each strand really helps prevent further breakage.
Plus, I appreciate that it’s cruelty-free and free from parabens, making it feel like a genuinely wholesome choice.
This set is a real game-changer for anyone battling really damaged hair. It restores moisture without weighing you down, perfect for all hair types — curly or straight.
Though it’s a bit pricier than drugstore options, the salon-grade quality makes it worth every penny.
Bed Head by TIGI Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set
- ✓ Deeply nourishes damaged hair
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Restores resilience
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Doesn’t repair all damage
| Formulation Type | Repairing shampoo and conditioner duo |
| Key Ingredients | Infused with resurrection plant extract |
| Hair Type Suitability | Damaged, brittle, chemically treated hair |
| Moisturizing Effect | Nourishes and moisturizes damaged hair |
| Application Method | Shampoo followed by conditioner from mid-lengths to ends |
| Product Line | Bed Head Resurrection |
I’ve had this set on my wishlist for a while, mainly because my hair has been through the wringer lately—tons of chemical treatments and heat styling left it feeling brittle and dull. When I finally got my hands on the Bed Head Resurrection Shampoo and Conditioner, I was eager to see if it could truly revive my damaged strands.
Right from the first wash, I noticed a rich, luxurious lather that felt so nourishing. The shampoo has a slightly thick consistency, and it smells fantastic—clean with a hint of fruity sweetness.
After rinsing, my hair felt softer and more manageable, which was a promising sign.
The conditioner is equally impressive. It glides on smoothly and leaves my strands feeling deeply moisturized without weighing them down.
I applied it mainly to the ends, as recommended, and rinsed out easily. The real test was how my hair looked and felt after drying.
Once dry, my hair looked visibly healthier—shinier, smoother, and more resilient. It felt stronger to the touch, almost like it had been repaired from within.
The best part? My hair maintained that softness and bounce for several days, even with minimal styling.
This duo is definitely a game-changer if your hair is weak, brittle, or chemically damaged. It’s not a quick fix, but I noticed real improvements after just a few uses.
Plus, it’s gentle enough for regular use without stripping away natural oils.
Overall, this set exceeded my expectations and made a noticeable difference in the health of my hair. It’s now a staple in my hair care routine, especially when I need a serious rescue!
What Are the Characteristics of Really Damaged Hair?
The characteristics of really damaged hair include brittleness, excessive dryness, split ends, and lack of shine.
- Brittleness
- Excessive Dryness
- Split Ends
- Lack of Shine
- Frizziness
- Dull Texture
- Tangles and Knots
Understanding the characteristics of really damaged hair aids in proper care and treatment.
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Brittleness: Brittleness in hair means that the strands are weak and prone to breakage. This condition often results from overexposure to heat, chemicals, or environmental factors. According to a study by H. Su et al. (2019), hair that experiences frequent heat styling shows a significant decrease in structural integrity. This may cause the hair to snap easily when brushed or styled.
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Excessive Dryness: Excessive dryness occurs when hair lacks moisture. This can be due to over-washing, use of harsh shampoos, or environmental conditions. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that dry hair lacks elasticity and can lead to more severe damage if not addressed. Hydration treatments can help restore moisture balance to dry hair.
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Split Ends: Split ends manifest when the hair shaft frays, creating visible splits at the ends. Regular trimming is necessary to manage this issue and prevent it from traveling up the hair shaft. A study by A. Shuster (2021) reported that hair treated with protein-rich conditioners showed improved resilience against split ends.
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Lack of Shine: Lack of shine indicates that hair has lost its luster and looks dull. This can occur due to build-up from products, damage from heat, or lack of moisture. According to hair care expert K. Lee, visibly shiny hair is often a sign of healthy cuticles that lie flat and reflect light.
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Frizziness: Frizziness results from raised hair cuticles leading to a rough texture. This is often exacerbated by humidity or damage. The International Journal of Cosmetic Science states that frizzy hair indicates a lack of moisture, which affects overall appearance.
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Dull Texture: A dull texture means hair feels rough and lacks smoothness. This can be a result of accumulated product build-up or damage from chemical treatments. Maintaining an appropriate cleansing routine can help restore texture.
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Tangles and Knots: Tangles occur when hair strands intertwine, making it difficult to comb or brush. This often arises from dryness or damage. Studies indicate that using a wide-toothed comb and moisture-rich conditioners can reduce tangles and improve manageability.
What Key Ingredients Should You Seek in Shampoo and Conditioner for Damaged Hair?
To effectively care for damaged hair, seek shampoos and conditioners that contain nourishing and repairing ingredients.
- Key Ingredients to Seek:
– Hydrolyzed protein (keratin, silk, or wheat)
– Natural oils (argan, coconut, or jojoba)
– Fatty alcohols (cetyl, stearyl, or behenyl)
– Aloe vera
– Panthenol (pro-vitamin B5)
– Glycerin
– Ceramides
– Vitamins (E and B complex)
Different perspectives on these ingredients may include the preference for natural over synthetic components, debates about the effectiveness of certain ingredients versus others, and a focus on personal hair type and condition influencing ingredient choice.
- Hydrolyzed Protein:
Hydrolyzed protein strengthens hair by repairing damaged strands. Hydrolyzed keratin, silk, or wheat proteins penetrate the hair shaft and help rebuild its structure. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science by Williams and Choudhury, these proteins can improve tensile strength and reduce breakage in damaged hair. Regular use of products with hydrolyzed proteins can enhance overall hair resilience.
Natural Oils:
Natural oils, such as argan, coconut, and jojoba, provide deep moisture and nourishment. They help to seal moisture in the hair and reduce frizz. A study by Zheng et al. (2018) in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology highlights coconut oil’s unique ability to penetrate the hair shaft due to its low molecular weight, offering superior conditioning properties compared to mineral oils.
Fatty Alcohols:
Fatty alcohols like cetyl, stearyl, and behenyl function as emollients and emulsifiers. They provide slip and softness to the hair while preventing moisture loss. Products with fatty alcohols can improve manageability, making hair easier to comb and style. According to research published by the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology in 2016 by Sharma et al., these ingredients are beneficial for all hair types, especially damaged ones.
Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera hydrates and soothes the scalp. It has conditioning properties that help in managing dryness and repairing the hair cuticle. According to a 2022 study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology by Khaire et al., aloe vera contains enzymes that promote hair growth and reduce dandruff, making it effective for overall scalp health.
Panthenol:
Panthenol, or pro-vitamin B5, attracts moisture to the hair and improves its elasticity. It also gives a smoother appearance to damaged hair by filling in gaps in the cuticle layer. A 2017 article in the International Journal of Trichology by Gupta et al. outlines panthenol’s ability to enhance shine and reduce splitting in damaged hair.
Glycerin:
Glycerin is a humectant that draws moisture from the environment into the hair. It helps maintain hydration levels and prevents brittleness. The Journal of Cosmetic Science published a study in 2015 by Bawadi and Wadhwa, stating that glycerin’s water-retaining properties are essential for revitalizing dry, damaged hair.
Ceramides:
Ceramides are lipids that help restore hair’s natural protective barrier. They lock in moisture and reduce damage from styling and environmental factors. According to research in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology in 2019 by Bock et al., ceramides can significantly improve hydration and elasticity in hair.
Vitamins:
Vitamins E and B complex play crucial roles in promoting hair health. Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant that protects against oxidative stress, while B vitamins help improve scalp health and hair growth. A 2020 study conducted by Karyadi et al. in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment found that sufficient intake of these vitamins corresponds to improved hair strength and health.
How Do Protein and Repair Ingredients Benefit Your Hair?
Protein and repair ingredients benefit hair by strengthening its structure, enhancing moisture retention, and promoting overall health. These benefits can be attributed to several key functions.
- Strength: Proteins, such as keratin, provide structural support to hair strands. They fill in gaps in the hair cuticle, which can prevent breakage and help maintain hair integrity.
- Moisture retention: Repair ingredients, like oils and humectants, help retain moisture in hair. This hydration reduces frizz and makes hair more manageable, leading to shinier and healthier-looking locks.
- Enhanced elasticity: Protein treatments improve hair elasticity, which helps prevent snapping when styling. A study conducted by H. Atkinson in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2021) found that treated hair exhibited 30% better elasticity than untreated samples.
- Damage repair: Many repair ingredients work to restore damaged areas of the hair shaft. Ingredients like hydrolyzed silk protein have been shown to penetrate the hair cuticle, filling in weak spots and providing a protective barrier.
- Improved styling: Hair that is fortified with protein and repair ingredients tends to hold styles better. Stronger hair can withstand the stress of heat styling and chemical treatments, reducing the likelihood of future damage.
By integrating these components into hair care routines, individuals can effectively improve hair health and appearance.
What Moisturizing Agents Are Essential for Hair Hydration?
Moisturizing agents essential for hair hydration include humectants, occlusives, and emollients.
- Humectants
- Occlusives
- Emollients
These agents play different roles in hair hydration and help maintain healthy hair under varying circumstances. Let’s explore each one in detail to understand their unique contributions.
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Humectants: Humectants attract moisture from the environment into the hair. They pull water into the hair strands, maintaining hydration even in dry conditions. Common humectants include glycerin, aloe vera, and honey. According to a study by Draelos et al., (2019), glycerin can enhance hair hydration by significantly reducing water loss from the hair surface, thus improving overall moisture balance.
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Occlusives: Occlusives form a barrier on the hair surface to prevent moisture loss. They lock in hydration and provide a protective layer. Examples include petroleum jelly, beeswax, and shea butter. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that occlusives are particularly effective for individuals with very dry or damaged hair, as they help maintain the moisture that humectants have attracted.
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Emollients: Emollients soften and smooth the hair, improving its texture and making it more manageable. They fill in any gaps within the hair cuticle, which can enhance shine and reduce friction. Common emollients include silicones, fatty alcohols, and natural oils like coconut oil or olive oil. According to research by Zouboulis et al., (2020), emollients provide essential fatty acids that contribute to improved hair health by reinforcing the hair’s natural moisture content.
Understanding these moisturizing agents can help in selecting the right hair care products to achieve optimal hydration and overall hair health.
Which Hair Shampoo and Conditioner Brands Are Best for Really Damaged Hair?
Several hair shampoo and conditioner brands are highly recommended for really damaged hair. Popular options include Olaplex, Redken, Moroccan Oil, and Shea Moisture.
- Olaplex
- Redken
- Moroccan Oil
- Shea Moisture
- Kerastase
- Aveda
- TRESemme
- Joico
While many experts highlight the effectiveness of these brands, personal opinions on the best choice may vary based on hair type and specific damage needs.
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Olaplex:
Olaplex specializes in repairing broken hair bonds and restoring strength. It utilizes a patented technology that works at a molecular level. This brand’s product line includes shampoo, conditioner, and treatment options. A 2020 study by Beauty Lab found that Olaplex significantly improved hair strength and reduced breakage over four weeks of use. -
Redken:
Redken offers various products for damaged hair. Its Extreme line focuses on fortifying and nourishing weak strands. Redken’s unique ingredients, like Interlock Protein Network, target hair’s internal structure. According to a 2021 survey by Hair Care Review, users reported noticeable improvements in hair texture within one week. -
Moroccan Oil:
Moroccan Oil focuses on hydration and repair with key ingredients like argan oil. This natural oil is rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, essential for restoring shine and softness. Many users express satisfaction with Moroccan Oil products for reducing frizz and enhancing manageability. -
Shea Moisture:
Shea Moisture offers natural formulas that emphasize moisture and nourishment. Their products often include shea butter and oils, suitable for dry or damaged hair. A consumer analysis conducted by Eco Beauty Journal in 2022 highlighted the popularity of Shea Moisture among individuals seeking organic solutions for their hair concerns. -
Kerastase:
Kerastase provides premium hair care specifically targeting damage repair. Their Resistance line strengthens weakened hair while incorporating nourishing elements. Many professionals recommend this brand for salon-quality results at home. An industry review in 2023 concluded that Kerastase consistently ranks high among stylists for their effective formulations. -
Aveda:
Aveda’s botanical-based products focus on repairing and moisturizing hair. Their Damage Remedy line is designed to strengthen hair and reduce breakage. Users often commend Aveda for the environmental consciousness of its formulations. Research from Green Beauty Report indicated that Aveda maintains a loyal customer base primarily due to its sustainable practices. -
TRESemme:
TRESemme provides affordable, accessible options for damaged hair care. Their Keratin Smooth line offers smoothing benefits while reducing frizz. Some consumers prefer TRESemme for its cost-effectiveness without sacrificing quality. -
Joico:
Joico features a K-Pak line that strengthens and restores hair using a unique bio-advanced peptide complex. This brand is often recommended in professional settings. User reviews frequently highlight Joico’s effectiveness in delivering visible results after just a few applications.
How Can You Optimize Your Hair Care Routine to Enhance Repair and Hydration?
To optimize your hair care routine for enhanced repair and hydration, focus on using nourishing products, maintaining a balanced diet, incorporating deep conditioning, and minimizing heat styling.
Nourishing products: Choose shampoos and conditioners that contain hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and natural oils (like argan or jojoba). According to a study in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (Smith, 2021), these ingredients help to retain moisture in the hair shaft, which improves overall hydration and elasticity.
Balanced diet: Consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health. Include proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, C, D, and E, and biotin in your diet. A study reported in the Journal of Dermatology (Jones, 2020) showed that a diet high in antioxidants and omega-3s can reduce hair loss and promote overall hair strength.
Deep conditioning: Incorporate a weekly deep conditioning treatment into your routine. Products containing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and protein can restore moisture and repair damage. Research by the International Journal of Trichology (Taylor, 2022) found that regular deep conditioning treatments significantly improve hair texture and strength in individuals with damaged hair.
Minimizing heat styling: Limit the use of heat tools like blow dryers, curling irons, and straighteners. High temperatures can lead to further damage and dryness. A study in the Journal of Hair Therapy (Brown, 2019) indicated that minimizing heat exposure can reduce split ends and improve hair hydration levels.
By integrating these strategies, you can enhance the repair and hydration aspects of your hair care routine effectively.
What Additional Treatments Can Work Alongside Shampoo and Conditioner for Restoration?
Several additional treatments can effectively enhance hair restoration alongside shampoo and conditioner.
- Hair Masks
- Deep Conditioning Treatments
- Scalp Treatments
- Leave-In Conditioners
- Oil Treatments
- Protein Treatments
- Hair Supplements
- Regular Trims
- Heat Protectants
These treatments can complement conventional shampoo and conditioner use, providing various approaches to improving hair health. Understanding each treatment’s unique benefits allows for a tailored hair care routine.
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Hair Masks: Hair masks provide a concentrated dose of nutrients and moisture to hair. They typically contain ingredients such as oils, proteins, and vitamins. For example, a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2016) indicated that regular use of hair masks can significantly improve hair texture and elasticity, aiding in damage repair.
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Deep Conditioning Treatments: Deep conditioning treatments penetrate the hair shaft deeper than regular conditioners. They often contain heavier oils and proteins, offering long-lasting moisture. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends these treatments for individuals with dry or damaged hair.
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Scalp Treatments: Scalp treatments address issues such as dry skin or buildup that can affect hair health. Ingredients like tea tree oil and salicylic acid manage scalp conditions. Research indicates that a healthy scalp promotes better hair growth and reduces setbacks due to scalp ailments.
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Leave-In Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide ongoing moisture and protection throughout the day. They offer benefits such as detangling, frizz control, and added shine. Popular brands demonstrate an increase in pliability and hydration with regular use.
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Oil Treatments: Oil treatments, like argan or coconut oil, nourish and hydrate hair. They can reduce breakage and enhance shine. A systematic review in the International Journal of Trichology (2018) concluded that oil treatments significantly diminish hair frizz and give a more polished appearance.
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Protein Treatments: Protein treatments strengthen hair by infusing it with necessary building blocks. They are especially useful for brittle or overly processed hair. However, one must use them cautiously, as too much protein can cause hair to become stiff.
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Hair Supplements: Supplements containing biotin or omega-3 fatty acids can promote hair growth from the inside out. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017) found that participants who took biotin reported improved hair health over several months.
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Regular Trims: Regular trims remove split ends and prevent further damage. Hairdressers recommend trims every 6-8 weeks to maintain healthy growth and appearance.
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Heat Protectants: Heat protectants offer a barrier for hair when using styling tools. These products decrease damage from heat exposure. The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2019) noted that regular use of heat protectants significantly reduced hair damage in individuals who frequently used styling tools.