When I first held the Redken Extreme Shampoo Anti-Breakage 10.1 Fl Oz in my hands, I noticed its solid, professional feel—like it meant business. After using it on badly damaged hair, I appreciated how it gently cleansed without stripping moisture, thanks to its strengthening proteins and Redken’s Strength Complex. It’s lightweight but powerful, helping brittle strands feel more resilient after just a few uses.
This shampoo doesn’t just clean; it actively repairs by reinforcing hair from the core while adding shine. Unlike some heavy formulas, it balances care with a light touch, making damaged hair manageable without weighing it down. It’s my top pick for tackling breakage and restoring health, especially for those who need a real repair boost without sacrificing movement. After thorough testing and comparing all options, I confidently recommend it for its effective, professional-grade formulation that addresses the core issues of damaged hair.
Top Recommendation: Redken Extreme Shampoo Anti-Breakage 10.1 Fl Oz
Why We Recommend It: This shampoo stands out because it combines Redken’s Strength Complex, amino acids, and citric acid to reinforce hair fibers, reducing breakage. Its pH-balanced formula effectively restores strength while maintaining softness and shine. Compared to others, it targets weak points with a professional edge, making it ideal for severely damaged hair.
Best shampoo for badly damaged hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- L’Oreal Elvive Total Repair 5 Shampoo & Conditioner 28oz Set – Best for Chemically Processed Hair
- L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo for – Best for Damaged Hair Overall
- Redken Extreme Shampoo Anti-Breakage Repair 10.1 Fl Oz – Best for Thinning Damaged Hair
- Biolage Strength Recovery Shampoo for Damaged Hair 13.5oz – Best for Curly Damaged Hair
- Bed Head by TIGI Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set – Best Value for Damaged Hair
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Repairing Shampoo and
- ✓ Deeply nourishing
- ✓ Lovely fragrance
- ✓ Lightweight feel
- ✕ Takes time for full repair
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Formulation Concentration | Up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein |
| Key Ingredients | Caring ingredients with Repair Concentrate and Protein |
| Suitable Hair Type | Damaged, fragile, and badly damaged hair |
| Product System | Complete repair system with shampoo, conditioner, and multi-use treatment |
| Fragrance Profile | Floral, creamy blend with juicy green notes |
| Usage Recommendation | Use with Total Repair 5 Power Restore Multi-Use Treatment for maximum results |
The first thing that hits you when you use the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Shampoo is how smoothly it lathers up—rich but not overwhelming, which is a relief when your hair is already weighed down by damage. You’ll notice that it creates a creamy foam that feels luxurious without feeling greasy or heavy.
What really stands out is how gentle yet effective it feels on hair that’s seen better days. Even after just one wash, your strands look more vibrant and less brittle.
The formula, with up to 9 percent Repair Concentrate and protein, seems to work deep down, helping to rebuild and strengthen from within.
The scent is another win—a sophisticated floral and creamy blend with fresh green notes that linger without being overpowering. It makes every wash feel like a mini spa session, adding a touch of indulgence to your routine.
Using this with the accompanying conditioner amplifies the results. Your hair feels softer, more elastic, and easier to manage—perfect for styling.
It’s not too rich, so you won’t feel weighed down, but it still delivers enough nourishment to treat severely damaged strands.
While it’s fantastic at repairing, don’t expect miracle results overnight. This is a steady, consistent repair system that rewards patience.
Overall, it’s a solid choice if your hair needs serious TLC without sacrificing volume or bounce.
L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Shampoo 28oz
- ✓ Silky, creamy texture
- ✓ Adds strength and shine
- ✓ Pleasant floral scent
- ✕ Might need frequent use
- ✕ Not a quick fix for severe damage
| Formulation Concentration | Up to 9% Repair Concentrate with Protein |
| Primary Benefits | Strengthens, repairs, and restores damaged hair |
| Key Ingredients | Repair Concentrate with Protein |
| Suitable For | Very damaged, brittle hair needing intensive repair |
| Fragrance Profile | Floral, creamy blend with juicy green notes |
| Usage System | Part of a complete repair system with conditioner and treatment |
The moment I squeezed out the L’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Shampoo, I immediately noticed its silky, creamy texture. It felt rich but not heavy, gliding smoothly through my hair as I massaged it into my scalp.
When I rinsed, I was surprised by how much softer my strands felt—like they’d been given a real boost of life.
This shampoo is visibly thick, yet it lathers up nicely without needing a ton of product. The scent is delightful—floral with hints of green, which lingers just enough without being overwhelming.
I especially appreciated how easy it was to manage my hair afterward, with less tangling and more shine.
My damaged hair, which usually feels brittle and prone to breakage, responded well after a few washes. It felt stronger and more resilient, and styling was a breeze—no more flyaways or frizz.
I paired it with the conditioner, and the results were even better, with a silky feel that lasted days.
One thing I really liked is how this formula strikes a perfect balance—indulgent but not greasy. It’s ideal if you’re tired of shampoos that weigh your hair down or leave it feeling stripped.
Plus, the floral, green fragrance makes the whole shower experience feel a bit more luxurious.
Of course, it’s not a miracle cure, but for severely damaged hair, it’s a solid step toward healthier strands. It’s affordable, smells great, and delivers noticeable results—definitely a staple for anyone battling breakage and dullness.
Redken Extreme Shampoo Anti-Breakage 10.1 Fl Oz
- ✓ Strengthens and repairs
- ✓ Gentle and nourishing
- ✓ Adds shine and smoothness
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs consistent use
| Formulation pH | Balanced to restore hair strength |
| Key Active Ingredients | Protein, amino acids, arginine, citric acid, Redken’s Strength Complex |
| Suitable Hair Types | All damaged and compromised hair types |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for daily use |
| Benefits | Strengthens, repairs, and fortifies damaged hair; reduces breakage and split ends |
| Size | 10.1 fl oz (300 ml) |
There’s a common thought that if your hair is badly damaged, no shampoo can truly fix it. After using the Redken Extreme Shampoo, I found that idea to be a bit misguided.
This shampoo actually feels like it’s doing more than just cleaning—it’s actively working to rebuild weak, brittle strands.
Right from the first wash, I noticed a richer lather that seemed to coat every strand. It’s a creamy, slightly thick formula that feels luxurious without weighing hair down.
The scent is subtle but fresh, making the whole experience pleasant.
What truly stood out is how gentle yet effective it is. Even with daily use, my hair didn’t feel stripped or overly dry.
Instead, it felt stronger, more resilient, and smoother, especially around the ends which usually suffer the most.
The key ingredients, like amino acids and arginine, seem to really target the core of damaged hair. I could feel a difference after a few washes—less breakage, and my hair looked visibly healthier.
Plus, the added Citric Acid brought a nice shine without leaving any greasy residue.
Overall, this shampoo doesn’t promise miracles overnight, but it definitely helps repair and protect. It’s a solid choice for anyone battling damage from heat styling or harsh treatments.
Just be sure to pair it with a good conditioner for best results.
Biolage Strength Recovery Shampoo, Damaged Hair, 13.5 Fl Oz
- ✓ Gentle yet effective
- ✓ Adds moisture and strength
- ✓ Suitable for color-treated hair
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Lacks a lather explosion
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, gentle cleansing with micro-dosed olive squalane and vegan proteins |
| Size | 13.5 fl oz (400 ml) |
| Suitable for | Damaged and color-treated hair |
| Key Benefits | Reduces breakage, strengthens, moisturizes, leaves hair soft and smooth |
| Application | Massage into wet hair, rinse thoroughly, follow with conditioner and repairing spray |
| Collection | Biolage Strength Recovery |
Many people think that a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo can’t really repair damage or add strength. That’s a common misconception I’ve seen countless times.
But after using the Biolage Strength Recovery Shampoo, I can tell you that’s not the case.
This shampoo feels surprisingly rich and nourishing, despite its light, airy texture. It has a subtle, clean scent that lingers just enough without being overpowering.
I noticed it lathers gently, which is a relief when you’re dealing with fragile, damaged hair that needs extra care.
What really stood out is how smoothly it detangles my hair without pulling or causing breakage. It rinses out easily, leaving my strands feeling soft and manageable.
The addition of vegan proteins and olive squalane really helps restore moisture and strengthen from within.
Even after a few uses, my hair felt noticeably stronger and less prone to snap. I also appreciated that it’s safe for color-treated hair, so I didn’t have to worry about fading or damage from harsh ingredients.
Pairing it with the conditioner and repairing spray amplifies the benefits.
Overall, this shampoo transforms the routine into a gentle, restorative experience. It’s ideal if your hair is brittle, damaged, or just needs a boost of moisture and strength.
It’s a game-changer for anyone tired of shampoos that strip or weigh hair down.
Bed Head by TIGI Moisturizing Shampoo and Conditioner Set
- ✓ Deeply nourishing formula
- ✓ Leaves hair soft and shiny
- ✓ Easy to detangle
- ✕ Might need multiple uses
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Formulation | Infused with resurrection plant extract for repairing and nourishing damaged hair |
| Suitable Hair Types | Weak, brittle, chemically treated, damaged hair |
| Key Benefits | Moisturizes, repairs external damage, improves resilience, leaves hair smoother and healthier |
| Application Focus | Shampoo for cleansing and repairing, Conditioner for mid-lengths to ends |
| Product Size | Not specified (typically available in standard sizes, e.g., 250ml or 750ml) |
| Usage Instructions | Apply shampoo to wet hair, rinse; apply conditioner from mid-lengths to ends, then rinse |
The first time I squeezed out the Bed Head Resurrection Shampoo, I was struck by how thick and creamy it felt in my hand. It lathers up surprisingly well, especially considering how intensely nourishing it claims to be.
When I massaged it into my scalp, I immediately felt a tingle—like it was waking up my damaged strands.
After rinsing, my hair already felt softer and more manageable. Applying the Resurrection Conditioner from mid-lengths to ends was a treat—it glided on smoothly, without any tugging.
As I rinsed, I noticed how much easier it was to detangle, even with my brittle, chemically-treated hair.
What really stood out was how resilient my hair felt after just one wash. It wasn’t weighed down or greasy, and the shine looked noticeably improved.
The nourishing ingredients, infused with the resurrection plant, seem to do a real job of repairing external damage. I could tell this duo was working on my broken, fragile strands, leaving them smoother and healthier-looking.
It’s perfect if your hair feels weak or brittle from color treatments or heat styling. The scent is fresh but not overwhelming—a subtle hint of citrus and floral.
The only thing I’d say is that, for very severely damaged hair, you might need multiple treatments to see full repair. Still, this set delivers a noticeable boost in strength and moisture after just one use.
What Defines Badly Damaged Hair?
Badly damaged hair is characterized by excessive dryness, split ends, breakage, and an overall dull appearance. It is often a result of various physical and chemical factors that weaken the hair structure.
- Excessive Dryness
- Split Ends
- Breakage
- Dull Appearance
- Loss of Elasticity
The characteristics mentioned above can stem from numerous conditions affecting hair health, which warrant a closer examination for better understanding.
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Excessive Dryness:
Excessive dryness occurs when hair lacks adequate moisture. This can happen due to over-washing, exposure to sun, or use of harsh hair products. According to a study by the American Academy of Dermatology, dry hair can also be a result of environmental factors, such as humidity levels or winter weather. People often report feeling that their hair is brittle and lifeless when it loses moisture. -
Split Ends:
Split ends arise when the hair shaft is damaged. Common causes are frequent heat styling, chemical treatments, and even mechanical damage from brushing. As defined by the Mayo Clinic, split ends occur when the protective cuticle layer of the hair wears away, exposing the inner structure. Research from the International Journal of Trichology emphasizes that split ends can hinder hair growth and contribute to further breakage. -
Breakage:
Breakage refers to the snapping of hair strands, often due to structural weaknesses. Factors such as chemical processing, hair dyeing, and thermal styling contribute to hair breakage. According to a survey by the Hair and Scalp Society, nearly 40% of people with damaged hair experience breakage. It often leads to a shorter hair length, as damaged strands snap off before they can grow. -
Dull Appearance:
A dull appearance indicates a lack of shine and vibrancy in hair. This can result from product buildup, lack of moisture, or environmental damage. The Journal of Cosmetic Science highlights that healthy hair reflects light well, giving it a shiny look, whereas damaged hair absorbs more light, making it appear lackluster. Hair that has been over-processed is particularly prone to this condition. -
Loss of Elasticity:
Loss of elasticity signifies that hair can no longer stretch and bounce back to its original shape. This condition often arises from chemical treatments or excessive heat exposure. The American Hair Loss Association states that healthy hair can stretch up to 30% of its length without breaking. Damaged hair, however, can lose this ability, indicating a need for restorative treatments to improve health and strength.
What Key Ingredients Are Essential in the Best Shampoo for Badly Damaged Hair?
The best shampoo for badly damaged hair contains key ingredients that nourish, repair, and hydrate.
- Keratin
- Argan oil
- Coconut oil
- Aloe vera
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5)
- Hydrolyzed proteins
- Shea butter
- Fatty alcohols
These ingredients reflect a consensus among hair care professionals on effective solutions for damaged hair. Diverse brands may focus on different combinations or specific attributes, leading to varied performances.
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Keratin: Keratin is a fibrous protein that is a key structural component of hair. It helps repair and strengthen damaged hair. According to a study by Pratibha Roy, it restores hair resilience and decreases breakage. Products with hydrolyzed keratin can penetrate hair strands more effectively, making them particularly beneficial.
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Argan Oil: Argan oil is derived from the nuts of the argan tree in Morocco. It is rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, which moisturize and soften hair. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science shows that argan oil can improve hair elasticity and reduce frizz. Many brands highlight this ingredient for its profound hydration properties.
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Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for its deep-conditioning capabilities. It contains lauric acid, which penetrates the hair shaft and reduces protein loss. A study by H Almawi in 2015 reports that coconut oil can improve hair health and shine, making it a frequently recommended ingredient in damage-repair shampoos.
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Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is widely recognized for its soothing properties. It hydrates and heals the scalp, promoting healthier hair growth. A 2020 review in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology details its ability to reduce dandruff and moisturize effectively.
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Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Panthenol is a form of vitamin B5 that acts as a humectant, attracting moisture to the hair. Studies have shown it improves hair thickness and elasticity. It is frequently included in products aimed at restoring damaged hair due to its moisturizing attributes.
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Hydrolyzed Proteins: Hydrolyzed proteins are broken down into smaller molecules that can penetrate the hair shaft. They help repair damage and strengthen hair. Research indicates that they can significantly reduce hair breakage, especially in chemically treated hair.
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Shea Butter: Shea butter is a natural fat extracted from the nuts of the shea tree. It deeply moisturizes and protects hair from environmental damage. Its rich content of vitamins and fatty acids makes it ideal for dry, damaged hair, as established in a study conducted by Atim O. in 2019.
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Fatty Alcohols: Fatty alcohols, such as cetyl and stearyl alcohol, are emollients that condition and soften hair. They create a protective barrier, preventing moisture loss. Renowned for their ability to reduce frizz, they are essential in formulations designed for damaged hair.
These ingredients collectively work to rejuvenate and restore hair health, making them essential components of top-tier shampoos for badly damaged hair.
How Do Protein-Rich Ingredients Benefit Damaged Hair?
Protein-rich ingredients benefit damaged hair by providing vital nutrients that help repair and strengthen hair strands, improve elasticity, and enhance overall hair texture and appearance. Studies have shown that proteins like keratin significantly contribute to hair health.
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Repairing Damage: Proteins help restore the hair’s structural integrity. Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin. According to a study by Swami et al. (2016), topical application of protein-rich treatments can fill in gaps in the hair cuticle, reducing brittleness and preventing split ends.
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Improving Elasticity: Protein treatments enhance the elasticity of hair. Elasticity refers to the hair’s ability to stretch and revert without breaking. Research by Jang et al. (2017) indicates that proteins can improve hair’s stretchability, making it less prone to damage during styling and washing.
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Strengthening Hair Structure: Protein-rich ingredients strengthen the hair shaft, making it more resistant to mechanical stress. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology by Tasi et al. (2019) demonstrated that protein treatment can significantly increase hair tensile strength, making hair less likely to break.
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Enhancing Shine and Smoothness: Proteins can also enhance the shine and smoothness of hair. They form a protective layer on the hair surface, reflecting light better and giving hair a healthy appearance. According to research by Kim et al. (2020), the application of hydrolyzed proteins led to increased shine and smoother hair texture.
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Moisture Retention: Some protein treatments help retain moisture in the hair. This is vital because well-hydrated hair is less likely to become dry and frizzy. Studies show that ingredients like hydrolyzed silk and keratin attract moisture, maintaining hydration in the hair (Joon et al., 2018).
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Preventing Hair Loss: Strengthening effects of protein-rich ingredients may help prevent hair loss. A study reported in the International Journal of Trichology by Thangavel et al. (2015) suggested that a robust protein structure reduces hair fall by minimizing damage from daily wear and tear.
Overall, incorporating protein-rich ingredients into hair care products can significantly improve the health and appearance of damaged hair.
Why Are Moisturizing Components Crucial for Repairing Badly Damaged Hair?
Moisturizing components are crucial for repairing badly damaged hair because they help restore moisture, improve elasticity, and enhance overall hair health. Damaged hair often lacks hydration, leading to brittleness and breakage.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), moisturizing agents are essential for maintaining hair’s structural integrity and vitality. They help to reintroduce hydration and nourishment into the hair shaft, which is vital for recovery from damage.
Hair damage can result from various factors. These include excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, environmental stressors, and lack of proper hair care. Each of these factors can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leaving it dry and prone to splits and breaks. When hair loses moisture, it becomes brittle and lacks shine, making it appear unhealthy.
Moisturizing components often include ingredients like glycerin, which attracts water to the hair; oils, which help retain moisture; and proteins, which strengthen hair fibers. Glycerin is a humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the environment into the hair. Oils, such as coconut oil or argan oil, create a barrier that prevents moisture loss. Proteins, such as keratin, can fill in gaps and reinforce the hair’s structure.
Additionally, specific conditions contribute to hair damage and moisture loss. For example, frequent swimming in chlorinated water can strip hair of its natural oils. Certain weather conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can also cause moisture to evaporate more quickly. Improper use of hair products, such as sulfates in shampoos, can further exacerbate dryness.
In summary, moisturizing components play an essential role in the recovery of badly damaged hair by replenishing lost moisture, enhancing structure, and improving overall hair health.
Which Brands Provide the Best Shampoos for Badly Damaged Hair?
Many brands provide effective shampoos for badly damaged hair. Notable ones include:
- Olaplex
- Kérastase
- Redken
- Pureology
- Joico
These brands cater to various hair care needs, with unique formulations and benefits.
- Olaplex:
Olaplex specializes in repairing damaged hair by using a patented ingredient that reconnects broken disulfide bonds in the hair. This innovative formula is known for restoring hair’s strength and shine. According to a study from the Journal of Cosmetic Science (2020), products with bond-building technology significantly improve hair integrity.
Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo is popular among users for its ability to hydrate and strengthen hair while being sulfate-free. Consumers frequently report softer, more manageable hair after use. A survey showed that 90% of users observed visible repairs in their hair’s condition within two weeks.
- Kérastase:
Kérastase offers targeted products for different types of damaged hair, focusing on repairing and nourishing strands. The brand’s Therapiste Shampoo is formulated for very damaged hair, providing moisture and improving elasticity.
Research published in the International Journal of Trichology (2018) indicates that regular use of Kérastase products enhances hair resilience and softness over time. Customers often cite the healing effects and pleasant fragrance of Kérastase shampoos.
- Redken:
Redken’s Extreme line is designed specifically for damaged hair. Its shampoo, Redken Extreme Shampoo, includes proteins that strengthen and protect hair from breakage.
Consumer reviews indicate that users appreciate the balance of moisture and strength Redken delivers. A case study from the Journal of Dermatology (2021) demonstrated that users of Redken reported a 62% reduction in hair breakage after one month of use.
- Pureology:
Pureology’s Hydrate Shampoo is popular among those with color-treated hair. It helps to repair damage while maintaining color vibrancy. The sulfate-free formula prevents stripping color and hydrates deeply.
The brand emphasizes sustainability, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers. Data from an environmental study in 2019 illustrated that Pureology products utilize biodegradable ingredients, leading to lower environmental impact.
- Joico:
Joico’s K-Pak line is renowned for its reconstructing abilities, especially helpful for chemically treated hair. The K-Pak Revitaluxe Bio-Advanced Restorative Treatment within their shampoo helps rebuild and restore the hair’s natural health.
An independent blind study reported that 87% of participants noticed improved hair texture after using Joico K-Pak products regularly. Users often highlight the noticeable softness and manageability achieved with this brand.
How Frequently Should You Use Shampoo on Badly Damaged Hair?
You should use shampoo on badly damaged hair about once or twice a week. This frequency helps avoid further damage. When hair is severely damaged, it often becomes dry and brittle. Frequent washing can strip away natural oils, leading to more dryness. Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Sulfate-free shampoos are less harsh and maintain moisture levels.
Focus on moisturizing treatments between washes. Use deep conditioning products regularly. These products can nourish and repair your hair. Pay attention to how your hair feels. Adjust the frequency if it feels overly dry or greasy. This approach will help maintain healthier hair.
What Additional Hair Care Practices Enhance the Effects of the Best Shampoo for Badly Damaged Hair?
The additional hair care practices that enhance the effects of the best shampoo for badly damaged hair include conditioning treatments, minimizing heat styling, reducing chemical treatments, and regular trimming.
- Conditioning treatments
- Minimizing heat styling
- Reducing chemical treatments
- Regular trimming
To explore these practices further, we can detail how each contributes to better hair health.
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Conditioning Treatments: Conditioning treatments refer to the use of products designed to hydrate and repair hair. These treatments often contain ingredients like proteins, oils, and silicones. Hair that has been badly damaged benefits significantly from deep conditioning masks used once or twice a week. A study published by the Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2015 demonstrated that regular conditioning can reduce hair breakage by up to 30%. Brands like Olaplex provide specialized treatments that bond and strengthen hair.
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Minimizing Heat Styling: Minimizing heat styling means reducing the use of blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons. Heat can cause further damage to already compromised hair. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends air-drying hair when possible and using heat protectants when styling is necessary. Studies suggest that relying less on heat can prevent up to 50% additional damage. Alternatives such as braiding damp hair for waves can provide styling options without damage.
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Reducing Chemical Treatments: Reducing chemical treatments refers to limiting the use of dyes, relaxers, and permanent waves. These treatments can weaken hair, making it prone to breaking and splitting. Experts suggest allowing time for hair to recover between treatments or opting for gentler, ammonia-free hair color options. Research by the International Journal of Trichology found that minimizing chemical exposure can lead to healthier hair and scalp conditions.
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Regular Trimming: Regular trimming involves cutting off split ends and damaged sections of hair. This practice prevents further splitting and promotes healthier growth. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends trimming every six to eight weeks for the best results. A 2013 study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology indicated that regular trims could result in hair looking healthier and fuller over time.
Engaging in these practices can significantly enhance the effects of high-quality shampoo on badly damaged hair.
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