Just as hair fall is a serious matter, hair breakage is not uncommon these days. It doesn’t matter if you’re losing a few strands or a large clump, hair breakage can always feel frustrating and stressful. The topic of hair breakage is a concern, but the good thing about it is that hair breakage has more to do with bad styling habits than more or more serious concerns. Among some of the prominent causes of hair breakage are excessive heat styling, chemical treatments, excessive brushing and poor nutrition.
Health Shots contacted Dr Navya Handa, a dermatologist and cosmetologist, at Primus Super Specialty Hospital, to understand how to deal with hair breakage.
Tips and tricks to reduce hair breakage
The silver lining in this topic of hair breakage is that it is usually the result of bad hair styling habits that can be easily reversed to bring your hair health back under control.
1. Say no to hair styling tools
Hair styling tools are one of the biggest causes of hair breakage. We all know that your hair can make or break your entire look. So, if you are ready for a party, you can’t stop but style your hair using different tools to look your best. Our expert says, “Try to stay away from these tools as much as possible. If you must use a heat styling tool, use a heat protectant spray to protect your hair from damage.”
2. Avoid washing your hair excessively
“Washing your hair excessively can strip your hair of its natural oils, making it brittle and prone to damage. Wash your hair more than once a day,” says the expert.
3. Use a mild detergent or shampoo
Using a harsh hair shampoo full of sulfates, parabens and other harmful chemicals strips your hair of its natural oils and causes breakage. Instead, always choose a gentle cleanser that does not contain these harmful chemicals that leave your hair smooth and healthy.
4. Brush your hair regularly
Brush your hair regularly. At least once a week, use a deep conditioning treatment to keep your hair moisturized and healthy. Using a conditioner post-shampoo makes your hair comfortable.
Also read: Don’t let knots defeat you: Try these 5 ways to detangle your hair and get rid of breakage.
5. Your diet is important
Whatever you eat in your body, is reflected in your skin and hair. Experts suggest that everyone eat a nutritious diet rich in vitamins and minerals to promote hair health and prevent breakage.
6. Avoid harsh chemicals
Chemical processes such as hair coloring, relaxing, and perming can damage and break your hair. If you are a person who likes these treatments and can’t control yourself, you should try to do it regularly or do it in a gentle way.
7. Be gentle with your hair
“Try not to give, pull, or brush your hair too much. Wash your hair with a wide-toothed comb and avoid brushing it when it’s wet,” suggests the expert. Just as you are gentle on your skin, you need to do the same with your hair.
You can help prevent hair breakage and promote healthy hair with these tips. If your hair breakage persists, seek guidance from a dermatologist or hair care professional.
