By Chelsea Reed

Our modern world embraces the power of self expression. Thanks to chemical technology, we can change our hair to whatever we want. From bleached blondes to relaxed locks, and even blue highlights! All this chemical processing, however, can do a number to our natural hair structure. 

Each hair strand is covered with a protective barrier called the cuticle that’s made up of scales, like roof shingles. Over processing your hair penetrates the cuticle like a leaky roof. Hair strands frizz, split, and even break off when they become over processed. 

If this your hair, it’s a sign that it’s begging for a well-deserved vacation. Give your locks the luxury treatment with these rescue tips!

Start from the Inside Out

A nutritional supplement can rebuild damaged hair from the ground up. Collagen, Biotin and Vitamin C are important nutrients for the hair follicle and cuticle. You may want to get more protein into your diet too, such as lean cuts of meat. It’s a long term commitment, but well worth the effort for your hair to bounce back faster and healthier. 

Mind the Heat

Ok, we admit it. Most of us whip out the curling iron or hair dryer every morning before going out. But if you have over processed hair, it’s best to avoid heat devices as much as possible. This means not using them more than once each week. When you do blow dry or style with hot irons, apply a heat protectant to your hair first. Many of them are lightweight formulas that won’t leave your hair greasy.

Watch What You Shampoo With

The shampoo you use can make or break the health of your over processed locks. Stay away from clarifying shampoos like the plague - they’ll only dry out your already fried hair. Check the ingredients of the shampoo, too. Common ingredients like sulfates, petrochemicals, and parabens may cause further damage. Shampoo formulas made with amino acids like this Loba Mane hair cleanser are much better. It repairs hair damage and helps restore natural hair lipids.

After you shampoo, follow up with a hair mask to unlock more restorative benefits. It’s like taking your hair to the spa after a hard day at work!

A Wise Investment

Sure, making heads turn with your salon bottle style can be a blast. But all that over processing is tough on your hair. Remember to take a break and invest in nourishing it with wholesome products. When your hair is healthy, you are healthy...and beautiful!

Chelsea Reed is a copywriter who writes online content, articles, blogs, and websites from her base in North Carolina.