Hair breakage can be a frustrating and distressing experience, especially for those with natural hair. It can lead to thinning, frizz, and overall hair damage. However, there are steps you can take to stop hair breakage and promote hair growth in natural hair. In this article, we will explore the causes of hair breakage, how to identify if you have broken hair, and provide tips on how to fix and prevent hair breakage.
What Is Hair Breakage?
Hair breakage occurs when the hair strand becomes weak and brittle, leading to breakage or splitting. It is different from hair shedding, which is a natural part of the hair cycle. While shedding is normal and expected, hair breakage is a sign of damage and requires attention to prevent further breakage and promote hair growth.
What causes hair breakage?
Several factors can contribute to hair breakage, including:
- Styling Habits: Heat styling, aggressive brushing or combing, sleeping on wet hair, and using rough fabrics that cause friction can all lead to hair breakage.
- Tension and Tight Hairstyles: Pulling the hair into tight hairstyles, especially around the hairline, can cause hair breakage.
- Chemical Treatments: Overlapping chemical treatments, such as frequent hair dyeing or relaxing, can weaken the hair and lead to breakage.
- Lack of Moisture: Dry and brittle hair is more prone to breakage. Lack of proper moisturization can contribute to hair breakage.
How to Tell If You Have Broken Hair
Identifying broken hair is important in order to take appropriate steps to prevent further damage. Here are some signs that indicate you may have broken hair:
- Split Ends: Split ends occur when the hair strand splits into two or more parts at the end. This is a clear sign of hair breakage.
- Dry and Dull Hair: Hair that lacks moisture and appears dry and dull may be a result of hair breakage.
- Brittle Texture: Hair that feels rough and brittle to the touch is more likely to be prone to breakage.
- Visible Breakage: If you notice small pieces of hair on your clothes, comb, or brush, it may be a sign of hair breakage.
How to Fix Hair Breakage
While it is not possible to reverse hair breakage completely, there are steps you can take to improve the condition of your hair and minimize further breakage. Here are some tips to fix hair breakage:
- Moisturize: Proper moisture is essential for preventing hair breakage. Use moisturizing hair products, such as deep conditioners, leave-in conditioners, and water-based moisturizers to keep your hair hydrated and nourished.
- Avoid Heat Styling: Reduce or avoid using heat styling tools, such as flat irons and curling irons, as they can further damage the hair and contribute to breakage. Opt for heatless styling methods instead.
- Protective Hairstyles: Wear protective hairstyles, such as braids or twists, to minimize manipulation and tension on the hair. Be gentle when styling and avoid tight hairstyles that can cause breakage.
- Avoid Chemical Treatments: Give your hair a break from chemical treatments, such as hair dyeing or relaxing, to allow it to recover and strengthen. Choose natural and gentle alternatives whenever possible.
- Eat a Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for growth of strong hair. Include foods high in protein, vitamins A, C, and E, and omega-3 fatty acids to promote hair health.
How to Prevent Hair Breakage
Preventing hair breakage is key to maintaining healthy hair. Here are some steps you can take to prevent hair breakage:
- Moisturize Regularly: Keep your hair well moisturized by using moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and hair masks. Hydrated hair is less prone to breakage.
- Protect Your Hair at Night: Use a satin or silk pillowcase or wrap your hair in a satin or silk scarf before going to bed. This helps reduce friction and prevents breakage.
- Avoid Over-Manipulation: Minimize excessive brushing, combing, or styling, as it can cause hair breakage. Be gentle when detangling and use wide-toothed combs or your fingers.
- Use Heat Protectants: If you must use heat styling tools, always apply a heat protectant spray or serum to protect your hair from damage. If you’re searching for one to use, look no further than our Sapphire 2in1 Deep Conditioner and Leave-In Conditioner.
- Limit Chemical Treatments: Reduce the frequency of chemical treatments, such as hair dyeing or relaxing, to minimize damage to the hair. Opt for natural alternatives when possible.
What Hair Care Products Prevent Hair Breakage?
Choosing the right hair care products can make a significant difference in preventing hair breakage. Here are some hair care products that can help prevent hair breakage and promote healthy hair growth:
- Leave-In Conditioners: Leave-in conditioners provide continuous moisture and protection throughout the day. Use leave-in conditioners that contain hydrating ingredients like aloe vera or jojoba oil.
- Deep Conditioners: Deep conditioners are designed to provide intense hydration and repair damaged hair. We just know you’ll love our Sapphire 2in1 Deep Conditioner and Leave-In Treatment. Offering double the benefits, with natural ingredients like aloe vera and shea butter.
- Hair Oils: Hair oils can help seal in moisture and protect the hair from damage. Look out for our Tanzanite Hair Oil, made with an assortment of natural oils like avocado oil, castor oil, sunflower oil and peppermint essential oil. All these oils have nourishing and strengthening properties.
- Sulfate-Free Shampoos: Sulfate-free shampoos are gentler on the hair and do not strip away essential oils. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for damaged or dry hair, like our Sapphire Hair Shampoo and Tsavorite Clarifying Shampoo.
By incorporating these hair care products into your routine, you can help prevent hair breakage and promote healthy hair growth.
Remember to be gentle with your hair, moisturize regularly, and avoid excessive heat styling and chemical treatments. With these tips, you can minimize breakage and rock strong, beautiful natural hair.