Top Tips For Dry & Damaged Hair
Dry, damaged hair stressing you out? You’re not alone. I see this all the time, says Jodie Senior Creative stylist at our Hillhead salon – especially during the winter when cold weather and indoor heating can really drain our hair’s moisture.
But with a few easy changes, you can give your dry hair the care it craves and get back to glossy, healthy locks.
Why does hair become dry and dull?
Your hair can get parched for a few reasons – maybe it’s frequent washing, chemicals, high-heat styling or even just the weather (hello, winter winds). All these can strip away your hair’s natural oils, leaving it looking brittle, dull and prone to frizz. The good news? A few swaps in your routine can make a world of difference, says Jodie.
5 essential steps to rescue dry hair
#1. Rethink your shampoo
“Start with a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo,” says Jodie. Many regular shampoos contain harsh ingredients that strip away moisture.
Look for a shampoo that’s specifically designed to hydrate and nourish dry, damaged hair, like Redken’s ABC.
You’ll be surprised at how this small change can help keep your hair soft and shiny.
#2. Condition like a pro
Conditioner is key to sealing in moisture, preventing breakage and giving your hair a smooth finish. Focus on the lengths and ends of your hair, which are often the driest and most damaged. Leave your conditioner on for a minute or two for maximum effect, advises Jodie.
A lightweight yet nourishing conditioner, like Redken’s ABC, is perfect for adding softness and moisture without weighing down your hair.
#3. Treat yourself to a weekly mask
A weekly mask works wonders for parched hair. Think of it as a deep drink for your strands.
Choose a hydrating mask like Redken’s ABC 5 minute mask and leave it on a the name suggests for 5 minutes for best results.
#4. Ask about a bonding treatment
“Bonding treatments strengthen and repair hair from the inside out,” explains Jodie. These treatments penetrate deep into the structure of each strand, making dry, damaged hair stronger, healthier and less prone to breakage.
Whether you have coloured hair or just need an extra boost, talk to your stylist about adding one to your next appointment. As an added bonus, this treatment also helps your colour last longer while strengthening your hair. It’s a game-changer 🌟
#5. Get regular trims
Snipping off those dry ends every 6-10 weeks helps prevent further damage and keeps your hair looking fresh. Even if you’re growing your hair out, trimming split ends stops them from working their way up the hair shaft, keeping your locks healthier in the long run, says Jodie.
TLC for dry, damaged hair
For ongoing moisture and protection, try Jodie’s tips:
- Avoid high-heat styling. If you can, give your hair a break from heated tools like straighteners and curlers. When you do use heat, keep the temperature low and always use a heat protectant. I recommend ABC leave in treatment for dry, damaged hair.
- Shield from the weather. In winter, cold and wind can dry out your hair, so if you’re outside a lot, wear a hat. In summer, the sun rays are drying, so spritz with One United for protection. It’ll help keep your colour looking salon-fresh too.
- Wash less often. Stretch out the days between washes to let your scalp’s natural oils do their thing. “It’s like skincare – the less you strip away, the better,” says Jodie.
Start now, and you’ll be on your way to soft, shiny, healthy hair soon. And remember, your stylist is here to help. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice and recommendations at your next appointment – we’re in this together.