I’m often asked whether damaged hair can grow back healthy. As a hair expert, I know it’s the saddest thing to see your hair health end!
But don’t worry! I’ll answer all your questions, discuss the different types of damage, and how to properly care for your hair. Come along!
READ MORE: Does Sun Damage Hair?
Can Damaged Hair Grow Healthy?
There’s a lot of debate on whether damaged hair can grow healthy again. While damaged hair can grow back healthy, it largely depends on the extent of the damage and how you treat it.
Generally, if your hair has been severely damaged, by things like chemical processing, excessive heat styling, or color treatments, it may be impossible for it to return to its original state.
However, if your hair has only suffered minor damage, there are several things you can do to help it recover.
The first step is always prevention. Avoiding further damage is critical in helping healthy hair growth. Stop with the chemical processing and the heat tools.
You’ll also want to start using deep conditioning treatments once or twice a week — preferably with products that contain natural oils like argan oil, avocado oil or coconut oil.
These formulas will help rejuvenate your hair by intensely moisturizing it and restoring its protein levels.
Also, try washing your hair in cold water instead of hot water, as the heat can make things worse.
If you want beautiful hair again and you’re afraid of doing more damage, consider taking hair supplements including biotin or folic acid. These can promote thicker-looking growth in some people when taken every day for at least six months.
How Long Does It Take for Damaged Hair to Be Healthy Again?
It usually takes around 4 to 6 months for damaged hair structure to get back in good shape. The only way to keep your hair healthy is to allow it to grow without additional harm.
If you have damaged your hair by over-styling, too much heat, or harsh chemical dyeing, the good news is that with proper care it will recover completely.
Here are some daily habits that can help repair damaged hair. Check them out below.
1. Avoid Using Chemicals
The most important thing you can do to help your hair recover from damage [1] is to avoid using chemicals. Hair dyes and other chemical treatments strip away the natural oils that protect your hair.
If you’ve used harsh chemicals in the past, then it’s time to stop doing so now. Make an effort to use hair products that contain no harmful ingredients, such as sulfates or parabens.
You should also try avoiding heat styling tools like curling irons or straighteners; these can cause irreversible damage over time if used regularly!
I do not recommend hair dyeing for those with damaged locks because it will make them look worse than before treatment began. Even after one single application of colorant.
The chemicals in hair dye (ammonia and hydrogen peroxide) can dry out the hair, making it brittle and prone to hair breakage.
If you really must dye your hair, try using natural dyes made with ingredients like henna or indigo. They have other benefits like conditioning your hair and adding shine.
Related: How to Fix Broken Hair on Top of Head?
2. Do Proper Hair Conditioning
If you’re not already doing so, start conditioning your hair [2] every time you shampoo it. Conditioning helps to replace the natural oils that make your hair soft.
Look for a conditioner specifically made for damaged hair — they will contain ingredients like shea butter or argan oil, which can help repair and rebuild your locks.
Apply the conditioner evenly throughout your hair, making sure to concentrate on the ends where damage is most likely to occur.
Leave the conditioner in for a few minutes before rinsing it out; this will allow its nutrients to be fully absorbed into your hair shafts.
Try using deep conditioners once or twice a week if you have particularly damaged locks.
3. Take Advantage of Natural Damage Repair Shampoos
Get the shampoo that is specifically designed to repair hair damage. [3] The natural ingredients in this kind of product will help restore your locks’ vitality and shine.
You can find these shampoos at any drugstore or beauty supply store, but they may be more expensive than regular ones.
If price is an issue, consider making a homemade version with olive oil and water instead (mix equal parts). This should do just as good a job without breaking your bank account!
After washing it out well, make sure not to rub too hard on wet strands because this can cause frizz. Instead, pat dry gently using towels made from cotton materials only — avoid those made from synthetic fibers.
If you’re looking for a leave-in conditioner that will help detangle and soften your locks, then try using argan or coconut oil.
Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair after showering and before styling; you can also use it on dry hair as needed. These oils are known for their intense conditioning properties!
With a little bit of effort, you should see a noticeable difference in the health and vitality of your locks in no time!
Also, check out here to know more in detail about how long does it take for damaged hair to heal.
Does Cutting Off Damaged Hair Help It Grow?
No, cutting off your damaged hair won’t make it grow back healthy. It’s the adage of “you can’t get blood from a stone”, but in this case, it’s more like you can’t get healthy hair out of damaged hair follicles.
Cutting off your damaged hair will help you get rid of split ends and make for a nicer-looking hairstyle. But that’s about it as far as benefits go.
If you have suffered damage to your scalp or follicles (from medical conditions like alopecia areata), unfortunately, there is little that anyone can do to bring those hairs back.
FAQs
Do Damaged Hair Roots Grow Back?
Yes, as long as your scalp does not need to repair from injury. If your hair follicles are damaged, it could take up to four years to regrow hair generally, unless it is permanent, in which case no new hairs will emerge.
Why Does It Look Like Our Hair Grows Faster When We Use Masks?
Using hair masks can help reduce breakage, making it seem like your hair grows faster.
Using deep conditioning treatments helps ‘hide’ some damage by sealing in moisture. But unfortunately, once damaged, hair won’t go back to itsoriginal state — no matter how much coconut oil you rub into it!
How Can I Dry My Hair Without Damaging It?
Use a diffuser. This will help distribute the heat evenly throughout your hair and prevent any damage. You can also use a cool air setting on your hairdryer if you want to avoid heat damage altogether!
If you have very curly or textured hair, you might prefer air-drying. It won’t cause frizz or other styling problems. But don’t wait too long to towel-dry your locks. Wet hair is more prone to breaking than dry hair!
Conclusion
Damaged hair can grow back healthy if you stop using harsh hair products. This means that the best way to deal with hair damage is to prevent damage, not repair it.
Use products suitable for your hair type and avoid heat styling as much as possible. Also, have a nice haircut so that the ends do not break off easily, which will lead to split ends.
Check our list of haircuts for damaged hair.
And never forget to condition your hair after shampooing because this gives moisture and nourishment back into the dry locks on your head, making them soft and shiny once more!
Does damaged hair grow back healthy? Let us know your opinion below!
References
- 1. Davis K. How to repair damaged hair: Methods and how they work [Internet]. Cobb C, editor. www.medicalnewstoday.com. 2020. Available from: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-repair-damaged-hair
- 2. NYU Langone Health / NYU School of Medicine. Researchers regrow hair on wounded skin [Internet]. ScienceDaily. 2018 [cited 2022 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/11/181128082747.htm
- 3. Ferreira M. How to Repair Damaged Hair: Common Causes and Treatments [Internet]. Cobb C, editor. Healthline. 2018. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-to-repair-damaged-hair
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Sylvia is one of the most joyful people you’ll ever meet. She is a high advocate of self-love and encourages women to take care of themselves both mentally and physically. She loves girly talks especially salon talks (a little gossip doesn’t hurt) and spends most of her free time on skincare or hair care. You can find more about here HERE. Find her on LINKEDIN
