How to repair over-processed hair

How to repair over-processed hair

In an effort to cut costs or get the perfect look the only way they know, some women choose to do their hair at home or go to 'unprofessional' hairdressers. A few are lucky to get away with it but some end up with lifeless, damaged and dull hair.

A trained hairdresser knows exactly how to apply relaxers, colour or heat to your hair and how much of each is sufficient. Over-processed hair is hair that has been damaged by excess or prolonged use hair colour, relaxers or heat, and requires extra care and commitment.

If your hair is over-processed, you don't need to worry as there are ways you can bring your hair back to life without spending much money.

Break: Over-processed hair has split ends and looks weak and dull. The first thing you should do is take a break from the causes of the dullness. Avoid heat, relaxers or hair colour and let your hair rest till it goes back to its original state. So keep away from the flat iron, blow dryer or any chemical.

Deep conditioning treatment: Make this a frequent occurrence, if possible. Hot oil treatment is the best for this and can actually be done at home (if unsure how, visit the salon). Massaging coconut or olive oil to the scalp on a daily basis will also help as with time, you hair will gain its strength and shine.

Using leave-in conditioner will also keep your hair under control. Get a leave-in conditioner that is suited for over-processed hair and use this at least three times a week.

You could also do a home treatment. Mix some egg yolk with a tablespoon of plain yoghurt and apply to your hair. Leave it on for about an hour, and then wash it off with the right shampoo.

Shampoo/conditioner: Only use shampoo or conditioner that is specifically meant for damaged hair. Your hairdresser should guide you on this. Wash your hair only with lukewarm water, not hot water, which is likely to damage your hair cuticles and end up weakening your hair.

Brushing: Avoid frequent brushing of the hair in a day as this may lead to you losing more hair. When you comb and if you have to, use a wide tooth-comb. Brush your hair only two times a day and avoid doing it when your hair is wet as the likelihood of breakage when it is in this state is higher.

Sunlight: As much as possible, avoid exposing your hair to direct sunlight or strong breeze as this also weakens your hair. Cover it with a hat or a headscarf when you are exposed to the sun or riding on a boda boda or behind a pick-up.

Trimming: As we said before trimming is good to avoid split ends. For over-processed hair, do this every four to six weeks. For split ends, ensure you trim them first so that it grows back faster. If you have split ends, go for a trim to get rid of all of them. This is an important start and will help you get back on track quicker.