How to Take Care of Brittle Hair in 7 Steps

Damaged hair can come in  many unfavorable forms, such as split ends, frizz, dryness, and even a brittle hair texture. Obviously no one wants hair damage, but sometimes it’s so easy to get carried away with hairstyling and new hair colors that we neglect a proper hair care routine. 

If you have dry, brittle hair, you may be wondering if there are steps you can take to bring life and moisture back to your mane. Don’t stress — there absolutely are. Take notes on the following seven hair care tips for brittle hair.

1. Switch Your Shampoo and Conditioner

Brittle hair requires extra TLC, as it tends to be dry and coarse. This means swapping your go-to shampoo and conditioner for a system that’s formulated to nourish your brittle strands. Try the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Shampoo, Paraben-Free and the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Hyaluron Plump Hydrating Conditioner, Paraben-Free, both of which are formulated with hyaluronic acid to replenish dry, brittle hair with vital nourishment and deep moisture for a silky,soft texture and healthy shine. 

2. Hydrate Your Strands

As you can imagine, brittle hair is typically in desperate need of hydration. To help add moisture back into your mane, reach for a hair treatment, like the L’Oréal Paris EverL’Oreal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm Rinse-Out Mask. This hair mask is formulated with almond oil and a repair protein concentrate to nourish and repair up to one year of damage in a single use. Apply the balm after shampooing, leave on for three to five minutes, and then rinse thoroughly.

3. Choose the Right Hairstyles

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), continuously wearing certain hairstyles — including braids, cornrows, ponytails, and hair extensions — can pull on the hair and cause tension that leads to breakage. While you don’t have to give up these styles entirely, try to give your mane a break every now and then.

Editor’s tip: Not only is it a good idea to avoid some styles, but brittle hair can also benefit from wearing certain styles. A little pro-tip — if it’s a good style for damaged hair, it’ll be good for your brittle tresses, too.

4. Skip the Blow-Dryer

When it comes to drying your hair, let your blow-dryer sit out on this one. Post-shower, the AAD recommends drying your hair by wrapping it in a towel or allowing it to air dry. If you opt to towel dry your hair, be sure to avoid any harsh rubbing.

5. Brush With Care

As you can probably guess by now, brittle hair has to be handled with care — particularly when it comes to brushing it. The AAD suggests allowing your hair to partially air dry before brushing or styling, as well as limiting the amount you brush your hair. You can forget all that talk about giving your hair 100 brush strokes a night.

6. Use Flexible Styling Products

The hairstyling products you use can also take a toll on your strands, particularly if they’re long-lasting. This is because, per the AAD, using a comb to style your hair after you apply a long-lasting product can cause your hair to break and lead to hair loss over time. No, thank you! 

Instead, look for styling products that offer a flexible hold, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented.

7. Be Mindful of Your Hot Tools

Last but not least, you’ll want to limit the use of hot tools on your brittle strands. According to the AAD, flat irons should be used at most every other day on a low or medium heat setting. Curling irons should be held in place only for a second or two to prevent excessive heat damage.

Next: 7 Best Hydrating Products Your Curly Hair Will Love

Edited by: Shannon Stubbs, Photo Credit: iStock