Straight, curly, coily hair, doesn't matter the hair type you have, all of them are prone to damage. This may be caused by using the wrong hair products, over-styling, chemical treatments, and more. You’ll know your hair is damaged if you’re starting to get split ends, it’s excessively dry even with hydrating products, you’re experiencing extreme frizz and breakage, or you have hair fall that goes beyond the average of 100 strands a day. Here’s a closer look at what causes damaged hair and how to fix it.

Signs of Damaged Hair

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Damaged hair happens when the protective outer layer of the hair, called the cuticle, gets compromised. This leaves the inner structure exposed to further harm, making your hair weak, dry, and prone to breakage. Damage can come from heat, harsh chemicals, overwashing, or even environmental factors like sun exposure. Here are the key signs to look out for:

• Your hair feels stretchy or gummy when wet.

• There’s constant tangling, even after detangling or conditioning.

• Some strands feel rough or bumpy.

• Your hair looks faded or dull.

• Your hair has an increased sensitivity to heat styling. Even minimal heat causes damage.

• There’s a general lack of bounce or movement.

• You have split ends that keep coming back even after trims.

• Your hair snaps or breaks easily when brushed.

• Your hair is excessively dry and frizzy.

What’s the Cause of Your Hair Damage?

We can’t really pinpoint hair damage to a single factor. It’s a complex issue that has a number of causes. Here are some of them:

1) Heat Styling Tools

Straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers are every girl’s best friend. But using them regularly can severely damage your hair. The high heat weakens the protein structure of your hair. Over time, this heat exposure strips away moisture from your strands which leaves them dry and more susceptible to split ends. If you’re not using a heat protectant, the damage is even worse.

2) Chemical Treatments

Coloring, bleaching, perming, or relaxing your hair can make you feel amazing and boost your confidence. However, not to put this lightly, these treatments can seriously damage your hair more than any other factor mentioned here. They break down the natural bonds in your hair to change its structure or color. Bleaching, in particular, can make your hair extremely fragile.

3) Harsh Hair Products

Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products with harsh ingredients like sulfates, parabens, or alcohol can strip your hair of its natural oils. Without these oils, your hair loses its protective barrier. They can cause buildup on your scalp which blocks hair follicles, further contributing to damage. Always check product labels and opt for gentler, sulfate-free options to minimize harm.

4) Poor Diet

Just like your skin, your hair health starts from within, and a diet lacking essential nutrients like protein, vitamins (like biotin and vitamin D), or minerals (like zinc and iron) can directly impact strength and growth. Without these, your hair becomes more prone to thinning, and dullness.

5) Towel Drying

Rubbing your hair aggressively with a towel might seem harmless, but it can cause serious damage. Wet hair is at its weakest, and the rough texture of most towels creates friction that leads to breakage and split ends. This habit can also disrupt the cuticle which makes your hair frizzy and harder to manage.

6) Stress

Chronic stress doesn’t just take a toll on your mind—it affects your hair too. Stress can disrupt your hair’s natural growth cycle, pushing more strands into the shedding phase (telogen effluvium). This can result in noticeable hair thinning or hair fall over time. Not to mention, stress can also lead you to neglect your hair, which might worsen the problem.

7) Tight Hairstyles

Tight ponytails, braids, or buns can strain your hair follicles. This tension can lead to a condition called traction alopecia, where the hairline starts receding, and hair becomes thin or falls out entirely. Over time, repeated stress on the same areas can cause permanent damage to your hair and scalp.

8) Certain Disorders

Hypothyroidism, alopecia areata, anemia, autoimmune diseases, dandruff, fungal infections, and scalp psoriasis can cause excessive shedding, inflammation or lead to hair thinning. Eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia can also affect hair. If you’re noticing sudden or severe changes in your hair, consult a doctor to rule out any medical issues.

What Can You Do to Fix It?

If your hair is already damaged, here’s what you can do to repair it:

• Reduce how often you use hot tools. When you do, always use a heat protectant and use the lowest effective heat setting. 

• Switch to sulfate-free shampoos and silicone-free conditioners. Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin.

• Use deep conditioning protein treatments or hair masks at least once a week. 

• Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like biotin, iron, and zinc. If required, you can take supplements, but consult a doctor first.

• Avoid using tight hairstyles. If you need to tie it up, use soft scrunchies and opt for loose styles.

• Get a trim every 6–8 weeks to remove split ends.

Final Thoughts

Damaged hair doesn’t happen overnight. It builds up over time from things like heat, chemicals, and everyday habits. The good news is you can start fixing it today. Start small by making one change to your routine.

If you’re constantly dealing with breakage from tight hairstyles, it’s time to switch to Burlybands. These strong, no-slip hair ties hold your hair securely without pulling, snapping, or causing damage. Shop with us today.