Why brittle hair

People can experience hair breakage that affects all types of hair from straight to curly. It can make hair look frizzy or coarse either at the ends or near the top, or crown, of the head. In most cases, hair breakage is temporary, and people can repair their hair and restore its strength by using products and home remedies. In this article, we look at 10 common causes of hair breakage and ways to treat and prevent future breakage and hair damage.

Products that people use for coloring, perming, or relaxing the hair contain chemicals that can weaken the hair and make it more likely to break. A study reported that the acidity, or pH, of a shampoo may affect hair breakage. Certain shampoos are alkaline, or basic, which can cause a negative charge on the hair. This creates more friction between hair strands and can lead to hair breakage. Avoiding the application of harsh chemicals to the hair and choosing a shampoo with a neutral pH can improve hair health.

People may not need to brush their hair as much as they think. The American Academy of Dermatology advise only brushing hair as much as people need to style it. Notably, the idea that people should brush their hair with brushstrokes is a myth. Frequently using heat on the hair can damage the hair shafts and remove the moisture from the hair, which can cause brittle hair and hair breakage. Rubbing wet hair with a towel can damage the hair, increase frizz, and cause breakage.

Wet hair breaks more easily than dry hair. Instead of rubbing the hair, try wrapping a towel around it to absorb the moisture, or letting it dry naturally in the air.

A lack of regular haircuts can result in split ends. These broken ends make the hair more likely to break higher up, nearer the hair shaft. Getting regular haircuts, even when an individual is growing out their hair, can help to keep hair healthy and strong. A hairdresser will also be able to give advice for maintaining healthy hair and addressing any current issues people may be experiencing. Nutrition plays an integral part in promoting healthy hair.

If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. This reduces its sheen and can make it appear frizzy and dull. Your hair consists of three layers. If your hair is healthy, natural oils in the outer layer help protect the inner layers. They also reflect light, making your hair appear shiny. Sheen and luster are two important signs of healthy hair.

A variety of factors can lead to dry hair, including environmental conditions, hair care habits, and your physical health. Examples include:.

They may be able to pinpoint the underlying cause. They may also refer you to a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in skin and hair conditions. During your appointment, your doctor or dermatologist may ask you questions about your symptoms, hair care routine, and lifestyle, such as:. They will likely examine your hair and scalp. In some cases, they may order one or more tests.

For example, they may collect a sample of your blood or urine to check for signs of certain medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or hypoparathyroidism. And if you foresee being in the sun for a few hours, try a UV-protectant spray or wear a hat to prevent your hair from drying out.

If you're trying to grow your hair out, it could be tempting to let it just do its thing while foregoing your usual trips to get it trimmed. But Taylor advises against skipping out on them. She says to trim ends every six to eight weeks to help with growth and keeping your hair healthy.

She says to look for signs like split ends and knots as indicators to book that hair appointment with your stylist. Sometimes, your appearance is a result of what's going on inside your body. So if your hair looks particularly fried but you don't practice any outwardly damaging habits like coloring and heat styling, it could be your diet.

Andrea Grange, RD, IdealFit partner dietitian nutritionist, explains that hair is made up of protein that requires good nutrition like the rest of the body. To make sure you have the right amount, she says to incorporate the following vitamins and minerals into your diet:. You can find vitamin A in carrots, sweet potatoes, red bell peppers, and spinach.

Adequate protein can be obtained via cottage cheese, meat, nuts, beans, tofu, and nut butter. Opt for iron-rich foods like in lean red meats, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and quinoa.

Eggs, legumes, mushrooms, liver, nuts, and seeds are good sources. Harsh weather and all that comes with it dryness, static, frizz etc. We feel this change of moisture in both our skin and in our hair.

The answer? Protein: Hair is made up of protein, so eating plenty is important. Iron-rich veg like spinach are especially important, as a lack of iron has been linked to hair loss. Vitamin A: This vitamin is important for healthy sebum production, so eat plenty of beta carotene rich veg like beets and carrots and your body will do the rest.

Hormones Changes in your hormone levels can affect your hair, causing it to become brittle. Serial Styler No matter your weapon of choice, heat styling is an attack on your hair. Products you might like. Wave Hello Conditioner. Wave Hello Shampoo. Wave Hello Curl Taming Cream. Hello Curls Primer.

To The Rescue Treatment Mask. Hey Curl Scrunching Jelly. Intensive Care leave-in Conditioner. To The Rescue Conditioner. To The Rescue Shampoo.