Raise your hand if your hair could use a serious pick me up. I’m just going to assume there was a sufficient amount of you and proceed. If my hair could talk it would probably sound like an 80 year old woman that’s smoked a pack a day her entire life. So. Dry. She’s really raspy and in need of some serious moisture. I guess that’s what happens when you have near black hair that you insist on bleaching and dying bright colors. I’m definitely on the prowl for some killer products designed to give my hair the much needed boost of moisture and protection it needs so I’m going to highlight some amazing hair care treatments perfect for whatever hair issues you might have. Let’s go!

Before we get into the fun stuff, let’s talk a little about damaged hair in general (don’t hit the snooze button on me, it’ll be quick!). There are three types of hair bonds, hydrogen, ionic, and covalent all which give hair its characteristics (shape, elasticity and strength). Damaged hair happens because these bonds become broken. We can blame them for our split ends. Thanks broken hair bonds. The best products for damaged hair are bond repair products, all of which aim to repair the hair from root to tip.

I told you it would be fast, we just needed a little background before we dived in. For the most part, there are 3 different categories when it comes to “damaged” hair. Yes, it’s in air quotes because the first one isn’t necessarily due to damage, but could just be genetics. Sorry, my fragile hair people, but not to worry because we’ll give you some amazing products to help combat it.

Fragile, weak hair

If your hair is fragile and prone to breakage, you’re going to want to find good products meant to strengthen your weak hair (duh, we know). Products rich with proteins and vitamins meant to strengthen are the best options. Making sure your diet contains these same vitamins and added proteins is also a huge bonus. Ew, we’re talking about lifestyle changes now? Get out of here! Just a tiny plug, but I’m done now. Time for product recs!

R+CO BLEU De Luxe Reparative Masque

Hydrates, detangles, and seals frayed cuticles to help with split ends
Works best in tandem with their shampoo and conditioner

Damaged, over-processed (from hair dying, styling,etc.)

My old lady smoker hair comes out to play for this category. For those of us with dye damage, product damage, over-styling, etc., these are the solutions we are looking for. Damaged hair definitely benefits from getting a bond repair treatment because we know the damage is deeper than “my hair is just dry.” A solid product will have plenty of moisturizing capabilities, but will do more than just hydrate.

If you’ve bleached your hair at all in the last 10 years, there is a solid chance that your hairdresser has used or suggested an Olaplex product. Why? Because it’s just that good.

Olaplex No. 3

“Proven to relink broken disulfide bonds damaged by chemical services, heat, and styling.”
Reduces breakage and split ends

Dry, sun-damaged hair

Environmental factors can also contribute to damaged hair. For those of us in places with a lot of sunlight or pollution, our hair can become weakened and dry. And here I thought I only had to worry about my skin in the sun. Boo.

Masque Après Soleil Hair Mask