Over-processed hair can be quite a challenge to manage and even more so to restore. It is caused by too much heat and chemical treatments, such as excessive use of dyes, bleaches, perms and straightening processes. Regularly using too much heat on the hair, in particular above its recommended level, weakens the hair shafts making them more prone to breakage. The cuticles surrounding the hair also become damaged and this leads to further problems like reduced shine, dryness and frizziness.
Chemically processed hair is hair that has been subject to treatments involving strong or caustic chemicals. These chemicals can be used to achieve a range of different styles and looks, such as permanent color, highlights and relaxers. Unfortunately, over-processing the hair with chemical treatments can cause significant damage. It can weaken the hair shafts, resulting in easy breakage and split ends; it can also lead to dryness and frizziness due to increased porosity of the cuticles around the hair strands
In some cases, over-processed hair can be completely dead with no possibility of repair or recovery. However, with proper care it is possible to improve over-processed hair significantly. It is essential to use specially formulated products that are free from harsh ingredients such as sulfates and parabens as these can cause further damage. Deep conditioning treatments should also be used regularly in order to restore moisture levels as well as strengthen fragile strands.
In some cases, over-processed hair may already be beyond repair or have very limited recovery potential. In these cases, it may be necessary to resort to certain methods of masking damage such as opting for shorter styles which tend to be more forgiving when it comes to hiding weak, brittle locks or using various styling techniques that create movement and disguise broken ends. Additionally, there are a number of professional products available on the market specifically designed for chemically treated hair that helps restore moisture levels and improve its overall condition.
Heat protection sprays should also be used before using any heated styling tools in order to reduce the risk of further damage being done. Additionally regular trims are important for removing split ends which prevent the healthy growth of the hair. Although it may seem like a daunting task to repair over-processed hair, with patience and the correct practices in place it is possible for your hair to look healthy and beautiful once again!
Although it may seem like an arduous task, with patience and proper care it is possible for chemically processed hair to look healthy and beautiful once again! By following these simple steps you can reduce further damage while actively working towards restoring your hair back into their pre-processed state.
We have all struggled with chemically treated or over-processed hair at some point in our life. The truth is it causes irreversible damage to our mental health more than our physical hair as we value our crown more than anything else. At Myavana we understand the value placed on having healthy, beautiful hair and we’re here to help you. Don’t sit with the struggle on your own. If you have questions, we have answers. Feel free to send us an email at hello@myavana.com or download our app where you can speak directly with a healthy hair professional. Until next time curlfriends.