Types of hair damage
Heat damage — breaks disulphide bonds, causes the cuticle to lift permanently. Chemical damage — from bleaching, perming, relaxing. Breaks protein bonds deeply. Mechanical damage — from rough brushing, tight styles, towel rubbing. Most damaged hair has all three.
Bond repair — the most effective treatment
Bond repair treatments (Olaplex, K18, Redken Acidic Bonding) re-link broken disulphide bonds in the hair cortex. They do not permanently fix the damage but significantly improve strength, reduce breakage, and restore elasticity.
Olaplex No.3 is the OTC at-home version used weekly before shampooing. K18 Leave-In Molecular Repair Mask is applied after shampooing without rinsing. K18 tends to produce more dramatic immediate results; Olaplex requires more consistent use.
Protein vs moisture — getting the balance right
Damaged hair needs both. Too much protein makes hair stiff and brittle. Too much moisture makes it limp and gummy.
- If hair feels rough or straw-like — it needs moisture
- If hair feels limp or gummy when wet — it needs protein
- Alternate protein treatments and moisture masks rather than stacking them
Heat protection — non-negotiable going forward
Heat damage is irreversible in damaged strands but completely preventable in new growth. Use heat protectant on every section before any heat tool. Keep straighteners under 200C for damaged or fine hair.
The repair routine
Weekly: Bond repair treatment before shampooing. Every wash: Sulfate-free shampoo, deep conditioner left 5 minutes. 2x weekly: Protein mask alternated with moisture mask. Daily: Leave-in on damp hair, heat protectant before any heat. Every 6-8 weeks: Trim split ends.
Frequently asked questions
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