Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Shedding vs Breakage --Get The Facts

     Many times our hair goes through changes for many reasons. Weather, age, environment, stress, diet, medication, hereditary, products and sometimes just because that’s what hair does. The first key to combating these changes is to find out what is causing these issues and determining if your issue is shedding or breakage. If you find that nothing in your life has changed, then just assume it’s the natural shedding process that hair goes through. Whether we like it or not, hair sheds approximately 50-150 strands per day. However, breakage isn’t supposed to happen.

Houston, we have a problem.

     When your hair sheds it will come out at the full length of your hair. In other words, it’s coming out at the root. Anything shorter than your hair length is breakage. Overly dry hair and scalp is the #1 reason your hair will break. MOISTURE, MOISTURE, MOISTURE – I cant stress it enough because we all need it. You know what its like to feel thirsty, so imagine what your hair is feeling!

     In most cases breakage requires a haircut of some sort. Now exactly how much you will need to cut depends on how severe your damage is (seek a professional for consultation). In this instance you want to do moisture and/or protein treatments weekly or bi-weekly, to get your hair back in order. This can be done in the salon or go to your local beauty supply and pick up some conditioner for home. You should change your pillowcases to silk or satin, it helps in retaining moisture. Also drink plenty of water; add more protein and veggies to your diet and most of all, BE PATIENT!

     I know, I know…easier said than done. But hair grows at its own pace, regardless of what ad you see on TV or in the back of your favorite magazine. (We’ll touch on this in the future). Breakage is never a happy time; we’ve all been there. But one good thing that can come from this is a new hair-do! Possible styles depend on the location of your problem. For example, if you have breakage at the nape of your neck, then a cute bob style may come out of this. An all over super short cut isn’t always required just because you have breakage; this is where a consultation comes in. And if you are a bit hesitant about what that stylist is telling you, feel free to seek another professional. Consultations are generally free anywhere you go. Remember: The true definition of good hair is HEALTHY hair!



**Great products to try**
Please note: Some products may be available for purchase in salon only


 
Nioxin Deep Repair Hair Mask
Essations Moisture Sheen Conditioner
ApHogee Keratin 2-Minute Reconstructor 



      

2 comments:

  1. that's so helpful. moisture moisture moisture: we hear that so often. how do i know when my my hair needs moisture and when it needs protein?

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  2. Quiana - Protein is usually needed when your hair is in a weakened state, especially after chemical services. Just like your skin, your hair will feel and look dry. Thats a clear cut way to know that moisture is needed. There are times when both is needed but at one time but that is usually a severe case of damage and breakage. If it seems you are lacking luster to your locks, start with a treatment of a deep moisturizing conditioner or hot oil treatment. Cover with a plastic cap and sit under dryer for 15 mins. More time may be necessary in extreme cases. If you have no dryer, just sit with the cap on for double the time and your body heat will help activate. Good luck! :)

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