Are you experiencing hair breakage from highlights? If so, you're not alone. Many people who regularly get highlights or other chemical treatments on their hair may notice that their strands become weaker and more prone to breakage over time. However, the good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent and repair hair breakage caused by highlights. In this article, we will discuss some effective strategies to help keep your hair healthy and resilient.
1. Choose a Professional Stylist:
The foundation to preventing hair breakage from highlights starts with finding a competent and experienced stylist. A professional stylist will know how to properly apply highlights while minimizing damage to your hair. Take the time to do research and read reviews to ensure that you choose a stylist who has a good track record of maintaining the integrity of their clients' hair.
2. Opt for Balayage or Babylights:
If you're concerned about hair breakage, consider opting for a hair coloring technique that is less damaging than traditional highlights. Balayage and babylights are popular choices as they involve painting the color onto the hair with a more natural and subtle effect. These techniques are typically gentler on the hair and often result in less breakage compared to full foil highlights.
3. Use a Bonding Treatment:
Bonding treatments like Olaplex have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to repair and strengthen the hair structure. These treatments work by reconnecting the disulfide bonds in the hair that are broken during chemical processes, such as highlighting. Incorporating an Olaplex or similar bonding treatment into your hair care routine can help repair existing damage and prevent future breakage.
4. Avoid Excessive Heat Styling:
Excessive heat styling can further weaken hair that is already prone to breakage. When you have highlights, your hair may be more susceptible to heat damage due to the chemical process it has undergone. To prevent breakage, limit the use of hot tools such as straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers. When you do use heat styling tools, always apply a protective heat spray beforehand to lessen the potential damage.
5. Deep Condition Regularly:
Moisture is key to maintaining the health and strength of your hair. Highlighted hair tends to be drier and more damaged, so it's important to replenish moisture by using deep conditioning treatments regularly. Look for products that are specifically designed for color-treated or damaged hair. Consider incorporating a weekly deep conditioning mask into your routine to give your hair some extra hydration and nourishment.
6. Trim Regularly:
Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and lead to breakage, especially if your hair is already compromised from highlights. Regular trims every 8-12 weeks can help to prevent split ends from worsening and causing breakage. Talk to your stylist about your hair goals and opt for a haircut that removes any damaged ends while still maintaining the length you desire.
7. Incorporate Protective Hairstyles:
While highlighting your hair, it's essential to protect it from friction and tension that can lead to breakage. Consider opting for protective hairstyles like braids, buns, or low ponytails to keep your hair protected and minimize stress on the strands. Avoid hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair or use rubber bands or clips that can cause breakage and damage.
8. Use Sulfate-Free Shampoos:
Sulfates are harsh cleansing agents found in many shampoos that can strip the hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. When washing your highlighted hair, opt for sulfate-free shampoos that gently cleanse without stripping away essential moisture. Look for shampoos that are specifically formulated for color-treated hair and contain nourishing ingredients such as argan oil or keratin.
9. Protect Your Hair from the Sun:
Exposure to the sun's UV rays can cause hair color to fade and become more dry and brittle. To prevent breakage and maintain the vibrancy of your highlights, protect your hair from the sun by wearing a hat or using a UV-protective hair mist or spray. Additionally, you can invest in leave-in conditioners or serums with UV filters to provide additional protection against sun damage.
10. Eat a Healthy Diet:
Good hair health starts from within. Eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients essential for hair growth and strength can make a significant difference in your hair's overall health and resilience. Focus on consuming foods that are high in vitamins A, C, E, and biotin, as these are known to promote healthy hair. Additionally, make sure you're getting enough protein, as hair is primarily made up of protein.
In conclusion, hair breakage from highlights is a common concern, but by following these tips, you can prevent and repair the damage. Remember to choose a professional stylist, opt for less damaging techniques, incorporate bonding treatments, avoid excessive heat styling, deep condition regularly, trim your hair, use protective hairstyles, select sulfate-free shampoos, protect your hair from the sun, and maintain a healthy diet. By implementing these strategies, you can maintain the health and integrity of your hair while enjoying beautiful, highlighted locks.