Getting a Cut or Trim Can Help Restore Your Damaged Hair

Getting a short cut is the quickest way to restore damaged hair and give it a fresh, healthy start. But if you aren't ready for that, a trim every four to six weeks is the rule of thumb for short, styled hair, while longer hair can go six to eight weeks between trims. Here is the golden rule of haircutting: When you find a good cutter, stick with him or her! A faithful hairstylist will get familiar with the nuances of your unique hair type, and help determine how to keep it healthy.

   Color-treated Hair and Sulfates!

Your stylist is a genius. A squirt of this, a dollop of that, and--voilà! Your naturally mousy, ho-hum hair color is transformed into gorgeous, shiny, sunlit (or rich chestnut, or dazzling red) locks. And those greys? Gone, girl! Of course all of that color magic comes with a price So how do you make the most of that (worthwhile) haircolor investment? Choose sulfate-free shampoos, say the hair color pros at Matrix, and your color will stay gorgeous longer. 

   How to Stop Hair Breakage

Oh snap! Hopefully that means you’ve just let fly with a wickedly witty comeback. Unfortunately it could also be the sound of your hair breaking off mid-strand. Are you noticing more and more hair in the tub or your brush and less on your head? Are your locks frayed, fragile and prone to breakage? Here’s what causes hair breakage and how to prevent it.

   The culprit: Overheating

Thermal tools, used incorrectly, like blow dryers and irons can cause hair to become dry and brittle, which can lead to breakage.
Dial down the temperature. Embrace your natural texture from time to time and let your hair dry naturally. Use heat-protective formulas like Biolage Thermal Active Repair Cream. It helps protect against split-ends and breakage as it reinforces the hair fiber.

   The culprit: Tugs Of War

Vigorous towel drying, forcing a hairbrush through wet tangles and tight ponytails secured with uncoated rubber bands can all pull and tug at your hair until strands weaken and break. Instead of rubbing, gently blot wet hair with a soft towel. Condition immediately after shampooing and run a wide-tooth comb or “wet brush” through strands while you’re still in the shower to gently detangle. Take a ponytail break from time to time, and always secure hair with a coated elastic to prevent snagging.