Hair that never seems to grow? Or thinning and weakening?
Curly hair, by nature already fragile and prone to dehydration, can easily become brittle, losing elasticity, shine and definition. When they have been subjected to chemical treatments such as bleaching and colouring, or to the heat of continuous flat ironing, they become particularly brittle.
This happens because the outer cuticular part is damaged. The individual hairs become thinner and more delicate, the ends particularly dry, and so one has the feeling that they never grow and that there is less and less of them! Precisely because they are so brittle, the ends tend to break even more easily.
So, is it possible to treat brittle curly hair? Yes, with the right care and attention, it is possible to restore the natural beauty of curly hair. Let’s see together how to care for damaged curly hair.
The first step in caring for damaged curly hair is to choose a mild shampoo specifically formulated to respect the structure and needs of curly hair. But why is this so important?
Curly hair tends to be naturally drier than other hair types because the scalp’s natural oils struggle to distribute themselves along the entire length of the hair, precisely because of its spiral conformation. In addition, overly aggressive shampoos can further deplete the hydrolipid film of curls, making them even more fragile and prone to breakage.
Gentle shampoos, on the other hand, are like a caress for the hair. They cleanse the scalp and hair without aggressively removing the natural oils needed to keep it moisturised and, above all, protected.
When it comes to caring for damaged curly hair, choosing the right products is crucial. But how to navigate your way through the many products available? Here are some key properties to look for in a gentle shampoo for curly hair.
Absence of aggressive chemicals
Products containing potentially damaging ingredients such as sulphates, parabens and silicones can dry out and further damage brittle curly hair. In fact, it is advisable to prefer formulas free of:
- Sulphates: aggressive detergents that can aggressively remove natural oils and dry out the hair.
- Parabens: these are preservatives that can irritate the scalp and sensitise the hair.
- Silicones: although silicones give an initial feeling of softness, in the long run they weigh down curls and make them more brittle.
Moisturising properties
Enriched with nourishing and moisturising ingredients, such as aloe vera and panthenol (precursor of Vitamin B5), they bring moisture and nourishment, and therefore also elasticity and softness, to curls.
In addition to favouring washing products that are gentle and contain moisturising ingredients, to care for damaged curly hair you can also choose additional products that provide specific benefits to hair looking for a boost of strength, protection and nourishment.
Emollient and protective properties
Natural oils, e.g. jojoba oil, carrot oil, coconut oil, have an emollient function. In addition, applying a few drops of oil to dry hair creates a protective film that locks in moisture inside the hair, thus preventing it from losing moisture and becoming brittle.
Strengthening action
Products containing protein, collagen and keratin, such as SuperCurly Booster, help to repair and strengthen damaged hair. In particular, keratin provides strength and elasticity, collagen replenishes the hair fibre and strengthens it, and in addition releases special proteins that create a protective film on the surface of the hair.
Protein reconstructor for curls damaged by chemical and physical treatments. Your hair will regain strength, volume and definition.
Strengthening and restructuring shampoo specially designed to deeply cleanse and restore bleached and damaged curly or wavy hair.
Purifying shampoo, eliminates build-up effect for cleaner, lighter curls.
In addition to using gentle products, there are other remedies that can help to treat brittle curly hair.
First and foremost, as we have already mentioned, oils for curly hair that can create a protective barrier that retains moisture. These can also be added to masks to enhance their moisturising effects.
However, hair care is not only about the products used, although these can make a huge difference, but also about general physical health. A balanced diet, rich in vitamins and minerals, and good hydration are essential to keep your hair healthy and strong.
It is also important to remember, especially in summer, to protect your hair from UV rays. The sun’s UV rays can in fact damage the hair, making it more fragile and brittle (not great if it is already damaged to begin with!). During sun exposure you can therefore use a satin scarf for curly hair or a protective oil with a sun filter such as Curl Elisir Sun Oil.
Having damaged hair may make you think that a drastic change (like a cut!) is necessary, but with the right care and attention, you can restore its natural beauty. And as we often say, remember that every curl is unique, just like everyone’s lifestyle. So don’t be afraid to experiment and find the products and care routines that best suit your specific needs. With a little patience and the right care, you will get to know your hair and always know what it needs to be shiny, strong, healthy and full-bodied!
A blend of fine oils to protect your curls from sun, chlorine and salt spray.
Soft satin scarf suitable for protecting hair from frizz, both day and night.
