Dry, brittle hair causes: Does your hair feel dry and prone to breakage or look dull and lifeless? You could be dealing with brittle hair, a common concern that can affect anyone. Excessive heat styling, skipping conditioner, or even weather changes can leave your hair stressed and in need of care. The good news is that you don’t always need costly treatments or salon visits to restore its strength and shine.
What is brittle hair?
Brittle hair is dry and fragile, and it breaks easily. It lacks moisture and strength, which makes it prone to split ends. You can think of it like a dry twig; it snaps instead of bending. You might notice a rough texture or dull appearance.
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Why does hair become brittle?
Frequent use of hair dryers, straighteners, or curling irons can strip your hair of its natural moisture, eventually causing dryness and breakage. Similarly, repeated colouring, bleaching, or perming weakens the hair shafts, making them more fragile.
Without hydrating products, dry hair can quickly become brittle. Winter and dry climates often exacerbate these effects, and frequent use of harsh shampoos can further damage the strands.
Beyond external factors, nutrition also plays a key role; hair requires protein, vitamins, and minerals to stay strong. Deficiencies in iron, biotin, or vitamin D can significantly affect hair health and growth.
How to treat and prevent brittle hair?
Avoid rough brushing, towel drying, or pulling your hair when it is fully wet. When hair is wet, it becomes fragile and is more likely to break. You can use a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush and pat dry with a soft towel or cotton T-shirt. Don’t rub.
Heat is one of the leading causes of hair damage. If you must use heat tools, protect your hair by using a heat protectant spray or let your hair air dry whenever possible.
Moisturising the hair keeps it soft and flexible. You can use a hydrating shampoo and conditioner. Try a deep conditioning treatment once a week. You can also use leave-in conditioners or hair oils on the ends.
Your hair reflects your overall health. If you are missing nutrients, your hair might suffer. So consider eating protein-rich foods like eggs and fish. Get enough iron and vitamin D. Also, stay hydrated.
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When should you see a doctor?
If brittle hair persists despite changes in routine, or if it’s accompanied by sudden hair loss, scalp irritation, or other symptoms, it could be linked to an underlying medical condition. In such cases, consult a doctor or dermatologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Brittle hair is more than a cosmetic concern. It’s often your body’s way of signalling that your hair needs better care. By limiting heat styling, using the right products, and maintaining a balanced diet, you can restore softness, shine, and strength.
