Top 10 Split End Busters
One of our fave forums for hair facts is The Long Hair Forum. If you want to grow your hair longer, it is THE site to see. They have a great list of tips that we’re sharing with you in today’s post. Click here to read their orginal list: “Keeping Splits At Bay: Secrets of Gently Handling Your Hair”
1) Move Your Mane
If your hair is long enough to get caught under coat collars or under shoulder straps (for Messenger bags, back pack, etc) then be sure to move your hair before putting on that bag.
2) Keep Air off Your Hair
Does your hair whip in the wind? Wind knots up hair. Knots damage length. Damaged length causes more splits. Eventually the damaged length splits. Restrain your hair when you are going to be in a lot of wind.
3) Wash Warily
Only apply shampoo to roots where it needs it. Avoid washing the dried out ends.
4) Be Picky About Piling Hair On Top
Do you pile your hair on top of your head when you shampoo? This creates MANY opportunities for splits. Shampoo really only needs to be applied to your roots. That’s where the grease/oil is. Personally, I condition the length of my hair, apply shampoo to my scalp (down to ears), rinse, then apply conditioner again, rinse. This is called CWC (Condition Wash Condition). All the while, the length of my hair just hangs down my back.
5) Towel Drying is Treacherous
When you dry your hair, do you scrub your scalp with a towel? It feels great, but it will rip, strip, pop, snap and fry your hair in no time! Many of us use some sort of a turbie type towel/turban for drying our hair. Others put a towel on their back and let the hair drip onto the towel.
6) Blow Off Blow Drying
Do you blow dry your hair? The heat and the wind created by the blowfryer (no that isn’t a typo) really damages hair, too. Any heat styling tool can potentially damage hair. If you feel you must use them, keep the temperature low and exposure time to your hair short.
7) Subdue Your Shampoo
How often do you shampoo? Regardless of HOW you shampoo, how OFTEN do you do it? Many of us have found that 2-3 shampooings per week is sufficient. It takes a few weeks to train your scalp to have fewer washings, but it helps protect the ends. Not everyone has success with fewer shampooings, though.
Condition, condition, condition
Do you use conditioner or a cream rinse when you shampoo? My personal belief is, if you want long hair you need to condition it EVERY time you shampoo. If nothing else, it helps detangle my hair. You also might consider using a leave in conditioner, especially one that helps detangle (and gives slip).
9) Oil Often
You can oil the length of your hair daily. Many long hairs do this. They put a small drop in the palm of their hand, rub their hands together and lightly apply the oil to the ends only of the hair. There is an abundance of oils that you can use, some are quite exotic. Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is probably the most common, but there is a long list of oils everyone has tried and ones that each person likes/doesn`t like.
10) Consider Combing Cautiously
After you’ve shampooed, when/how do you brush/comb your hair? Generally, brushing wet hair is bad for the hair. Hair is most delicate when wet. Brushing tends to stretch the strands. Stretching the strands puts wear and tear, which causes damage, which causes splits.
Ashleigh Says:
i like these tips, thank you,,,
Robin Says:
You only listed olive oil as one of the oils to use. Name a few others so I can choose the best for me. Thank-you
A Says:
the ONLY time i brush my hair is when its soaking wet after the shower.. no splits for me and never have had ‘em!
carly Says:
I could never consider not washing my every day, tho I know a lot of people don’t. But if you work out etc. you’ve got no choice. I also have long, THICK hair, and if I don’t use a blow dryer, (on high or it takes far too long, especially on a busy, tight scheduled morning) it would still be wet 2 days later. I use Lazartigue products and have NO problem with dry or split ends. The Moisturizing Conditioner or the Vitacream wih Milk Protiens are phenomenal!
Ann Hammond Says:
I am 73. A recent bout of allergy testing resulted in a decided stoppage of hair growth on the side of my body where two injections were given to confirm allergies to dust and cats. Now hair is a slight bit better after 6 months. I wash three times a week using baby shampoo after swimming for exercise in a salt water indoor pool. salt less than in eye tears. I condtion but am sensitive to shampoos and to conditioners. I towel dry but do not use a blower, let it air dry beyond that; towel. Think hair will improve, hope so. I also put baby oil in hair before swimming.
My maernal grandmother had hair long enough to sit on, wore it on top of her head, brushed it 100 strokes morning and night.
TERESA Says:
THANK YOU FOR THE TIPS…MY HAIR IS VERY LONG AND I COLOR IT…I HAVE ALTERNATED BETWEEN INEXPENSIVE STORE AND EXPENSIVE SALON PRODUCTS…WHEN I USE “PANTENE” PRODUCTS MY HAIR IS VERY SILKY AND TAME BUT WHEN I USE PAUL MITCHELL OR BIOLAGE FROM SALONS MY HAIR (OVER TIME) BECOMES FRIZZY AND RATTY…ALL THE HAIRDRESSERS SAY THAT “PANTENE” WILL RUIN YOUR HAIR AND MAKE IT FALL OUT…IS THIS TRUE??? MY HAIR DOES FALL OUT A LOT BUT IT DID THIS PRIOR TO USING “PANTENE”…I HAVE OFTEN HEARD THAT STRESS WILL CAUSE YOUR HAIR TO FALL OUT AS WELL SO I AM THINKING THAT IS THE PROBLEM…I ALSO WASH AND CONDITION MY HAIR IN THE SINK AND PUT A PLASTIC SHOWER CAP ON MY HEAD FOR ABOUT 20 MINUTES OR WHILE I SHOWER (THE LONGER THE BETTER)…I ALSO WASH MY HAIR IN WARM/HOT WATER TO OPEN THE FOLICLES AND RINSE IN COLD WATER TO CLOSE THE FOLICLES AND ADD SHINE…I DON’T WASH IT EVERYDAY BECAUSE ALL THE CHEMICALS IN THE WATER DRIES MY HAIR OUT…A ” ROUND” BRUSH WHEN BLOW DRYING MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE!!! I DO AGREE THAT NO BLOW DRYING IS BEST WHEN POSSIBLE.
Su Says:
I am native american ,62 and have long long silver hair . I do not understand why the hair care industry does not make products for silver hair,except the purple stuff that only makes it shine more. I would seek products that address the courseness and wirey effects of hair breakage .Mostly on the broken part line on top of scalp.
I am so bothered by the short corkscrew fuzz ,and except hair spray to plaster it to my scalp,I can find no products to make it softer.
Mary Says:
i also only “comb” my waist long hair while its wet altho i dont use a comb nor brush,i have a good sturdy plastic pick that i’ve had for years. its alot gentler on my strands than a comb,and definately more than a brush. after washing i put oil,i use one designed to calm frizzies on the ends then pick out,one side at a time. i rarely have split ends when i get it trimmed,once every other month.
Betty Says:
My teenage daughter has long hair and mine is just starting to touch my shoulders. I’ve been trying to grow my hair again since forever. After reading this I know it works! my daughter does everything on here that you have suggested without ever reading this article! She’ll take a shower and just leave the towel on her sholders to air dry. She washes it every 2 days. She has the best hair which is why I wanted long hair again! I use a curling iron, flat iron for my ends, and blow dry my hair everyday. I feeel I have to wash my hair everyday because I just don’t feel clean if I don’t. But I’ll try skipping to everyother day. What I find that does work is the hair shine on the ends of my hair and the right shampoo. I haven’t found the right conditioner yet. I do like the ones they put in the hair coloring boxes, those seem to work best on my hair.
Heather Says:
I have waist length hair and use an iron on it…I have since I was about 13….I’m 24 now. I mean an actual iron…the same one I use on my clothes. I wish I had a nickel for every compliment I’ve gotten on my hair…i would be rich!
Joy Says:
My new growth hair gets dampened whenever I sweat and corkscrews up into a frizzy look. Sometimes looks like little horns at my temples. Is it o.k. to oil new hairs down or should I use something else? P.S. I hate hairspray.
BB Says:
To Robin, on light hair try grape seed oil found in whoe food stores, for dark hair try walnut oil.
These are also great for healthy cooking.
Angelina Says:
People from India have long luxurious healthy hair. It is because they use oil which is a healthy food for the hair. You can get oils like Amla Herbal Oil, Conocut Oil, Dabur Jasmine Hair Oil, etc. You can get them at Indian stores or Ebay or anywhere online.
Karen Says:
I work in a factory, so my hair picks up a lot of dust and chemical smells. Washing daily is a must, but I have been washing it in the way you describe, then conditioning, for ages, and this works well. Also, before using a pick on my wet hair, I use my fingers for any needed detangling. I like Pantene shampoo and conditioner best, even better than some expensive salon brands I’ve tried. I’ve been growing my hair, to donate to Locks of Love (they have a site, look at it), and I need 10″. I’ve had my hair like Elisabeth Rohm’s, which my hairdresser first suggested to me, when I started growing it out. I love this cut-you can do so much with it! Now, I have a month or so, to figure out what kind of short cut I want to go with…but I love this long hair so, I may grow it out again, and donate it once more!
Nancy Says:
Hi all, I’m 55, and have had very long hair for most of my life (I trimmed it yesterday to just below my waist). My hair is thick, dry & naturally wavy/curly, so I condition/shampoo roots/ condition again, once a week. I use a pick then comb in the shower while my hair is coated with conditioner and let the water help to de-tangle before wrapping a towel around it to absorb excess water while I dry off and get dressed. Then I give it another light coat of conditioner & let it air dry with a towel around my shoulders and back. Rarely blow dry, but when I do, I turn my head upside down using a diffuser to lightly blow dry the scalp/roots of my hair. I try to plan my shampoo for a time when I don’t have to be anywhere, like a sunny Saturday or Sunday afternoon, so I can sit outside with a cup of tea and a magazine while it dries. Sometimes I let it curl up naturally, or sometimes use steam curlers, moisturizing the ends before putting each steam curler in. When the curlers cool off a bit, my hair is shiny, silky, curly & very manageable. I’ve tried alot of conditioners, but I now switch off between Back to Basics Coconut Mango Shampoo & Conditioner (great for de-tangling long curly/wavy hair & smells so yummy!) or Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Daily Shampoo, Conditioning Treatment & Serum. If my hair is feeling dry, I rub a little Super Skinny treatment or a few drops of the Serum into the ends and brush it. Both products are available at the Beauty Supply stores. Try it, you will love this stuff! I love to swim, so I apply conditioner & put my hair in a bun on top of my head to keep it away from the chlorine & chemicals. I also believe that diet is so important if you want great looking, healthy hair. Eat a variety of fruits, nuts, grains & veggies, drink lots of water, and make sure you are getting all the vitamins that your hair & skin needs. Also, stay away from sodas, especially diet drinks, margarine & fast food. That stuff is like poison. You are what you eat, and your hair & skin will show it.
Laura Says:
Loved the tips!!
I’ve had long hair all my life, and as I’ve entered middle age, it has become naturally curly. I mostly use Ion products for curly hair, but Beyond the Zone’s “Noodle Head” is the absolute BEST I’ve found for achieving a lovely long cork-screw head of curls. I also oil my hair daily, after blow-drying with a diffuser (on low, low heat) with a few squirts of Ion’s Heat Protection mist. That one’s actually meant for use with a flat iron, but I’ve found it it makes a great hair oil, adding moisture and shine to curls.
I never brush my hair, only comb it once, while wet with a huge wide tooth comb, then scrunch my hair while blow drying with my fingers.
Hope this helps other “mop-tops!”
Laura Says:
I ony brush my hair with conditioner in it then put Indian Hemp oil in my hair and allow to air dry. I have no split ends and my hair gets the maximum curl with no frizz.
Mieaka Says:
I know that hair is hair, but do these suggestions work on all hair types, including African American hair. I have just shy of medium length hair with no split ends. I use a hair polish daily, and wash once a week. Will this make my hair grow long and healthy as well.
Lynnie Says:
I have hair down to my hips, and it took me a long time to get it down to there. With exception of the daily oiling, which sounds like a good idea, I do ALL of the things they recommend. I have very few split ends. I think I’ll try the oil…
Amy Says:
The best advice I can give anyone with long~thick hair (like mine) is to use the BEST conditioner in the world called Sleek! It is a “salon only” product made by Matrix. It is worth every penny!!!!!!!!!! Matrix if your reading this ~ please never discontinue your Sleek line of products or do the infamous “new and improved” ~ it’s perfect the way it is!
Teri Says:
I have shoulder-length hair that I am growing out after many years of having it short and coloring it blonde. I am naturally a brunette. Its brunette now, thanks to coloring it (I do it at home) but I am now “going gray” so I found that as soon as I had gray showing at my roots I would color it. It got to where I was coloring it every 3 weeks. Finally a stylist, who I trust, told me the only shampoo I should use on my hair is Suave. He said when I color it and wash it w/ Pantene (which is what I was using) I am washing all the color I put on, off. He said its VERY high in detergent, and said the 2nd worst shampoo to use is Pert. He said thats also high in detergent. He said to color the roots w/ semi-permanent color, do only the roots, and wash my hair as least as possible. Now I only wash it every 3rd or 4th day. It was hard to get used to not washing it everyday. After 3 months of using his advice, my hair is growing very fast and is very soft and have no split ends. I also take pre-natal vitamins everyday, it makes your nails and hair grow faster. I am getting more than 1/4 inch of new hair growth every month so I know it’s working.
vanessa Says:
i loved the tips
i have been trying to grow my hair long for ages, its super curly and thick,
i am someone who reinvents myself weekly so how can i use a gd flat iron without getting split ends?. keep in mind i do just about everything said. thanks
Lemmon Says:
I’m 52 and have had long hair for decades (now long enough to sit on). I bleach it slightly w/ Sun-In and wash it almost daily with whatever’s on sale at Safeway. It gets/stays long because I wear it up almost every day - not just when it’s windy! Ever see a flag somewhere that’s never taken down - like at a car dealership? See how the ends are tattered and frayed? That’s what happens to longer hair when it’s left down all the time. It rubs on your clothes, dries out and splits; it tatters in the breeze; it tangles and then has to be put through the stress of brushing the tangles out, etc. Put it up during the day and take it down for evening social events. I comb mine when wet ONLY w/ a detangling comb, and blow it dry only if it’s freezing cold or hot and humid outside. (Twist it up when slightly damp and when you take it down dry, you’ll have a nice soft wave - very sexy!)
Smartie Says:
There is a fantastic hair oil called Kikui Nut Oil that Trilogy Spa here in Los Angeles puts out. This has helped my hair tremendously,as it it curly so dry all the time. I am trying to grow out longer and get a lot of compliments on the length I have, but feel COLORING my hair (I am going grey about 25%) is absolutely RUINING it. The hair itself is thinner, like the color thins out the hair shaft! Does this occur for anyone else,or is my hair just super delicate?
olivia Says:
I have blond, fine, below the shoulder length hair. If I condition my hair after every shampoo it looks flat and limp. Any suggestions for conditioners that are ultra light for fine, straight as a stick hair? Thanks
Colleen Says:
I love Avon’s Shampoo & Conditioner….Smooth and Sleek is the best. After washing and conditioning, I leave my hair in a towel for about 5 minutes. Then I take a small amount of conditioner and put it on my ends. I have blonde hair, and have trouble finding conditioners that work without weighing or darkening my hair. Avon’s are the best I’ve found, and they’re very affordable. I even use them on my Yorkie’s hair, which leaves her soft and silky longer than other products.
nimra tariq Says:
i wash, shampoo, and condition my hair everyday…blow dry it everyday…and straighten it everyday with a chi iron…sometimes even twice a day….and my hair is perfectly beautiful and healthy. how can someone go without washing their hair for 2-3 days at a time??? im not sure if i would follow these tips, sounds dirty to me.
Jean Says:
Great to hear from other smart ladies who have long hair and don’t mind the extra time it takes to care for it. To the native american lady-I’d watch the pressure of the shower on the top of your head. The new Pantene Products are really great. My long fine delicate color treated hair was almost hopelessly ruined from 1 dip in an over chlorininated swimming pool and 2 weeks of the ocean. Of course my hair didn’t fall out! It went from straw to hair again in about 3 weeks. I don’t brush my hair if it’s dry. I condition it first. I also do the condition, wash, condition only the length as if I had a ponytai. I swear by Amplify Shampoo for thickness. Otherwise, I’m screwed!
Annette Says:
I have had long straight Blonde hair most of my life ( almost 40) and always get compliments. I wash and condition every day with Suave. I comb my hair after the shower, but always start at the ends and work my way to the top it really helps untangle without breaking. I also use silk filler or silk infusion from Farouk systems and people say my hair is the softest they have felt. I only blow dry when it it cold outside.
Jen Says:
To Karen,
Don’t donate your hair to locks of love. It’s a scam. Google it and you will be amazed at what you read.
Valerie Says:
I always tell people “it’s a mutant family gene” (hahaha) because of all the people who gasp at my hair length, and now, my daughters. My son also has the ‘gene’, lol and my grandmothers hair was wrapped around her ankles when she was buried. My Mom and both sisters have the ‘gene’ as well. So, yeah, it’s past my knees and thick and strong and shiny. Don’t hate me. I switch shampoos all the time, I must have 30 bottles in there now, I use expensive salon brands, and I also love an occasional PRELL shampoo, AND PERT! I usually use Paul Mitchells THE CONDITIONER, but I rinse it out rather than leave in, and I also use KERISILK conditioner, from salons, which is my little secret. I never brush or comb wet. I wash at night, and wrap it up for a few minutes and then let it air dry. I wash about every other day, never the lengh part, I don’t even own a blower. I use a regular nylon bristle brush, I HATE the ones with little balls on the tips of the bristles, I have 2 children and cut off 3 feet of hair while pregnant with each one, but it keeps coming back, so I give up. When people ask my secrets, it’s a lot easier to say “Chocolate, I eat lots of chocolate”. So thats what I say.
heather Says:
I’m 25 and have had long hair most of my life.My hair grows very quickly I had my last full hair cut about 1 1/2 years ago just above shouldar length and it is now to the middle of my back once again.While I only wash it every few days as opposed to everyday because it is dry,I color ,I do brush my hair when it is dry not wet. As for the shampoo and conditioner I use I swear by Alberto VO5’s nourishing oasis line its leaves my hair feeling clean and shiny and the conditioner leaves my hair feeling healthy but not weighed down and greasy..Best of all it’s under $2.00 a bottle at any store.I get it at Wal-mart and all of it smells fantastic..My problem is that in the wintertime my hair gets a lot of static all the time.Any suggestions on how to control the static would be very helpful.Yes, I do have split ends but that’s because I shampoo my whole head and probably because I also towel dry it..I think the oil thing is a good idea and may help with this issue so I will give it a try.
Amber Says:
to Valerie- I dont hate you for having hair to your knees… trust me when I say most people don’t, but it would be something to see. For older women ( I am 23 and I will include myself in this group) hair longer than the middle of the back is really not becomming. I would rather have long but not obnoxiously long, thick, attractive, healthy hair anyday.
Janice Says:
i agree with Su when she discusses the lack of products for those of us with long gray/silver hair. the only product out there is the “blue” shampoo. thus we earn the names of “blue hairs”. i just love the shampoo, the way it makes my hair feel and smell, but ain’t to fond of the purple hair,. i will be trying the oil on the ends only for a while to see if it helps the splits. i tried an oil that was designed for, ready for this…dogs. i found a similar oil at a salon shop that smelled the same and did the same for my hair. it does have a blue tint to it but makes the silver so shiny.
Rebecca Says:
I have thin blonde hair that is more than half way down my back. It has taken me 5 years to get it this long, but the longer it gets the frizzier and curlier it gets. I work early in the morning in a freezer at a grocery store and have to have it dry. I do not like washing the night before because then it gets really curly. What can I use to get rid of the curl and friz without blowdrying it?
Lynda Says:
Thanks for the tips, I do all of them. I have ben growing my hair for yrs and it is to my waist. I had a BAD spiral perm a yr and a half ago so I called a friend of mine that lives out of state and asked her what to do about my hair that I could not even get a pick through. SHe told me to get the best oil that I have found is Silk Therapy from Bio Silk. I just love it so much.
Hope this helps anyone that migt need it. And I stilll use it now every day.
nita Says:
i am 45 . i get my hair colored from a salon i am sikh by relegion i cannot cut my hair, my hair falls by a million . help
Iris Says:
Hi all…Great tips & comments- thanks so much!
Well…I just turned 32…my hair has fallen out so bad…i now had to put in extensions…in a matter of 2 months my beautiful dark hair went from middle of teh back length to just about 2 inches long…IT ALL FELL OUT. i’ve cried everyday for just about 2 months. I’m now taking so many vitamins: B, B12, BIOTIN, OMEGA 3, E, you name it…i’m taking it. I work out, i’m healthy, I dont eat fast food AT ALL…i think that’s disgusting. i just cant figure out what happened to my hair. I had super strong shiny brunette locks, that would do whatever i wanted…now i’m almost bald! I took some notes on all of the recommendations, so thanks. I condition my hair & do pretty much all of the above, including combing with a wide tooth comb & not brushing …i hardly ever brush. I wont even let my husband touch my hair, i’m so ashamed. Any one else out there whose had this problem…any advice?
Jess Says:
I just wanted to see what everyone thought about people with very oily hair. There is no way I could put ANY sort of oil in my hair. My hair is a couple inches above my waist and naturally curly. I do have split ends - but trust me, oil is not the answer for me. What else could I do? I try to do my best to detangle in the shower, and I only condition from the ends down. If I even use conditioner on the scalp, my hair looks very greasy by the end of the day. I can barely blow-dry and straighten my hair because be the end it already looks greasy. I will try to stop towel-drying and try the other recommendations here, but what is a lightweight moisturizer good for oily, curly hair?
Deb Says:
Hi Iris,
Get to a dermatologist asap and start there. I have long hair, but I also have psorasis. What a pain. Go see a skin doc! Good luck!
Nicole Says:
I have fantastic results with tiare oil or extra-virgin coconut oil from http://www.darkswan.com. Just put the tiniest sliver, about the size of a grain of rice onto your palm. The warmth of your skin will melt it. Rub your palms together and then press the hair gently between your palms and slide down. Do this a couple of times, and the oil’s distributed without being concentrated in one place.
Also great is doing a before-shampoo treatment. I’m lazy, and being in a wheelchair, not so good at dealing with hot water for hot oil treatments. I can warm a dollop of coconut oil (I keep mine in the freezer, use about the size of a peach pit) in the microwave for ten or so seconds–just enough to melt it and get it warm. Then daub it on a wide-toothed comb and comb it through, starting with the ends. A shower cap over that, and I read for a while while it does it’s thing.
P.S. The monoi de tiare oil smells fantastic, it’s coconut oil in which tiare (Hawaiian gardenia) flowers have been infused.
Evelyn Says:
Iris, have you noticed that your skin has suddenly become dry and your nails have suddenly started breaking too? The sudden onset could be (Hypo)Thyroid problems, you might want to have your Thyroid hormone levels checked. I have intermittant problems, especially during times of stress my Thyroid malfunctions and I start to lose hair, get dry skin & get nail breakage. There is an herb called “Guggul” that can be quite helpful with hairgrowth - especially when your problems are Thyroid related.
As for Amber, you are entitled to your opinion. I have found quite a few people actually share it and actually are quite nasty about voicing their opinions (so thanks for your kinder, gentler approach anyway), though I must say I totally don’t understand. What does the length of your hair have to do with age? I have seen many strikingly beautiful older women with long hair. I think it’s a free country and you should do what makes you happy. My hair does not cooperate at all when short so you won’t be seeing me cut it any time soon.
Valerie Says:
Amber, I said that my hair was strong and shiny, so it is indeed healthy, no splits, and to make the statement that hair past the middle of the back on ‘older women’ is not becomming, well, it took some kahunas. haha. It is not something you or anyone else can decide unilaterally for all women. It’s a case by case thing, and my family looks HOT!
If I looked icky, I would chop it all off. It would grow back in a year and a half. And trust ME, I’d be richer than I am now, 
If I had a PENNY for every one who said “I’m so jealeous, mine won’t grow”, or “my husband LOVES long hair”, etc. So keep yours to the middle of your back, and my thick, strong, shiny, natural blonde hair will continue to grow. lol
andrea Says:
Hi Iris, i know how you feel. Its very depressing and confusing. Im 38 years old, last year i colored my hair for the first time and within 2 weeks i noticed some thinning, i was horrified! I have always had thin hair but i had alot of it. it was long well the middle of my back and all one length. I always liked my hair then that one day i noticed the thinning and it has just gotten worse. i have went to a derm and my regular doc, gyno, endo i had blood test after blood test and i had a scalp biopsy, all of it showed nothing. I now have started rogaine about 5 months ago and i dont see a difference yet but im still hoping. I miss my hair and i wish i just had some answer to all this and why it started so suddenly. My friends tell me it must have started a long time ago, but i absolutely know thats not true. I swear i new the day it started because my scalp started hurting, not the surface scalp but inside it was very strange i never had anything kind of infection or anything on it. but where every it hurted that is where it thinned, i dont understand it. the pain has calmed down now but the thinning is still there
. Im going to keep trying to fix this, ill post if i come up with anything,
soon2bMD Says:
IRIS–If your hair has just “fallen out” this is not normal, you need to go see a physician immeadiately. You could have a disorder, or hair loss can be a symptom of a greater issue. I don’t mean to scare you but, please go to a doctor and get this checked out. There are medications out there that will help you regrow your hair, or if something is wrong in diet/health/medications-herbs that you are taking, it can be corrected, and your hair may return to normal.
KA Says:
I’ve found that I simply cannot go one day without wetting my hair while showering. What I’ve decided to do (mostly to save money) is that I shampoo three times a week and I condition the rest of the time. My hair is extremely thick, course, curly and long, so conditioner is a must everyday elsewise I look like the bride of frankenstein.
However, I thank you for the tips. And for what it’s worth, I’ve never had split ends, nor unhealthy hair and I do almost all of the don’t’s that you mention. So I guess it really depends on the head of hair, and perhaps the shampoos and conditioners one is using.
MaryK Says:
To the ladies who suffer from hair falling out: Try melaleuca (tea tree oil) shampoo and conditioner by Jason. Hair falling out may be caused by a fungal infection that isn’t otherwise apparent by any symptoms.
Heather Says:
To Iris, look up alopecia. It is a condition where your hair falls out for no apparent reason. there is a lot of info out there right now and many support groups.
Iris Says:
Hi everyone…thanks so much for all of your positive feedback…I just made an appt w/ a Dermatologist…so we’ll see what happens…I have lots of research to do now since everyone was so nice to suggest what works for them. This is very depressing indeed & it’s all i think about, even in my sleep. LOL! My hair has fallen out gradually over 2 months, but still 2 months is pretty fast to lose that much hair. My skin has always been good to me…never any issues…still good, and my nails are teh same…no noticeable/drastic changes.
There is a history of thyroid problems in my family, don’t know which one though. My mom & sis have beautiful long thick hair…as did both of my grandma’s til their very last day. i really appreciate all of your feedback…please keep them coming…thanks so much.
Cindy Says:
Hi Iris, I had this problem years ago, my hair fell out by and I would find lots of it in the shower drain and the bed in the morning. Went to the Dr and found it is a typical sign for an underactive thyroid. Others signs are being cold, and weight gain. This can be determined by a simple blood test. It is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in the country and it can have a lot of effect on your hormones, etc. Now I take one small tab day and it solved the problem. Have it checked out and save your hair.
Iris Says:
Hi again—so do i need to go to my reg doctor for a thyroid check?…or can my derm doc do that?
thanks again!
LONGHair Says:
I have knee length hair and I have done most of the things listed. I wash my hair every couple of days and let it air dry. But since I have chronic ear problems I am unable to get water in my ear and must wash it in the sink..I don’t typically brush or comb it, unless it starts to knot up. But when I do I use a large vent bruch with bristles that are far apart and only until it tangle free and only when it’s dry. We are currently stationed in Hawaii so my hair is pulled up in the horrible hair splitting contraptions also known as hair clips. Most people don’t even realize my hair is as long as it is since it’s never down (except to slept and then it’s in a hair band). Conditioner is great for those who have very little oil in their hair, but when it’s naturally oily it just makes the problem worse. I’m not sure who makes this product but it’s available in most wal-marts and it’s an oil neutralizer that you put into the conditioner and it does work wonders. It makes the oils in the conditioner less powerful without taking away the detangling effects of the product. I’d still be using it IF it were sold here.
Angela Says:
I moved recently to a home with well water. Since then my hair has become very dry due to the mineral content in the water. My hairdresser suggested putting conditioner on my ends before I go to bed. By morning my hair has soaked it up. Ive seen a big improvement in dryness since I started this!
Boz Says:
I see most people asking for help and they say if their hair is curley, or frizzy, but they’re not stating if it’s fine, limp, coarse etc. That really makes a difference in what products people are suggesting.
I’ve alot of hair, down to my butt, it’s baby fine and limp. If I were to use oil on it, it would probably track back to my scalp over the course of a day. I do use olive oil on my salads and and take vit E and fish oil, or flax seed oil pills. I believe that helps from the inside out for supplying oils to that get distributed to skin and scalp.
Short or long it seems to hang limp and stringy and flat to my head. Long is just easier for me to care for. I never apply shampoo directly to my scalp, I rub between my palm first, then apply to the surface of the hair on my head and work into the wet hair that way. Applied directly to the scalp may make the hair lay even flatter to the scalp. I never wash the ends and always condition the ends only. I put it on and rinse about 10 to 30 seconds later. During that ‘fly-away’ season, as I’m first starting the rinse, I take the ends and quickly slide them once from forehead back down to where the conditioner was applied and continue rinsing. Anything more and it’s conditioner overkill for me. I use one of those wide toothed brushes with the little balls on the ends and usually don’t have split ends and brush when it’s wet (It’s rare that I ever have any tangles) I wrap it up in a towel, turbin style, then just let the towel soak up most of the moisture. Dries by itself in 10 min on a warm day, 1/2 hour on cold days. When younger, I used to have so much oil that I would wash once, or twice a day. Now, I wash every 2-3 days, unless I have a date, then I wash it before going out.
A satin pillowcase helps to avoid tangles during the night, hair just slides over it. Since my hair is so long, I use satin sheets too. That’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it LOL. Don’t wear satin night clothing though, or you’ll be slipping right out of bed and don’t be confused by those nylon stretch sheets that they sell as satin.
I bought the wrong type of shampoo for my hair this last time and now I’m in desperate need of a trim. The last product I used (was a pantene product) they’ve relabled and put in a new bottle, so I’m lost till I find a new one. I’m 55 natural brunette and have a few grey hairs, but not enough to color yet and I’m not interested in anything that’s gonna make them show up more LOL. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Erin Says:
i have long, thick, coarse hair, well past the middle of my back, waist and hips. It gets costly to wash and conditon hair this long and thick, plus keeping it managable. Heres my little secret…I buy a cheaper shampoo such as suave, sells for 1.46$ at my walmart for a family sized bottle of 32 oz. Then i spend a little more on conditionar, like tresemme colour revitalize with vitamin E and aleo sell for almost 5$ for a 32 oz botle. I alternate every few weeks between brands as my hair gets accustumed to the ph levels in the shampoo and conditionar. i go through a bottle of each every other week, but for under 7$ every two week i have nice, soft, managable hair. will this work for everyone, no im sure it wont. i HAD naturally greasy roots and dry ends,but not so much anyone. when it comes to washing i do it every other day. i stay clear from hairspray and gel, i let it air dry and wait the 4-5 hours before brushing, when im dressed to impress ill use got2B frizzie oil on my hair from the middle to the ends which is very inexpensive, since a dime size drop will go a long way. i believe i paid almost 8$ for a 2 or 3 oz bottle, but ive had it over a year now. my other piece of adivce is to get rid of the hair ties (skruncis) they cause breakage from being taken out. hair gets tangled around them and when you take them out theres hair on them each time. Try to use clips, i went from skruncis to clips and in a month the results was very impressive. the longer the hair the bigger the clip needed but they can be picked up at dollar stores for a dollar for 2. just a few loose twists and its off my neck, out of reach of my little one and a nice little flow of hair around the clip, taking it out take a simple pinch of the clip and it comes down untangled. Yes nice hair can be nice and atractive, but i think people who have long hair and its baby thin at the ends is not so nice looking as having thick hair from root to end.
Cindy Says:
Hi Iris, your regular doctor can do this. Its a very easy, cheap test. I would guess a dermatologist can too although the ones I’ve seen stick to skin conditions and may refer you to your reg doctor. My sister had all kinds of health problems and after years of dr’s one finally did a thyroid test and she was underactive as well and it solved a lot of her problems too,. My husbad has an an underactive thyroid and so does his mother, so it does seem to run in families. There is also a test you can do at home using a thermometer under the arm in the morning. I have read about it but never used it as I prefer the blood test but I am sure you can find about in on the internet. My doctor says everyone should have a thyroid test at some point as we don’t get enough iodine in our food any more and it can create all kinds of health problems as it effects hormones, metabolism, energy, hair growth etc. I lost a lot of hair before I got diagnosed. One doctor told me not to worry about it as I had a lot of hair. I used to have really thick hair. Nice guy! Glad I finally found one who was wiser. It also helps with weight gain which is a nice plus. I am 57; with dark brown hair to the middle of my back and very little gray. One of the down sides to menopause for me as I did have some hair loss again, hair thins out, and I use a bio-identical hormone cream and that stopped that loss too. Copper and Zinc are both good to keep your hair from turing gray. My brother is 59 and has no gray, still blonde and told us about this. My husband who had gone complety white, not gray, started copper and zinc and his hair is gone back to salt and pepper, I can’t believe how much darker its become and he looks better. Darkened his mustache hair too. Hope this helps. Get that blood test, you will be glad you did.
Debbie Says:
Hi,
I just wanted to say that I do a lot of the suggested tips to prevent my hair from breaking, getting split ends, and such as this. But, I also suffer from SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosis) which has played havoc with my hair and skin. My hair falls out on one side more than on the other, my skin is drier than ever, my nails break, etc… my doctor has repeatedly checked my thyroid with no indication that there may be anything going wrong there.
I’ve enjoyed reading everyone’s responses and ideas. Some I’ve never thought of doing, but plan to try in the future. I play with lots of different oils as one of my favorite hobbies is soapmaking. I’ve even made my own shampoo, which I loved and need to make more, but am uncertain what the “detergent” effect would be on the colorant that I put into my hair that covers the gray.
Y’all have a great day and a Merry Christmas!
Debbie
Christie Says:
Thanks for posting this I have really long hair and I’m always drying to find out how to make my hair look healthier so I try straightening my hair every other day and I didn’t know alot of this tips so thanks!
Chris Says:
Comment to Iris: My sister and I had shoulder length hair all our lives. I am 40 and she is 47. While I continue with my long hair, she has lost hers. I believe (but she says not true) that when her hair dresser told her to sleep with conditioner in her hair, her hair would not be damaged from the chlorine in swimming pools. I always thought it was strange but she never listened to me (the little sister). Now her hair barely touches her shoulder. Iris, if you are sleeping with hair conditioner, that may be your problem.
Chris Says:
Also, does anyone know the answer to this question: The hair can only grow so long. After that, it will no longer grow. True or false? Does anyone know if this is true or false?
Iris Says:
Hi Chris—thanks for comment. I dont sleep w/conditioner in my hair that woudl require my hair to be wet. I do believe hair is weakest while wet…which is why i never sleep on wet hair. I think that even though ones hair might be soaking up the conditioner, it’s also breaking while you sleep on it…wet.
Also…many articles i’ve read say that hair only grows a certain amount a year, but i don’t really believe that. Prior to my current problem, my hair would grow healthy & strong all the time, i had to get frequent cuts ( i like healthy long hair) not long hair w/splits…lol!
Laura Says:
After stopped drinking alcohol and add magneisuim supplement too my diet my hair be came so thick. My hair dresser streches before a color weave it’s so much work
Jenn Says:
To Chris: There is actually a pre-determined genetic “limit” on an individual’s hair growth. With maximum care, your hair will grow to this length. After it reaches it, the amount of breakage matches the amount of new growth, which is why it doesn’t get any longer. Some people are lucky enough to have a longer “limit” than others.
Also, to everyone above who commented on shampoo: My only advice is to avoid shampoos with ingredients ending in -cone. You’d be shocked how many this eliminates. Most of those ingredients are harmful if you’re planning on growing out healthy hair, which I assume most people commenting here are. Pantene may leave hair smooth and sleek, but that’s because it’s the equivalent of stripping your hair of all its essential oils and moisture, and then coating it in a type of “wax”. It’s fine for short hair, but when you’re going for health and length…it’s less than ideal.
I’m nineteen and have had long hair since I was eight. It’s been mid-back to thigh-length for the past eleven years. After a trim of about nine inches last January, which left it just above the small of my back, it’s now down to mid-butt level and still growing. My goal? Knees. ^_^ It’s a very thick, wavy dark brown and is naturally highlighted with reds and golds. You wouldn’t believe the amount of comments I’ve gotten on it.
My last suggestion to anyone honestly interested in caring for their long hair: Find the longhair livejournal community. This article covers only the tip of the iceberg of information that these folks can give you.
MARY NAPLES Says:
Go to your regular doctor and ask about a thyroid test. Both low thyroid and high thyroid cause hair to fall out , nails to get thin and all kinds strange symtoms. It is an easy way to find out what’s up.
MARY NAPLES Says:
PS : my hair turned gray almost over night before the thyroid problem was taken care of.
Michelle Says:
thank you fro the hair tips. like them alot.
Lori Says:
I have had long hair my whole life and it’s very healthy. I don’t blow dry, only air dry. I use conditioner every time I wash, which is every day. You don’t have to use expensive conditioner. I only use White Rain (original only) it’s the best! You can also use mayo. every once in awhile. Mainly, I cut my hair every couple of weeks. Just a half an inch. People always want long beautiful hair but they never cut it. Big mistake! That’s how it says long and healthy and doesn’t die on the ends. Long, stringy, dead hair looks terrible. If it starts to look dead or dry on the ends, give it a good cut. It will look so much better and trust me it will grow. It will look thicker also. By the way, if you decide to color it, go to a salon. Oil it every time you wash, or you will end up with Barbie hair!
Lori-
kristine Says:
some of these tips seem very good, however others sound impossible for people with my hair type, like not brushing your hair when damp or wet, thats the only way my crazy curly hair can be untangled, do you have a solution for people like me?
Stephanie Says:
I had to cut my hair a couple of years ago due to a shoulder problem (couldn’t even get it in a clip. I has grown quite a bit, but I have a problem not addressed here. I’m a nurse in the operating room, and I have to wear a “shower cap” all day long at work. Since I wear that cap, why fix the hair? So I put it up in a ponytail, they add the shower cap. If I wear the paper ones that you see on a lot of TV shows, it gets really greasy (I only wash it every other day). I also like to show my personality with my caps, so I wear fabric ones. The biggest problems with any cap, is that it seems to break off around my face. I have fine, reasonably thick hair, that incidently is thinning some as I get older (40), as well as getting wavier. Any ideas on how to help prevent the breakage around the face?
Mary Beth Says:
Have had long, long hair most of my life. Have very thick, fine hair with a lot of natural curl that used to be a nightmare to comb out when wet…even after conditioning. Finally found the best conditioner for my hair was a product from Abba….TruMint conditioner. Is wonderful @ detangling & leaves hair with a wonderful fresh minty smell. I always get compliments on it. Have found all the other Abba products I’ve tried to also be excellent, but I can’t live without their conditioner!!
Stephy Says:
after growing my hair out for around 3 years, having lower-back length hair, i cut off a full 15″ inches for locks of love. i almost cried when it all came off. any tips for speedy re-growth? pretty much all i have heard for that are myths. but if there is anything i can do, please share. my hair grows so slowly. the tying up thing is one of the biggest tips i used, and it helped alot. i go to school at Central Michigan, and its so windy. i wore my hair in long pigtail braids for about the entire year. not also to mention, braid when dry, a couple hours in the braids, then afterwards i had the most beautiful wavy look, i had so many compliments!
Cloey Says:
This sounds like good advice, but how practical is it for the working woman? I have no choice but to wash my hair every weekday morning, and there’s no time to let it just hang dry. On that same note, I use a blow dryer on high and even on high it takes me a good 14 minutes to get my hair fully dried, I can only imagine how long it would take me on a low setting!
I towel dry after showering and then blow dry. I have colored my hair, it’s long, medium thickness and does in fact have split ends. Can’t someone find practical advice for the working woman?
Jennifer Says:
The first thing to help my start growing again was to stop highlighting it and let it go back to my natural color. I colored it back with permanent color the first time and used a protein filler. Now I touch it up periodically with “Natural Instincts which contains no peroxide or damaging coloring agents. I wash every 2-3 days, and to avoid that dirty feeling, I put it in a shower cap, and wash my hairline and my ears, it feels alot better and I have found that my former days of daily washing are over. I also use a pick to comb throughit when wet and avoid using a hair dryer, although sometimes my schedule wont permit this and I have to dry it. There are also alot of good leave in ends conditioners that help with dryness.
Boz Says:
ooo I read Cindy’s comment. Careful with those vitamins and minerals that are not water soluble (not expelled from the body with water intake and output, so to speak). It’s possible to overdose on them and can make you very ill. Zinc you get from everywhere, even the air, most make-ups, and if your water pipes are made of copper. It’s rare to have a zinc deficiency unless you’re in an underdeveloped country. Copper is in veggies, fruit, grains, nuts, and shellfish. Yes, we probably don’t get enough copper, but don’t overdose on these things either. Look up the RDA’s on these things.
Iodine can be obtained from iodized salt, meat, chicken, eggs, milk, low fat yogurt, fish and sea vegetables (seaweeds, like sushi is wrapped in, or Miso soup) . It’s also in most animal feed, so you can get it that way as well.
As suggested, have your doctor check you out for thyroid and anything else you might be lacking as far as supliments are concerned.
Supliments fall under the catagory of food, not drugs, therefore they don’t have to report to a government agency and also don’t have to report ill effects caused by overdosing on them.
Stephy Says:
p.s. reply to Stephanie the nurse. if you know someone who can french braid, look up “dutch crowns”. they are wonderful for long hair. i had them done all the time when i was in dance, because the huge bun on the back of my head literally threw me off balance. for a visual of the look, think of madame giry (the dance instructer in “phantom of the opera” how its wound around the head.) the breakage i’m not so sure about htough, sorry.
Kim Says:
I am a former hairdresser and I can tell you from experience that the number one destroyer of hair is heat. Heat heat Heat! Number two would be Brushes. But alot of us cannot get by without using a blowdryer or curling iron. The key is to do either or! If you are going to use intense heat to blow dry your hair then use medium to low heat to curl or vice versa! Using super hot blowdryer combined with super hot irons are a no no!
Ladydouji Says:
For the person who wanted a few other oils to use, here’s some.
Almond, Apricot oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil(this is the one I use, it’s solid at room tempature, scape a little bit off rub my hands together to melt, smooth other hair, leaving it nice and soft and shiny)
Stephanie Says:
if you have to wash everyday, dilute your shampoo, it works just as well, if not better, at least for me. plus it saves A TON on shampoo!!
Kittie Says:
wow, great tips everyone…seems like i have been trying to grow my hair longer forever….it is to my mid to low back…but even if i get it cut “straight across”, it always ends up gowing “in a v shape”, because of breakage etc, i’m sure..
i have wavy to curly blonde (although it is getting darker and “greyer” now..lol) and have been coloring it forever i am 36..
i do alot of the tips, but the one i could never seem to stick to was brushing it dry…my hair is sort of confusing to categorize…everyone comments on “how much hair i have”..but if it is in a pony tail, it is as big around as say, maybe a little bigger than a bic lighter..so i guess it is fine, but i have alot of it?…
it gets VERY tangled, i could have dreadlocks in 3 days…so the only way i can brush it, is wet with lots of condtioner, and frizz tamer etc…when i brush my hair dry, friends have commented that it sounds like i am ripping it out…lol (yes i start at the bottom etc..)
i have switched between many products…suave, paul mitchell, pantene, matrix etc..all i can say is none have been GREAT, but some have definitely been bad (none of these per se. i am currently using pantene “blonde” and paul mitchell “skinny”)…any CLARIFYING shampoo i ever used seemed to takes months to recover from..haven’t used any of those again in years!!!
ok so i guess i DO have a question…i have heard the ‘CONE’ thing before, and agree that many products do the opposite of what they should..stripping waxing etc..
but i heard not to use ANY MINERAL OIL based products, that it actually DRIES OUT THE HAIR…does anyone know if this is true?…also
JENN- could you please tell which product you found without the -cone?…lol..since you said it is so hard to find one without…
OH…and my mother swears by Almond oil, or coconut oil..now i don’t know if i could put a bunch on and walk out the door…but i like to put a bunch on, (MY FACE TOO)and then workout…then shower…although sure you are sweating it off..but the body heat does seem to still kind of help…
also, to the people who couldn’t go 1 day w/o washing there hair..i understand, my friend has the finest thinnest straight hair..and this would not work for her…but i can go 3 days at least..and you would never know…OK, sorry for the long posting…
Amy Says:
I have past the shoulder length fine but curly hair. I love how my hair looks long and healthy but I’ve found I cannot put conditioner or other styling products in my hair without chancing very bad acne or some such bumps under each side of my face.
Do any of you have similar problems? Any product recommendations?? Even “natural” products seem to cause this problem.
Kim Says:
Kittie
Do not use mineral oil. Made from crude oil, same stuff used to make gasoline. Try more natural oils like almond or oilve!
Jane Says:
Love these tips, and all the comments! I do most of these already but am anxious to try oiling my dry ends.
I have light brown/blonde, straight, fine, medium thick hair which is now to the middle of my back. Due to a friend’s extreme sensitivity to fragrances I’ve gone to using non-fragranced shampoo and conditioner, which actually work well to ‘lighten up’ my hair texture. I love them: Earthscience’s “pure essentials” fragrance-free shampoo and conditioner, which I find in grocery stores specializing in healthy, organic foods and products. Generally I air-dry my hair by leaning over, finger-fluffing and scrunching at the roots. However, the conditioner does not leave my hair very silky so I take care to comb it out (wet, with a plastic hair pick) from the ends to the top. I used to use a great Pantene product, “lightweight conditioning foam” or/and their “volumizing hairspray,” but these are too perfumed for my friend. Does anyone have a suggestion for a fragrance-free conditioning product? (I’m asking the earthsciences company as well.) Thanks!
Lori Says:
I do agree with the wind comment, one of the worst things I ever did was ride a motorcycle with my hair down. It took me hours to brush it out. I wash my hair every day, more in the summer (especially swimming) and never found it a problem. I only towel dry wrapping the towel around the long hair and gently squeezing. Long hair does get dirty from second hand smoke, polution,… I like to keep it up when cleaning and cooking. It will stay clean that way and still smells of shampoo when you take it down. I condition and put it in a braid while swimming, then wash and condition after. I’m 44 and still have lond healthy hair. So does my daughter and the boys. It can be work, but it’s worth it.
Tammy Says:
Another great product to use on the ends of your hair is “Ojon” - it is a solid packed nut oil that you put a dab in your hands and rub together and it becomes a light oil to rub in your hair prior to shampooing. You leave it in for approx. 20-30 minutes. For really damaged hair, you can put in your hair, cover with a shower cap and sleep on it and shampoo in the morning. Use less if you want to use without shampoo. Puts on a nice sheen, too. One place you can purchase it is online at http://www.QVC.com. It has a nice scent, too, almost exotic.
Vannessa Says:
If you can’t brush your hair when it is wet, then when do you brush it? If it’s towel dried then brush it your hair gets all nappy and nasty.
Nee Says:
I am of native american, african and european descent and I have curly/wavy thick, medium- long hair (down my back an inch and half above my bra line). In the past my hair was at the middle of my back, but that was when I was taking care of it ( washing it 2-3 times a week, conditioning with a concoction of a deep conditioner (containing no alcohol, as alcohol tends to dry out hair), extra virgin olive oil , oiling it with a concoction of hair food( TBC)and extra virgin olive oil, braiding or wraping it and using a satin scraf to retent moisture and prevent breakage).
Olive oil really! keeps my hair moisturized, soft, shiny and very managable. Now, I want longer hair, so I am starting to reimplement my old system. My hair grows really fast, but I was not taking care of it. But since I started reimplementing my old system its growing nicely, with very little breakage.
Lori Says:
I never use a comb or pick. I finger comb in the shower after conditioning to help with tangels and remove lose hair. I use a large nylon brush with long bristles the I get from a beauty supply store. They can be expensive but my hair is very thick so I can’t use cheap brushes. Make sure you keep them clean with hot soapy water. Don’t let anyone else use your brush, if they do, use soup and boiling water.
For the working girl: When I was in school or when I’m at work (according to what kind of work I’m doing) I put my hair in a wet braid. It stays clean and out of the way. It is some times damp when I take it out, then it has beautiful soft curls that I let air dry the rest of the way. No, it has never damaged my hair, but I have healthy, thick, hair. I also use hair ties that are made from the same stuff as stockings with no metal clips, so my hair doesn’t damage or break.
michelle Says:
women can also go bald just like men do its in the family
Lori Says:
Don’t use soup, use soap, please
Lori Says:
I am not African American but there are wonderful hair products meant for Afrian Amercan hair that are good for all hair types.
Lisa Says:
There is another fabulous site besides the one in the article over at Naturallycurly.com. It has a wonderful forum and a wealth of information on how to care for naturally wavy and curly hair for any ethnicity. Alot of the tips given here are great for straight hair, but us wavy/curlies have other hair issues that go beyond what was mentioned in this article.
JC Says:
I have had long straight hair 90% of my life. I do very little with it and this works best. I can use just about any shampoo. I generally only condition the ends and not all the time. I have untreated well water so at least once a week I use a well water action shampoo. I wash it every other day unless activity requires more. I use a hair dryer or hot rollers only when needed for a special function. I shower and wash my hair at the same time and never shampoo my hair all on top the head. I wrap my hair in a super absorbant hair towel then turn my head upside down and shake fluff away from the scalp and go. I do not even comb it. I never comb when wet. Most of the tips given are the best way to maintain healthly smooth locks.
Lora Says:
Hello everyone, I wanted to say thank you for the excellent suggestions. Iris, I am sort of in the same place as you. Except, my hair has always been falling out, since I was about 18, I am now 37. I had many Thyroid tests done, no indications of a problem. I have not been to a dermatologist as of yet. I may need to check into that. I had a hysterectomy when I was 26, so I think that made my situation a lot worse. Then I had gastric bypass surgery 2 years ago, ever since then I have noticed very fine areas through out my scalp. It is very depressing. It seems to be mostly in the front, near my hair line. There are no women in my immediate family with this problem. The doctors that I have seen said I wasn’t getting enough protein, due to the gastric bypass surgery. I then started religiously taking protein supplements and many vitamins. One doctor did recommend zinc, although, I have not noticed any change. I have always had fine, wavy hair. It never seems to get longer than shoulder length. It is chemically treated. I do use a lot of the tips that previous people have mentioned. I am just at my wits end about the hair loss. I wake up to tons of hair on my pillow. In my shower drain, all over the place. I have a wool coat, big mistake there..lol…I don’t really have any suggestions, just wanted you to know that you aren’t alone. If anyone out there has any other ideas or advice, I am open for it. Iris, just don’t give up, I have thought about extensions, but my stylist said that would make matters worse and it is very costly to maintain. I just want a permanent solution. Even if my hair didn’t ever get long, just to have it stop falling out would be a blessing. Thanks to all
Happy Holidays ~^~PeacE~^~
Laura Says:
To Iris: What you are describing sounds like a form of alopecia… are you having any trouble with losing the hair from your eyebrows or eyelashes? Please go see the best dermatologist that you can find; she/he should be able to help you with your problem. It may surprise you, but your problem is far more common than you realize… there are many people out there who are wearing wigs and extensions to cover up the problem. The dermatologist can also prescribe any meds that some of the other ladies are recommending you try. BEST OF LUCK, AND THINK POSITIVE!!!
KA Says:
For those with really thick, curly and coarse hair who want to be able to straighten it and have it silky and soft here’s a tip:
You can use a flat iron (as long as it’s ceramic)(the thinner the flat iron, the better). Put it on high but use Dove “Sheer Moisture” Leave-In Replenishing Mist on each portion of hair that goes through the flat-iron. It prevents damage, dryness and split-ends. For an alternate product, try Biosilk Silk Therapy. However, I find the Dove Replenishing Leave-In smells much better.
I used to have my mother straighten my hair with an iron and handkerchief, but decided to invest in a flat-iron.
Also, when blow-drying my hair so I don’t get any damage, I use the Dove Replenishing Leave-In Mist.
Because my husband prefers curly hair, and it takes much less time to get ready by leaving it curly, I don’t straighten it very often.
I’ve seen in drugstores whole aisles devoted to African-American hair care.
For those with terribly oily hair: Try the Shampoo and Conditioners in one. They skimp on the conditioner so my hair turns out knotty, but they are great for really oily scalp.
For those with scalp sores and other problems: Try washing your scalp with Tersaseptic antibacterial medicated soap. It worked wonders on my male friend’s scalp which was full of sores due to health problems.
For those who have really dry hair: On damp hair, slather Bag Balm and put a handkerchief over your hair when you go to bed(otherwise it’ll stain your pillowcase) If you repeat this for awhile your hair will be soft and moisturized. Otherwise, definitely use a leave-in conditioner when you sleep at night.
I usually use brushes with plastic tips so my scalp gets a massage and no skin breaks. As well, when I’m going curly I don’t brush my hair lest I get frizz-galore. I finger-comb my hair to get rid of the excess hair that’s fallen out, and then style and go.
For those who get acne: To prevent pimples along my hairline or on my scalp, I use either Thermasilk or Pantene Pro-V Shine(the blue one). I try not to overdo it on products as well. But, if you get pimples, then use the Tersaseptic as it will clear up the acne but make sure to use a conditioner on your hands.
Sorry so long-winded, but when I get going on my tips I don’t shut up, apparently.
KA Says:
duh… “be sure to use a conditioner after using tersaseptic on your ENDS” not hands. HAHA
carmen Says:
hi… ihave plm my hair scalp and itch.. i did use all shampoo . still little good . but gel and mouse gave me itch and scalp . now i use shampoo neutrogena t/gel is ok … my hair is curlS.. i loved use gel .. but itch and scalp .. pls help me … and how and what name shampoo ?? ok thanks
gwen Says:
I have very long hair (about two inches above my waist.) It is very fine and silky and naturally wavy to curly depending on the weather. I have very few split ends and ironically I brush it when it is wet and I blow dryer and curl or straighten almost everyday. Not only that I use a two-in-one shampoo and conditioner and I have to wash it every day or it become too oily.
I used to spend tons of money on expensive shampoo and I still swear by Biosilk shine serum. One day I ran out of shampoo and I missed getting to Ulta so I was forced to buy the “evil” cheap shampoo. It works much better on my hair type because cheap shampoos have more detergent. I don’t wash my tips - just the roots every day and sometimes twice a day. (I wish I didn’t have to do this.)
I have been using Fructis Long and Strong/Length and Strenght products. I started with the shampoo and conditioner and switched to the two in one. I still use a deep conditioner on the roots once a month - for those of you that like oils - I have used the V05 - hot oil treatment. I like the warmth on my shoulders. I also use the Fructis leave-in Length and Strength split end repair.
All that being said - I admit I am blessed with good hair but I recently underwent a low dosage chemotherapy treatment and I began losing my hair. (Didn’t go bald but I could pull small chunks out while running my hands through my hair) What has helped me regain the lost hair is the vitamin supplement Biotin. It also assists with nails and it’s cheap in the vitamin aisle.
Katie Danzy Says:
I am an african american and have hair hanging down the middle of my back. My hair is all on length all over,I have a terrific beautician who takes good care of my hair. I go every two weeks,I only get soft sets done on my hair. My hair is a pretty good grade so I don’t have to do anything special to it doing the week. I do use pomade by motions on my ends doing the week just to keep them soft . My hair is also extremely thick so I think that helps alot in never having problems with split ends. I always get deep conditioners every time I get my hair washed.I think women in general
Steph Says:
Hi
Olivia,
I have the same longer/shoulder length blonde hair that is flat/greasy if I over-condition it. I do have to condition it because I color it at home (I know ouch!) and do wash it every other day. I have learned if I condition just the ends then wash just my roots then condition ends again that works. Also try a volumizing shampoo/conditioner. I like Matrix products and really like Paul Mitchells extra body thicken up on roots. I plan on letting the color grow natural (dark reddish blonde) and only get highlights done by the pros–just so darn expensive at times though.
Katelynn Says:
I have hair just passed my shoulders and split ends around my face. My hair is naturally wavy and I would LOVE to wear it like that, but I can never seem to get rid of frizz. I use conditioner and moose. I’m afraid to put oil in my hair b/c it gets very flat when I do. What can I use?
Janice Says:
Great tips and advice! I have had long hair since I was 10 years old and even went through a decade of spiral perms in the 80’s and early 90’s! My long hair back then was very healthy with no split ends because I shampooed it every other day and blow-dried with a diffuser. Now, I am almost 40 and wear my long hair (middle of back) naturally straight with some highlights added. I do the same routine but with out the diffuser, use a plastic pick when hair is wet, and towel dry and blow dry to slightly damp every other day. My hair is very healthy (medium to thick), no split ends and no tangle problems. I will try the oil suggestions for the ends and maybe a sleek/shine product after reading all of this.
Thanks for sharing!
Sandy Says:
I am 66 years old and still have my long (to my butt) strawberry blond hair that I had when I was in my 20’s. Have not colored it, and it has not turned white except for a few strands around my face.
My hair is fine and thick and healthy. I never blow dry and very rarely (maybe once a month) use a curling iron. I wash it everyday with Sebastian Shampoo (used Mohair for years and they just changed the shampoo to “Thick In”). Have no split ends, but I do keep it trimmed every six months. Use a conditioner on the ends once every three or four weeks, if the weather has been unusually harsh (we get lots of wind where I live). It grows a half an inch a month.
And phooey to the people that think old people shouldn’t have long hair because of their age! I get so many compliments on my hair from all ages, and it makes me appear younger! My husband and kids love it, and all my friends say if they had my hair they would keep it long too!
If growing older makes you look less than perfect, and if you are able to maintain your long beautiful hair, it enhances your appearance. To the eye of the beholder you appear more beautiful! Yeah for all the older long haired ladies!
SHAE Says:
I have long thick naturally curly hair that comes to the middle of my back and I grew it back out after cutting it, by washing it once a week, applying cholesterol (generously) right after washing it, comb through and let sit for about 10-15 minutes, rinse and apply a leave in conditioner (this is a weekly routine) In the summer I only wear it curly and I use either mousse or a non alcohol based gel (cause it will dry my hair out). When it’s blown out, I flat iron it and then it’s wraped at night or plated into sections. I try to avoid curling irons everyday and use rollers if I want some soft curls. These tips work very well for someone with my type of hair. I wore my hair curly the whole summer and I just went to get it done and my hair is sooo long now and very healthy! Don’t forget to trim your ends!!!!!!
Valentina Bell Says:
I have medium coarse, curly underneath, and fairly straight on top, hair. I use Abba Scentsation every 3 to 4 days, and It is AWESOME! It has a peppermint scent that is very uplifiting in the shower. Just leave on for 2 minutes. More if you are heavily damaged. I haven’t used oil the way everyone is suggesting, but I will give it a try too! Hope you like the Abba Scentsation!
Barb Says:
I used to have waist length hair but at 67 find that shoulder length is more flattering and makes me look younger. I had a 6 month period of loosing hair and used the Nioxin line of products with great resuts. My hair is back to being very thick. Now I use only Pureology products but will give the oil suggestion a try. I also wash every other day and use a pick to “comb” out and let it air dry till I style it with a cool blow dryer and sometimes just a touch of a curling iron. I have very few split ends even though I use highlights.
Jana Says:
What I did to grow it out. After a salon botch-job, my long hair had to be cut to above-shoulder length. After a period or intense sobbing, my friend recommended “fake” hair. So I purchased a clip of long natural/real ($120.00) hair that matched mine and did nothing but wash and condition-NO blow drying or heat-and placed my clip of fake hair on for 18 months. The clip was easy and my appearance looked polished. The clip is now stored away and my hair back to normal! What a life saver!
Lisa Says:
Hi ladies, I can tell we all care greatly about our hair and appearance. I can relate to TERESA. I found that the new Pantene Pro-V Restoratives Breakage Defense is working for me. It states on the label it will “strenthen and fortify weak and exhausted hair to provide up to 90% less hair fall due to breakage in 1 month!” My hair still falls out in the shower but not as much. This product has made a difference. My stylist recommended it. Although it’s not the best smelling shampoo (not horrible odor but not pleasantly scented either) my hair has gotten a little longer and I’ve noticed less split ends! My hair has always been baby thin and short, and I don’t think that will ever change. My nails are very healthy and grow incredibly fast but my hair breaks very easily so I will probably never have a thick, long flowing mane. My grandmother and great-grandmother had VERY thick and long hair that they used to be able to sit on it. They used to swing it around and brush it 100 times too! They had to get it thinned because it was so heavy that it used to hurt their heads. My mother had very thick hair as well. The good hair stopped with me. My hair is now all one length (bob style) and just touching shoulder length after I got it trimmed to one-length and highlighted. I am mid 30s and never had long hair. If it’s not meant to be for me to have “long hair,” it’s not the end of the world. So be it. Stress will DEFINATELY make your hair fall out. I’ve also seen change in diet, new/change in medication or even the birth of a child can effect your hair! Keep the tips coming and try not to turn this website into a war against each other. Everyone is entitled to free speech and their own hair style. I’m going to try some of the suggestions mentioned here. Thanks ladies!
jeri Says:
has anyone ever heard of Crush products? This is a protein mud mask that I used and it did wonders for my curly hair. alas I bought it at marshalls or someplace like that and can’t find it again. any ideas? it made my curly hair very soft and shiny and the curls were distinctly separated, not frizzy.
maxine hammond Says:
i am aN OLder woman and i quit taking my hOrmones {just]\ estrogen} when the scare come out and i have noticed hair loss, buT my dr doesn’t see the necessity of returning to my hormones now that i have been off them for 3 yrs about, but if i thought it would help my hair loss i would take them in a new york minute .my hair was pretty thick and mediUm fine and i could do anything with it .its now grayer as i quit coloring it for the Dermotologists says coloring can damage hair and he Suggested i let it rest. but it is still coming out had a blood test for thyroid but they say there is another in-depth thyroid test i plan to have that one my grandmother had a goiter and that is thYroid trouble i think, anyway i am still hoping to find the problem aLSo a Dr here in fl where i live says there is a test for para-thyroid disease and thaT IS A CAUSE FOR DRY SKIN-HAIR LOSS AND A NUMBER OF THINGS .WILL CONSULT HIM ALSO.he says a small tumor can come on the parathyroid glands that only if normal are about the size of a grain of rice,and there are 4 of them and if one is enlarged or a tumor is there ,it can cause hair loss and a number of problems.our bodies are a wonderful thing but boy they can be full of puzzles also.
Leah Says:
I found that some straighteners take and completely torch my hair. I have ugly waves in my hair and I feel that I must use a straightener. What should I use to help replenish my hair after I straighten it.
Carol Says:
To Cloey. I was employed for 30+ years with my hair below my waist the entire time. I too washed my hair daily and never owned a blow dryer even though I fought the seasons in Ohio. After a shower, I wrapped my hair in a towel while I had my coffee, got dressed and put on the minimal amount of make-up. Last on the list - my hair. I took it out of the towel. It was no longer dripping wet, but yes, it was damp. I gently combed it only enough to detangle it and then left the house. It was dry by the time I arrived at work - and if it was still damp - oh well. The lack of heat was far better for keeping my hair healthy and shiney and with minimal split ends. A one inch trim twice a year and my hair is gleamy and strong. I agree with all of the washing and conditioning tips. Shampoo the top, condition the rest. Everyone needs a conditioner no matter how oily your scalp is. Those oils do not reach the ends. Whether you use a “Shine In” hair product or a natural food oil, all ends need help. Recently I started a swimming routine and found this was taking a toll on my hair. I didn’t see anyone mention the wonderful long hair products by the George Michael salons. The light Madera pink conditioner is my saviour. I rub a dab on the ends of my hair, twist it or braid it to help keep the conditioner from rinsing out immediately while I swim. Then I rinse the chlorine our of my hair as soon as I leave the pool. My hair looks as good if not better than before the swimming classes. I will cheat and use some cheaper shampoos, but I always use the George Michael conditioner and the 60 second thicker conditioner. It’s the best. It’s concentrated so it last a good while and as they say on TV, your hair is worth it. I don’t know if this addresses those with gray hair, but mine is turning and I plan to continue using George Michael productions (including a blue shampoo to occassionally clean off the build up.) See if you can find a salon who carries it.
Kimmi Says:
I have brown hair down to my shoulders and an oval face. I dont know if I should cut it or let it keep growing. I also wash my hair every morning because it gets oily. Now I have split ends and I dont want to make my hair look stragely with conditioner but I need help with my hair!! Some one help!
heather Says:
I have brown hair. What color highlights should I put into my hair to make it look better?????
Susan Says:
I have had long hair for over 30 years (I’m now 52). Thank you for the tip on hormone cream - I lost hair going through menopause, so I’ll be trying that one! I put coconut oil on the ends of my hair, and tie it back and wash only my scalp most days, leaving the rest dry. That way I’m only wetting all my hair twice a week (I have a very oily scalp). Conditioning is the key, only use a wide toothed comb, and watch when you wear it down - think of the friction from car seats and chair backs can cause problems. I know this, because I can sit on my hair. For a deep condition, I use natural egg mayonaise and sit with it under a shower cap for about an hour. Then wash it out and use a conditioner. The eggs and oil in the REAL mayonaise do your hair the world of good and make it lovely and silky. Unattractive at my age? I receive tons of compliments, and the man in my life wouldn’t have it any other way - he loves my hair.
Megan Says:
One product I LOVE is a straightening aerosol spray - I purchased mine at a Bath and Body Works Flagship store, but I’ve seen John Frieda ones too. I have a lot of volume naturally, and I love how light this spray feels - it isn’t for hold, it just feels like you’re spraying silk on your hair.
BrownEyes Says:
Wait, so are you saying that I should not brush my hair when it’s wet. I usually take a shower, find my part, and brush my hair, then let it dry over night. Lately I’ve been just brushing out the part, and leaving the bottom messy, should I be waiting the next morning to brush out the little tanglies? Am I doing this correct?!
MaryK Says:
I, too, have thyroid problems: a goiter that’s been growing for 30 years, although my blood thyroid tests come back normal. One can have thyroid problems if the body’s cells’ receptors for thyroid hormone are not active. Since there is no test for the activity of the cells’ receptors, if you have symptoms of thyroid disorder, please treat it. My internist gives me DHEA, that the body can change into various hormones as needed, and “Sam-e”, a natural metabolism booster. Also, once I got my “silver” fillings, that actually contain more than 50% mercury– the most toxic chemical known to man– removed, my hair fallout decreased significantly. And, when I started using Jason’s Tea Tree Oil Shampoo and Conditioner, it ceased altogether.
I had one molar removed that was abscessed, and I asked the doctor if I could have the tooth to show my kids. He said, “No. By law we have to put this in a toxic waste dump because of the mercury in it.” Yet, it was ok for them to put in my mouth! Get those “silver/mercury” fillings removed and your fatigue will disappear, too. (God bless you.)
Katherine Says:
To people with broken ends close to the scalp like Su, the Native American woman with silver hair (sounds beautiful). You might try using a couple of drops of olive oil with a little of any silicone product, like silicone gel added in. Smooth it on the part of your air that “corkscrews.” It really helps mine.
MAry Says:
Infusium 23 is the best conditioner. It’s a little more expensive but there’s a reason for that. It’s the closest thing I’ve found to the super awesome conditioners that come woth the hair coloring kits.
Jessica Says:
I have long, brown, naturally straight hair to the middle of my back. I’ve never colored it. I don’t use a blow dryer. I use the old Herbal Essence Shampoo and Conditioner for normal hair. (They have since discontinued it, but I bought in bulk direct from their store since I’m a fan of their new products). I comb through my hair when it’s wet to detangle and I brush it shortly after. I let it air dry. I rarely have split ends, only getting them when I try to curl my ends when I dress up. My hair is RIDICULOUSLY shiny, INCREDIBLY soft, and very silky. I’ve received compliments from strangers from every where I go asking how I have such beautiful hair. I’ve had many ask just to run their hands through it - men AND women. Not using heat, chemicals, or oil has given me my trademark hair. It may take a while for your hair to get used to it, but believe me, it works. Sounds weird, but your head will FEEL better with healthy hair. Try what I do for a month or so, see what happens. Don’t know if it will work for all hair types, but it definately worked for me. Just some suggestions…
Angela Says:
To Iris: I actually put the conditioner on dry hair. Just the tips and then sleep with a towel to protect my pillow.
Jade Says:
To Amy: I break out very easily with hair products and soaps. It doesn’t matter which brand or ingredients I try. Soaps and conditioners must leave a residue on the skin that mixes with natural oils or sweat and causes pimples for people like you and me. I used to get pimples on my face, ears, on my back and chest, and occasionally in other places! What I have been doing for the past 10 years to fix this is: Rinse my hair out COMPLETELY after conditioning especially along the hairline, followed by scrubbing my entire face and body with a wash cloth down to the last crevice. I have also tried loofah and such but it seems too abrasive for everyday–washcloth works best for me. If I skip a day, I end up with a pimple somewhere–it’s worth the extra few minutes daily! I also use a benzoyl peroxide face wash (peter thomas roth) but you may be ok without (my father has the same problem and doesn’t need anything beyond the washcloth method). If I use styling product, I try not to get it too close to my hairline (maybe 2-3 inches away) but I only use product maybe once or twice per week. I also occasionally use benzoyl peroxide moisturizer but it doesn’t moisturize very well and can bleach fabrics.
I hope some of these tips help you. If they do, make sure the person washing your hair at your salon knows to spend a little extra time rinsing the conditioner out along your hairline!
Good Luck!
Wendy Says:
Chris, like a long- or a short-haired dog (or other species), people seem to have pre-set hair lengths! My grandmother’s hair, for instance, has never been cut, and is short and curly !
Wendy Says:
Stress affects “hair color,” too. I have observed white returning to dark at the roots, then returning to white again when Stress (re)hit!
aida Says:
thank you so much for all of the tips. I was about to cut my hair but thanks to this article, I will try these tips first.
krimp Says:
i have very dry ends, and very healthy roots. i’ve come to learn about two products that are in my opinion AMAZING. first is a sulfate free shampoo. shampooing daily is only harmful when it contains sulfate in it. did you know sulfate is also used on the streets in the winter to prevent sliding in the snow? not on my hair. i also use a cleansing conditioner by WEN. it may not lather, but it smells great and is really good for helping you grow your hair faster. my scalp will get a cool tingling which means its working really well. it’s great on my dry ends. it washes them (not too much) and conditions them at the same time. it’s also a leave in conditioner and is great for shaving!! ♥
Vicki Says:
Thanks for all of your GREAT tips! I have long hair, all of my life, and am older too, I’m going to try quite a few of the tips I’ve read on here…Thanks!
Billie Says:
Loved all the tips. I’ve been using the Sunsilk line of products lately, and been applying some of the conditioner after my shower, combing it through and then keeping a towel on my head, turban style for about half an hour. I never blow dry, EVER. I’ve been growing my hair for several years now, for the purpose of donating it to Locks of Love, http://www.locksoflove.com
They make hairpieces/wigs for little girls who have lost their hair due to medical conditions. So, if any of you ladies are ever considering a 10 inch or more “trim”, please consider this worthy cause. See the website on how to donate (there are specific directions.)
capri Says:
OK…love all the tips, but one thing that was not made clear. Do you oil with damp hair or totally dry hair????
Nita Says:
The tips are great, especially about oils and prenatal vitamins. I think i’ll try both. My hair was long straight,silky,black and smooth and grew really fast. As soon as I turned 12-13, my hair became a different personality. It was coarse, dry, curly and won’t grow past 3 inches of my shoulders. I’ve had the same hair length since I graduated high school!! I’m 24 now. I’ve cut my hair only once since then in a salon. Every now and then I cut it at home about an inch and a half to get rid of split ends. Only thing is…if my thyroid is the problem (i have extreme intolerance to cold, my hair is dry and falling out, and thinned, my lips are dry almost all year, and I’m fatigued most of the time, and I’ve been overweight most of my life.) Despite all this, my nails are very strong, white ends with pink nail beds and have been complimented continously for my beautiful nails. They dont break easily,nor are they brittle and they grow incredibly fast. So can it still be my thyroid???
cosmochris Says:
if you dont want dried out dead ends. do not use any product with alcohol in it daily. the alcohol will dry out the hair if used alot.
Helene Says:
I have fine, stick-straight hair and have had a lot of success with the Fructus Long & Strong products. It has improved my split ends by 90% at least and my hair has grown longer than I’ve had it in years! Unfortunately, my hair is so fine and thin I do need to blow dry to give it some volume and I’m sure the heat cancels out some of the product’s effectiveness, but since I’ve learned how to all curl with a round brush at least I’m not using a curling iron.
Karen Says:
There is always something about yourself you don’t like/ or would wish you could have by envy of someone else. I am 48 years old and I have always loved my HAIR. I have been very lucky to have a beautiful head of hair, almost perfect. It is not to oily or to dry, it grows fast, is just the right texture, not to thin, not to thick. It is very shiny,soft,managible. I have colored it myself at home since I have been 26 years old, with a family recipe my MOM mixed togeather using two different colors by clariol. I have used the same color all my life. It is so radiant that People have always asked me if it is a natural color, almost like perfect natural highlights that just glow, ( I color to cover grey). I think that is the only flaw is that in my family we turn grey at a young age, but it has never effected me. I have found myself with a mirror just admiring my own hair. How many people can say that. Before anyone thinks the worst of me KEEP READING my story.
I found myself unable to enjoy my hair these past 8 years with tears in my eyes and a hurt in my heart. I have a daughter that is 22 years old that has and has had many medical problems in her life that her hair is such a main focus of her saddness. I don’t think I have to explain what hair means to a teenage girl or a young woman. Where things stand now at this time in her life is very hard to detect the reason for her hair falling out, the baby fine thin straw like hair really never grew much along with bald spots. From medications, tramatic surgeries, stress to polycystic diesease and numerous female problems, it has been very hard to watch her look at and touch my hair always telling me mommy I wish I had your hair,what happened to mine. I avoid doing my hair, messing with it,most of the time keeping it up, but I think about her every minute of every day and if I could give her my hair I honestly would. I guess is what my point is that look at yourselves and be happy with what you got . Everyone is beautiful, stop stressing and fix your hair up nice the way you like it, enjoy your hair, there are alot of women that would give anything for a beautiful head of hair like yours or mine.
There is locks of love which i think is wonderful and for good reason of course, but there is help needed for teenage girls and young women to keep there self esteem up through life also. It can take a toll with many adverse effects on them in there young life.
I have promised my daughter my hair(locks) when I pass away, in my will. She will have a part of me with her then while she is able to have a smile on her beautiful face.
I just have to get more info. for her on how to follow through with my wishes for her. If anyone could help with any information i would greatly appreciate it.
Thankyou,
Karen
Have A Good Hair Day !!!
KA Says:
To LEAH:
As I stated above, whilst straightening your dry curly hair, use Dove Sheer Moisture Replenishing Leave-In Mist. (it’s a blue bottle) (Or Biosilk Silk Therapy Oil - a little messier and not as great a smelling product) Just a few spritzes per section of hair to wet it (target your ends) and then straighten. Afterwards, about 3 times a week I used to use V05 Hot Oil treatments but I haven’t seen them in the U.S. only in Canada so far. I just condition my hair with deep conditioners and I’m fine afterwards.
To KATELYNN:
I have very thick, coarse, curly brown hair that tends to frizz beyond belief. I use Neutrogena Triple Moisture Silk Touch Leave-In Cr