If you’re noticing excessive dryness, frayed ends or more frizz than usual, your hair may need some TLC. “Physically damaged hair has a raised outer cuticle layer that makes it look dull, causes it to snag and lacks movement. It doesn’t swing or sway the way healthy hair does,” says Chris Appleton, a celebrity hairstylist.
When this happens, things can snowball quickly. As Appleton explains, “The raised cuticle layer allows for moisture to leach out of your hair, so it becomes more and more dehydrated. Over time, the sulfur bonds that keep your hair strong and elastic begin to break down and the hair becomes fragile and prone to splitting or breaking.” Along with getting a trim and reducing heat exposure to your hair, you should also incorporate a mask into your routine.