new thread
Hi guys, this might be kind of a dumb question, but there's some fundamental things about the concept of hair damage that I don't understand, and what to look for when it comes to my own hair which is pretty wavy, and often even curly in the mornings when i've just gotten up, looking somewhat hellish
If someone with wavy or curly hair has fly-aways and whatnot, how do you know what is just considered part of the awkward stage, and what is legitimate damage. If the hair is not together in nice strands, is this considered damage, or just one of the inherently negative, but not necessarily "damage-indicative" characteristics of thinner hair?
Or am I asking the wrong questions when it comes to the ultimate question of damage?
Sometimes my hair feels great, but sometimes I question what I really know about the true nature (and possible damage) of my hair, not necessarily out of a concern for vanity, but more out of concern for my hair's long-term health. I need to get myself a digital camera at some point, but for now I'd really appreciate any feedback on the above. Thanks!
Look for split ends (individual hairs with a forked appearance at or near the end); that's the most obvious sort of damage and can only be remedied by trimming off the split part.
If your hair ends are kind of "sticky" and velcro-like, tangle easily and detangle only with difficulty, this also indicates there might be damage, it can help to use a vinegar rinse or clarifying shampoo to remove any buildup you might have, and then condition, condition, condition.
"Dryness" is a subjective observation, and curly hair can be sort of dry in its normal state, but if your hair feels crispy and/or strands break very easily without stretching very much, try getting water on your hair daily and using a leave-in conditioner or oil like jojoba oil or shea butter to lubricate and moisturize.
Curly hair should be handled extra gently, and only as much as absolutely necessary, to minimize damage. I never brush at all, and comb to detangle only when wet and coated with conditioner to provide lubrication. When dry, I only use my fingers to carefully smooth, arrange, or separate. Shampoo as infrequently as possible with a gentle, creamy shampoo; you may find you can get away witj just conditioning and rinsing on some days to stretch out the time between shampoos.
I hope that helps you. Mary C.
I have found actual knots that have tied themselves in individual strands of hair about an inch from the ends. I think that could be considered damage as well since you can't get them undone. I just leave them though. They don't hurt anything.
Thanks so much Mary C., that does help. It's one those very basic "afraid to ask" questions for me!
YOu are welcome, I'm glad to help. Long, curly hair on men is so rare, and so attractive, good luck to you.