What should you know about causes of dry hair and breakage?

The visible hair shaft is non-living, so repeated bleaching, colouring, straightening, hot tools, sun exposure, or rough handling can wear down its protective outer layer. The result may be rough texture, split ends, tangling, and strands that snap during brushing. Breakage is different from shedding: a broken strand leaves a short piece, while a shed hair usually has a full length.

Tight braids, extensions, ponytails, or head coverings that pull repeatedly can contribute to Traction Alopecia, especially around the hairline. Scalp Ringworm may cause scaling, itch, tenderness, broken hairs, or patchy areas and needs medical treatment rather than cosmetic repair.

Reduce heat and chemical processing, loosen hairstyles, and rotate where hair is secured. Apply conditioner through the lengths, detangle gently from the ends upward, and avoid brushing aggressively when hair is wet. A smooth pillowcase and regular trims can reduce friction and split-end progression, although trimming does not change the follicle or treat scalp disease.

Photograph any patchy area and note itching, scale, tenderness, or a recent change in hairstyle. A clinician can examine the scalp and distinguish shaft damage from follicle or infection-related problems.

Book an assessment if breakage is patchy, the scalp is itchy or scaly, the skin is sore, or the hairline is receding where styles pull. Seek prompt care if there is swelling, pus, fever, or rapidly worsening scalp pain. Persistent breakage despite gentler care also merits review, particularly when new thinning appears.

Ask: Is this shaft breakage, shedding, or traction? Are there signs of scalp inflammation or infection? Which styling practices should stop first? Could a treatment restore the scalp environment, and how should I protect new growth while it is fragile?