How to fix hair breakage

Breakage happens when the hair shaft weakens and snaps before it reaches its natural length. You may see short uneven pieces, split ends, rough texture or broken hairs on clothing and in the brush. Tight styles, repeated colouring or relaxing, frequent hot tools, vigorous brushing and friction from towels can all contribute. Breakage is different from shedding, in which a complete hair leaves the follicle. It can also occur alongside scalp problems such as Scalp Ringworm or tension-related Traction Alopecia, so the pattern matters.

Wash with lukewarm water and smooth shampoo over the scalp rather than scrubbing the lengths. Use conditioner through the mid-lengths and ends, detangle with a wide-tooth comb, and start at the ends while hair is damp. Blot with a soft towel instead of rubbing. Give hair a break from bleaching, chemical straightening and tight braids or ponytails; use the lowest practical heat setting and a heat protectant when styling. Trim visibly split ends and avoid pulling at knots. Choose loose styles and change where any fastening sits.

Arrange a dermatology review if breakage is sudden, extensive, painful, or accompanied by itching, scale, tenderness, sores, smooth bald areas or a widening part. A child with broken hairs and a scaly scalp needs timely assessment because infection can resemble cosmetic damage. Seek help if gentle care does not improve the pattern or if hair is being pulled tightly despite discomfort; early changes may prevent ongoing follicle stress.

Ask whether the pattern is shaft breakage, shedding, traction or a scalp disorder; whether recent products or styling practices are contributing; and which treatments are suitable for the scalp and hair texture.