Very Dry and Brittle Hair: What to Know

The visible hair shaft is made of keratin and does not repair itself in the way living skin does. Repeated bleaching, relaxing, perming, high heat, sun exposure, friction and rough brushing can lift or weaken its outer layer. Hair may then feel rough, tangle easily, split or snap at different lengths. Frequent washing with a drying product can add to the sensation, especially when the scalp is also irritated. New dryness that affects the hair close to the roots, or hair changes alongside skin or general symptoms, may point to a contributor that deserves clinical review.

Pause bleaching, relaxing and other harsh chemical services while the hair recovers. Use lukewarm water, a gentle cleanser and conditioner after washing. Detangle from the ends upward with a wide-toothed comb, and blot rather than rub with a towel. Keep heat low, use it less often and avoid tight styles that pull on fragile strands. Trim visibly split ends if helpful; trimming does not change follicle growth but can limit further splitting along the shaft. A clinician can discuss hair supplement therapy when diet, symptoms or examination suggest a nutritional concern.

Seek assessment for rapid change, breakage with scalp pain or inflammation, patchy loss, smooth bald areas, or hair that is coming out from the root as well as snapping. Arrange review if dryness persists after removing obvious irritants, or if it occurs with fatigue, unusual cold or heat sensitivity, weight change or skin changes. These clues can help identify a problem beyond cosmetic shaft damage.

Does my hair look damaged along the shaft or is there shedding from the root? Could my scalp, medicines, diet or general health contribute? Which products and tests, if any, would be sensible for me?