Help with hair breakage

Breakage occurs along the hair shaft, so you may see short pieces, split ends, uneven length, or white points where strands have snapped. It differs from shedding, in which a complete hair releases from the follicle. Frequent bleaching, relaxing, colouring, hot tools, tight styles, rough towel drying, and detangling can weaken the shaft. Persistent scale, crusting, tenderness, itch, or broken hairs close to the scalp can point to a scalp problem such as Scalp Ringworm. Repeated pulling from tight braids, extensions, buns, or coverings can contribute to Traction Alopecia.

Loosen styles, vary where tension sits, and remove extensions if the scalp hurts. Limit high heat and use the lowest effective setting; avoid overlapping chemical treatments. Apply conditioner to lengths, detangle gently from the ends upward, and use a wide-tooth comb. Pat hair dry rather than rubbing it, and consider a smooth pillow surface. A trim can remove split ends but does not change the health of new growth. A clinician can examine the scalp and decide whether additional treatment is needed.

Book an assessment for smooth or patchy loss, scalp pain, inflammation, heavy scale, pus, or broken hairs with a spreading rash. Seek prompt care if a tender scalp problem is worsening quickly or if several people sharing close contact have a new scaly scalp rash. Evaluation is useful when breakage continues after handling changes or is accompanied by reduced density.

Ask whether this is shaft breakage, shedding, or both; whether your scalp shows infection or traction; which styling practices should stop first; whether tests are needed; and how to protect new growth while the cause is being addressed.