Brittle Hair: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Brittle hair is a condition in which hair becomes dry, frizzy, dull, has split ends, and is sometimes prone to breakage. Chemical treatments, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, and other factors can cause brittle hair, which can be fixed by gentle hair care and lifestyle changes.
Symptoms of Brittle Hair
People whose hair is brittle may notice the following characteristics:
- Dry: Brittle hair lacks moisture, making it feel dry and rough.
- Frizzy: It tends to become frizzy and difficult to manage.
- Dull: Brittle hair lacks shine and vibrancy.
- Split Ends: Frequent splitting of hair ends is a common sign of brittleness
- Breakage: Hair snaps or breaks easily, often with minimal force, due to weakened strands.
- Weakness: Hair feels fragile and lacks elasticity, breaking when pulled or styled.
- Tangled Hair: Hair becomes knotted easily, making it difficult to comb or manage.
- Increased Hair Loss: Brittle hair may lead to more shedding, with strands falling out during washing or brushing.
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionCauses of Brittle Hair
Several factors contribute to brittle hair:
Excessive Heat Styling:
- Frequent use of hair straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers can damage hair cuticles, leading to brittleness.
- Preventive Aspect: Limit heat styling and use heat protectants when styling.
Chemical Treatments:
- Harsh chemicals in relaxers, hair colour, and bleach weaken hair fibers.
- Preventive Aspect: Opt for professional treatments and limit chemical processes
Overwashing:
- Washing hair too often strips away natural oils, leaving hair dry and brittle.
- Preventive Aspect: Wash hair less frequently and focus shampoo on the scalp rather than the entire length
Heat Exposure:
- Excessive heat from styling tools or dry air (e.g., cold weather or air-conditioned environments) can dehydrate hair.
- Preventive Aspect: Protect hair from extreme temperatures and use a swim cap in chlorinated water.
Nutritional Deficiencies:
- Malnutrition or eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa) can affect hair health.
- Preventive Aspect: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
Hormonal Imbalances:
- Thyroid disease or other hormonal issues may lead to brittle hair.
- Preventive Aspect: Address underlying hormonal imbalances with medical guidance
Dry Hair Diagnosing
- Rough Texture: Hair feels dry, brittle, and lacks smoothness.
- Split Ends: Frayed or broken ends indicate lack of moisture.
- Frizziness: Hair is unruly and difficult to control.
- Breakage: Hair breaks easily when combed or styled.
- Itchy Scalp: Dry, flaky, or irritated scalp contributes to dry hair.
- Lack of Elasticity: Hair lacks stretch and breaks under tension.
- Environmental Exposure: Sun, wind, or chlorine can worsen dryness.
- Hair Care Routine: Overuse of harsh products or heat styling may cause dryness.
If symptoms persist, consult a dermatologist or hair specialist for further advice.
Treatment Options for Brittle Hair
Gentle Hair Care
- Wash hair less frequently to retain natural oils.
- Use a mild shampoo and concentrate it on the scalp.
- Condition after every wash, focusing on mid-strand to ends.
- Choose hair products that suit your hair type (e.g., chemically treated hair).
Lifestyle Changes
- Limit heat styling and chemical treatments.
- Protect hair from sun exposure and dry air.
- Stay hydrated and maintain a nutritious diet.
- Consider topical or oral medications if needed
Nutrition and Supplements
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep hair moisturized from within.
- Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet: Include vitamins and minerals in your diet for stronger, healthier hair.
- Consider Supplements: Take supplements like biotin or omega-3 fatty acids to improve hair strength.
Professional Treatments for Brittle Hair
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Use deep conditioning masks weekly to restore moisture and nourishment.
- Keratin Treatments: Try professional keratin treatments to smooth and strengthen brittle hair.
- Consult a Dermatologist: Seek professional advice for underlying issues affecting your hair.
Additional BrittleHair Care Tips
- Avoid Harsh Towel Drying: Gently pat hair dry with a towel to prevent breakage.
- Use a Wide-Tooth Comb: Detangle hair with a wide-tooth comb or fingers to reduce damage.
- Avoid Tight Hairstyles: Don’t pull hair tightly in styles like ponytails to prevent strain and breakage.
Tips for Black Hair
Black hair is prone to dryness and damage. Here are some additional tips:
- Use hot oil treatments twice a month.
- Limit relaxers to every two months for new growth.
- Straighten hair at low temperatures using ceramic tools.
- Avoid tight hairstyles (braids, weaves, cornrows).
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentDiet for Healthy Hair and Preventing Brittle Hair
Maintaining a nutritious diet is essential for promoting healthy hair and preventing brittleness. Here are some dietary tips to support your hair health:
Include Enough Protein:
- Protein is a crucial component of hair structure. Include lean protein sources such as fish, beans, eggs, and lean meats in your diet.
Rich in Silica:
- Silica contributes to hair strength and thickness. Foods like whole grains, oats, and brown rice are good sources of silica.
Copper and Zinc:
- Copper and zinc play a role in hair health. Incorporate foods like nuts, seeds, and legumes to ensure sufficient intake.
Vitamins C and E:
- These vitamins have antioxidant properties that protect hair follicles. Citrus fruits, berries, and nuts are rich in vitamins C & E.
Vitamin A and Beta-Carotene:
- Vitamin A supports sebum production, which keeps the scalp moisturised. Carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach provide beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin
Boost Vitamin B Intake:
- B vitamins (especially biotin) are essential for healthy hair growth. Include whole grains, eggs, and leafy greens in your diet.
Ensure Adequate Iron Intake:
- Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss. Consume iron-rich foods like red meat, lentils, and dark leafy greens.
Remember that gentle care, proper nutrition, and addressing underlying issues can significantly improve hair health and reduce brittleness. If you continue to experience brittle hair despite at-home treatments, consult a Trichologist for personalised advice.
Home Remedies for Dry(Brittle)Hair
- Coconut Oil Treatment: Apply warm coconut oil to hair to deeply moisturize and strengthen strands.
- Aloe Vera Mask: Use aloe vera gel to hydrate and repair damaged hair.
- Honey and Olive Oil Mask: Mix honey and olive oil for a nourishing hair mask to restore moisture.
- Avocado Hair Mask: Apply mashed avocado to hair for deep conditioning and added vitamins.
- Egg Yolk Treatment: Use egg yolks to provide proteins that strengthen brittle hair.
- Banana and Honey Mask: Blend banana with honey for a natural mask to nourish and moisturize.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Rinse with diluted apple cider vinegar to balance the scalp and add shine.
- Tea Rinse: Use chamomile or green tea to promote hair health and reduce brittleness.
- Castor Oil Massage: Massage castor oil into the scalp to improve hair growth and prevent hair loss.
- Yogurt and Honey Mask: Combine yogurt and honey for a hydrating treatment that softens brittle hair.
