How to Repair Chemically Damaged Hair isn’t just a question—it’s a journey many of us have faced after years of coloring, heat styling, or experimenting with new trends. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt frustrated by brittle strands, dull texture, or split ends, you’re not alone—I’m right there with you.
This post is here to guide you through understanding the effects of chemical damage, how to assess your hair’s current condition, and the steps you can take to repair it. From essential routines to game-changing products, I’ll walk you through exactly how to transform your hair into its healthiest, most vibrant version.
This post is all about how to repair chemically damaged hair.
You can watch the video here:
Start with a Hair Assessment
Before you can repair your hair, you need to understand its current state. I have a blog post of all the questions to ask to assess your hair that you can check out here.
But here is how I assessed my hair with those questions:
- Scalp Health:
My scalp is pretty balanced, but to prevent product buildup and clogged hair follicles, I use a clarifying shampoo regularly.- Tip: If you notice oiliness or flakes, it may be time to add a clarifying treatment to your routine.
- Hair Porosity and Condition:
- My hair is high porosity due to heat styling and occasional bleaching. It tends to feel dry and frizzy, especially with hard water challenges.
- Quick Fix: Focus on hydration and frizz-smoothing products.
- Split Ends and Breakage:
- Bleaching has left me with breakage and elasticity issues in some areas. Regular trims or hair dusting can help manage split ends.
- Pro Tip: Split ends can’t be repaired, so maintaining your hair’s health is crucial.
Build Your Hair Repair Routine
Once you know your hair’s needs, it’s time to create a repair plan.
Here’s what I’m doing:
1. Prioritize Scalp Health
A healthy scalp is the foundation for strong, healthy hair. My go-to products:
- Fable and Mane Pre-Wash Hair Oil (newer to my routine)
- Apply 1 dropper to your scalp, massage it in, and leave it on for 5 minutes before washing.
- Divi Scalp Serum
- Apply 3/4 dropper to areas and massage in after washing or at least once a day.
2. Use a Clarifying Shampoo
Clarifying shampoos remove buildup and keep your scalp clean. My favorites:
- Color Wow Color Security Shampoo
- My Way Hair DNA Detoxifying Shampoo
3. Repair Bonds and Hydrate
For damaged and bleached hair, bond-repairing products are game changers.
- My Way Hair DNA Enhance Shampoo and Leave in Conditioner (Use the leave in bond conditoner after shower once a week)
- Glimmr Superfruit Hair Mask (10-minute treatment for hydration, softness, and shine) (Use the mask once a week when not using the bond repair treatment)
Finish with Post-Shower Care
Healthy hair doesn’t stop at the shower. After washing, I use:
- Pureology and Sauce Leave-In Conditioner for detangling and protection.
- My Way Hair DNA Hair Repair Oil for hydration and smoothness.
**I’ll be limiting heat but if I do heat style my hair, I will always use a heat protectant!
Non-Hair Wash Nights
On the nights that I don’t wash my hair, I will always use my scalp serum and alternate between my serum cream and hair oil
- Scalp serum
- Alternate nights of serum cream and hair oil
- Always sleep in a loose high bun or heatless curls with silk bonnet
Quick Tips for Maintaining Healthy Hair
- Practice Hair Dusting: Trim split ends regularly to keep your hair looking healthy and prevent further breakage. I’ll be doing this once a month
- Wash Less Frequently: Over-washing can strip natural oils, so aim for 2–3 washes per week. I usually wash my hair 2 times a week
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and eat a balanced diet (with enough protein) to support hair health from within.
Product Recommendations
These are the products that I will be using on my journey to repair my chemically damaged hair and here are some other recommendations
Hair Products:
My Way Hair DNA:
- Detox Shampoo
- Enhance Shampoo
- Enhance Conditioner
- Leave In Conditioner
- Repair Oil
- Fable and Mane Hair Oil
- Pureology Leave in Conditioner
- Sauce Leave in Conditioner
- Glimmr Hair Mask
- NYMs Hair Serum Cream
- Divi Scalp Serum
Other Mentioned Products:
Repairing chemically damaged hair takes time, but with the right tools and consistent effort, you can revive your strands and restore their natural beauty. Focus on building a Haircare routine for damaged hair that includes nourishing steps like using a pre-wash hair oil to protect and strengthen, hydrating hair masks for deep moisture, and bond repair hair products to rebuild your hair’s structure.
Don’t overlook the importance of your scalp—healthy hair starts here. Incorporate scalp health tips like gentle exfoliation and regular use of the best clarifying shampoo for buildup to ensure a fresh foundation for your hair care.
Finally, trim split ends regularly and treat your strands to products tailored for repair and hydration. By following these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to learning how to repair chemically damaged hair and embracing healthier, stronger hair.
What are your favorite tips for repairing damaged hair? Share them in the comments below! or DM on Instagram.
XO, Annie
