Hey there, beautiful souls!
We all want fabulous, head-turning hair, but pesky hair breakage can sometimes feel like the ultimate nemesis. Fear not! In this blog, we'll dive deep into the 11 common causes of hair breakage and reveal the secret to revitalizing your locks: the LOC or LCO method. Plus, we'll chat about the incredible benefits of working with a natural hair stylist. So, grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and let's embark on a journey to healthier, happier hair!
1. Over styling
The constant use of heat tools, tight hairstyles, and harsh hair products can weaken your strands. Rubber-band styles with added hair are an example of a style that can cause potential breakage due to the tension from the rubber bands as well as the braiding hair. High-tension hairstyles are the leading cause of traction alopecia. Traction alopecia results from continuous pulling force on the hair roots. It usually occurs in women of African descent who have tight, spiral-curling hair. Traction alopecia is preventable.
The solution? Embrace natural styles and give your hair a break. It is always recommended that our clients book a quarterly appointment with Mo to have their scalps checked for damage.
2. Lack of Moisture
Dry hair is prone to breakage. when combined with improper combing or detangling it will create severe breakage.
Enter the LOC or LCO method for proper moisture/hydration:
Liquid (L): Start by applying water or a water-based leave-in conditioner to hydrate your hair.
Oil (O): Follow up with a natural oil like coconut or argan oil to seal in that moisture.
Cream (C): Finish with a creamy, moisture-rich product to lock in all the goodness.
This method is perfect for high-porosity (easily absorbed) product hair. If you have low-porosity (harder to absorb) hair you will need to add an element of heat such as steam or warm the product to open the hair follicle.
The proper way to comb through or detangle your hair is to start at the end of your hair follicle and comb toward the roots of the hair.
3. Poor Diet
Your hair craves nutrients like biotin, vitamins A and E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Opt for a balanced diet rich in these hair-loving nutrients.
4. Overwashing
Frequent washing strips your hair of its natural oils. Limit washing to a few times a week and use a sulfate-free shampoo. If you work out 3-5 times a week we recommend that you do a co-wash 1-2 times per week and a regular shampoo weekly.
5. Chemical Treatments
Excessive coloring, perms, and relaxing treatments can weaken your hair. Space out these treatments and use protective products. Because chemical treatment strips the oils from the hair and relaxes the natural curl pattern of the hair we commend combining these treatments with intensive hydration treatment or scalp facial to replenish natural oils and balance the scalp pH levels.
6. Using the Wrong Brush
Choose a brush with soft bristles or wide-toothed combs to prevent unnecessary tugging and breakage. When in doubt on what brush you should be using book a consultation with Monique.
7. Stress
Stress affects your overall health, including your hair. Practice relaxation techniques and make self-care a priority. Click Here to see the blog on self-care and relaxation.
8. Bedtime Neglect
Friction between your hair and pillowcase can cause breakage. Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase or bonnet to reduce damage and maintain oil balance.
9. Environmental Factors
UV rays and pollution can damage your hair. Shield your locks with a hat or UV-protective hair products. Swimming is an amazing exercise that can cause severe damage because it is the equivalent of applying bleach to your hair on repeat. It is recommended to add a leave-in conditioner to your hair to protect the follicles and prevent breakage before you get into the pool. We also strongly recommend shampooing and conditioning your hair directly after your swim session.
10. Neglecting Regular Trims
Trimming your hair every 8-12 weeks prevents split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. Trimming is also strongly recommended in between protective styles, and any style that is highly manipulated such as regular twist-outs vs. braids.
Invest in yourself, Tribe. You deserve it. Come on over and let us help you radiate health and wellness from the inside out. Follow us on social media: Facebook, Threads, YouTube, and Instagram, to see our upcoming classes, seminars, and videos.