Damaged Hair Screaming SOS? Here's 6 Ways to Revive It

I'll be the first to admit that I can’t leave the house without using heat styling tools—even if it’s just a couple of swipes with my straightener to calm down frizz. Unfortunately, as I know all too well, that can lead to hair that feels dry and brittle. Add on the fact that I'm incredibly inconsistent with using protecting products and I'm doomed for damage. But, dry hair doesn't only come from excessive styling tools use—it can come from swimming in pools, laying in the sun for too long, washing your hair too often, and poor nutrition. Thankfully, celebrity hair stylist Mark Townsend, a Dove spokesperson who’s worked with Dakota Johnson, Gal Gadot, and the Olsen twins, is sharing his tips for how to treat dry, brittle hair from home.

1.Use conditioner and hair masks.

This may seem like a no brainer, but Townsend says he’s often surprised at how few people actually use conditioner. The point of shampooing your hair is to take away all of the dirt and grime, but you’re also taking away all of the moisture. “What’s struck me is how many people don’t use conditioner because they’re afraid it’s going to weigh down their hair,” he says. “Make sure that you’re replacing the loss of moisture and trying to get as many ingredients that can help rebuild the hair from the inside as possible.”

To do this, Townsend recommends looking for conditioners with nut oils—like coconut, almond and macadamia nut—because they’re “full of all those lipids and fatty acids that can actually help rebuild the hair.” These ingredients will also work to seal off the hair cuticle, which will lock in all of that newfound moisture.

“When you’re applying your conditioner, start at the bottom two or three inches and then work your way up,” says Townsend. “And while you’re in the shower, comb it through to make sure it’s distributed evenly.” In addition to making sure that it’s evenly coating your hair, Townsend also advises women to leave it on, or to substitute in a hair mask, for fiveto 10 minutes at least once per week.

Mark Townsend's Recommendations

2. Eat healthy and take your vitamins.

A healthy diet benefits your entire body, and your hair is no exception. “Our diets are always the best [way to improve your hair health],” says Townsend. “When you’re not getting the right nutrients it really does show in your hair.”

If you're wondering exactly what to eat, Elizabeth Cunnane Phillips, trichologist (an expert at scalp and hair health) at the Philip Kingsley New York Trichological Clinic has previously given Women's Health the following suggestions: Because hair is made up of a protein called keratin, prioritizing protein is key—think of lentils, eggs, and poultry. Salmon, trout, and sardines are all rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, which promotes scalp health. Beta-carotene, present in sweet potatoes, apricots, and carrots, is another ingredient to look out for because it contains vitamin A, which strengthens hair. Lastly, vitamin C available in blueberries, spinach, kale, swiss chard, and broccoli is great for supporting blood vessels supplying nutrients to the follicle.

In addition to eating healthy, Townsend recommends taking a multivitamin that includes biotin.

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3. Protect your hair.

Another step that’s easy to implement is using a protectant spray before using heat styling tools. “There’s actual heat conductors in heat protectant sprays now to distribute the heat so that you don’t just burn one section over and over,” says Townsend, recommending the the Dove Smooth & Shine Heat Protectant, as well as the Oribe Royal Blowout Heat Styling Spray.

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Also, if you’re going for a swim, make sure you’re taking extra care. “Wet your hair and then coat it with a conditioner before you get in the pool or salt water,” says Townsend. “I tell my clients before they go on vacation to take coconut oil, dilute it in a spray bottle and then just keep applying it throughout the day.”

4. Get regular haircuts.

If you’re one of those people wary about frequent haircuts because they love their long hair or they want to grow out their locks, just focus on trims. “Haircuts are important, even if it’s just to dust off the ends and freshen up the layers,” says Townsend. “Most of my clients really only get their hair cut three to four times a year.”

Townsend specifies that the hair grows about a quarter to half an inch each month, "so if you take off a quarter to half an inch every three months, you’re getting rid of the damage, but still growing out your hair," he says.

5. Don't put the heat setting on your tools too high.

Making sure that you’re using your heat tools correctly is just as important as protecting your hair. First and foremost, check that heat setting.“If you have an iron that is adjustable, turn down the heat setting,” says Townsend. “I never try to go above 350-375 degrees.”

Next, Townsend says he notices that a lot of clients will try to straighten too much hair at once. “What’s happening is you’re really just burning that top layer and the bottom layer,” explains Townsend. “The heat hasn’t even had a chance to get to all of the hairs in the middle.” Instead, Townsend suggests straightening or curling small sections, which will result in healthier hair and faster styling results.

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6. Swap out your pillowcase

“It sounds small, but cotton absorbs moisture—no matter how high the thread count is,” says Townsend. “Either a sateen or a satin pillowcase—silk doesn’t breath so I find that sateen and satin are a little bit better.” If you’re hair is brittle and prone to getting super tangled, this will be a game-changer. “It’s going to lead to a lot less tangles throughout the night, especially if you toss and turn" Townsend says.