Hair Breakage

Published 7/2/19, 4:53 AM by Fleur Scalp Care

Hair Breakage

What is Hair Breakage

Hair breakage is an annoying situation that can happen to anyone and hair type, whether straight or curly. It is when the hair shaft breaks and results in split ends and shorter hair strands, more commonly occurring in dry scalps and damaged hair.

Did you know that our hair is remarkably strong? In fact, stronger than a steel wire of the same diameter. It is also very elastic, having able to stretch up to 30% of its length before breaking!

Hair breakage can happen for a range of reasons, from using unsuitable hair products to deficiency in certain nutrients, and also stress.

What Causes Hair Breakage?

Let's take a closer look at how our hair anatomy works here. Cuticles are the outermost part of the hair shaft. The cuticles in healthy hair have overlapping scales (somewhat like a windows blind) that strengthens and keeps the strand together. It also serves to protect the inner hair shaft and locks in the moisture when it's closed.

The strength and elasticity of our hair depends on its moisture content within. Moisture allows our hair to swell and contract. In other words, the hair is able to stretch and 'bounce back' to its original length without breaking.

When the cuticles are opened, moisture is easily lost resulting in hair that lacks moisture and protection; dry and brittle hair that easily snaps.

Maintaining the hydration in the hair is important for achieving healthy hair. There are some treatments that can reduce the hair's moisture quickly, especially if done frequently.

Hair colouring including bleaching and highlighting
Heat styling such as hair straightening and perming
External exposure like UV damage or chlorine

Apart from heat damage, chemical damage is probably worse. It can damage the protein structure and structural bonds of the hair. Chemical damage also raises the cuticles, leaving the hair more vulnerable to damages.

How to Manage Hair Breakage?

Since moisture improves the strength and elasticity of the hair, keeping the hair hydrated is key to reducing hair breakage. A good hair care routine of shampooing and conditioning as well as deep-conditioning masks can help to smooth and seal the cuticles, locking in the moisture and protecting the hair. You should also try to avoid frequent treatments that can dry up your hair quicker. But if you have to, be sure to take the steps to moisturize and nourish your hair after.

Trimming split ends early can also prevent the splits from travelling up the hair shaft, causing your hair to break off easily.

You can also get started with our Foundation Treatment - customised to help reverse any damages, nourish and provide the optimal foundation for healthy hair. Book your appointment here.