Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 357 reviews
Hair type
Damaged Hair
Damaged hair typically shows split ends, noticeable breakage, a rough or straw-like texture and reduced shine, often from heat styling, chemical treatments such as colouring or bleaching, or repeated tight styling. It usually feels weaker and tangles more easily than healthy hair of the same underlying type. Products marketed as repairing generally work by temporarily smoothing the hair's outer layer and filling in surface gaps, which improves look and feel rather than reversing the underlying structural damage — the most reliable way to fully remove damage is trimming it off as hair grows out. In the meantime, gentler washing, protein and moisture treatments, and consistent heat protection all help manage the day-to-day condition of hair that is already compromised.
12 products
What to look for
- Protein-containing treatments, which can temporarily strengthen weakened strands
- Moisturising ingredients such as oils and humectants, for the dryness and roughness damage often causes
- Gentler, sulphate-free shampoos and lukewarm rather than hot water
- A heat protectant used every time heat tools are used, since damaged hair is already more vulnerable to further breakage
What to avoid
- Harsh, frequent clarifying washes, which can further weaken hair that is already compromised
- Heat styling without a heat protectant, one of the fastest routes to compounding existing damage
- Over-relying on protein treatments alone, since damaged hair generally needs a balance of protein and moisture rather than one without the other
- Expecting a product to reverse structural damage — trimming is the only way to fully remove it
Products for damaged hair
12 products
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Frequently asked questions
- Can damaged hair actually be repaired?
- Products marketed as repairing generally work by temporarily smoothing the hair's outer layer and filling in surface gaps, improving look and feel rather than reversing the underlying structural damage. The most reliable way to fully remove damage is trimming it off as hair grows out.
- Should damaged hair be washed differently than healthy hair?
- Gentler, sulphate-free shampoos and less frequent washing are commonly recommended, since damaged hair can be more prone to dryness and further weakening from harsh cleansing. Lukewarm rather than hot water also reduces additional stress on already-fragile strands.
This is general information, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.