Two words: Chemical haircut. It’s the tragic (but very accurate) name for when your hair starts to break after you've over-processed it with color. Speaking from personal experience, we know it can be incredibly frustrating—heartbreaking, even. And though it can take months to rehab your strands, there are a few things you can do in the interim to help disguise those short, uneven pieces that stick out.
Help! How Can I Hide Hair That's Broken from Color?
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Published Aug 11, 2017
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Get An Actual Cut
If you have long hair, you’re likely going to need a cut—or, at the very least, a good trim. Though it can be hard to let go of the extra length now, getting rid of any damaged ends will prevent any breakage from traveling upward and causing you to lose even more hair later.
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Rethink Your Styling Products
Anything with the words “texturizing” or “beach” on it should be replaced with hydrating creams and oils. Processed hair is already dry to begin with and needs more moisture to behave. Starting at the ends, work your product of choice through damp hair and use the palms of your hands to smooth down any of the broken bits up top to finish.
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Change Your Part
If you normally wear your hair down the center, try a deep side part to weigh down (and conceal) any shorter pieces. If you always part it to one side, try switching it to the opposite one. Tip: Do this while your hair is still damp so it’s easier to coerce it into place.
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Try An Updo Or A Braid
An artfully disheveled bun is a good go-to for uneven strands (and unwashed ones) as it’s supposed to look a bit messy, and a chunky plait (or two) can hide any shorter pieces. With either of these styles, keep them loose so there’s no pressure being placed on your delicate hair.
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Scale Back (or Avoid) Using Heat
If you really can’t give up your blow dryer, make sure to always use a protective spray first. And you know that nozzle attachment that came with the dryer? It helps to direct the airflow so it dries faster—and you’re not blowing your hair around everywhere. Keep it pointing downward and at least a few inches away from your head to get smooth results.
