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We often put our hair through a lot. Whether it's forgetting the heat protector and overdoing it with the blow dryer or curling iron (using high heat on full power is never the best idea, folks). For those of us who enjoy changing up our style, we might end up using one (or more) chemical treatments, and let's face it, we all probably lean on dry shampoo more than we should.
All of these habits can gradually damage our hair, but how can you know when your hair needs serious care? The signs of damaged hair can range from being pretty obvious to more subtle, so it’s important to stay alert to these clues.
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Cavan Images/Getty Images1. Hair Lacks Shine and Bounce
When your hair appears dull and lacks shine, absorbing light instead of reflecting it, that’s often an indication of damage. Healthy hair should be glossy, lively, and smooth to the touch. Tim Lehman, stylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger, notes that chemical treatments and heat styling are usually to blame. He advises, “Give your hair enough time to recover between treatments to avoid overlapping procedures.”
2. You’re Experiencing Breakage
In addition to lifeless, flat hair, watch out for breakage. “Color processing, prolonged sun exposure, or dryness can strip hair of moisture,” explains Taylor Blades, hairstylist and educator for Covet & Mane. “You might see hair breaking off from certain spots or all over. Small pieces may show up in your brush, on your clothes, or when you run your fingers through your hair. This is a clear sign that your hair needs more moisture, and you should use more protective and preventative treatments.”
3. The Ends Are Becoming Thinner
Hair breakage might not be noticeable right away; it could take weeks or even months for the damage to show. The tips of your hair are often the first to reveal the issue, so pay close attention. “Hair from the scalp usually looks and feels healthy, but it can become thinner towards the ends,” explains Lehman. “This is often due to blow-drying or using hot styling tools.” He recommends using heat tools on lower settings and allowing your hair to rest from heat styling as often as you can. A trim also helps maintain healthier ends.
4. Excessive Tangling
Tangling can happen for many reasons, and it’s particularly common for people with fine hair. However, if you notice more frequent tangling, it could be a sign of damage, says David von Cannon, celebrity stylist and ambassador for Better Natured. Tangling occurs in dry, damaged hair because the cuticle becomes rough, creating more friction. To address this, try nourishing and hydrating products that smooth the cuticle and reduce tangling.
5. Lack of Growth
Ever wondered why your hair doesn’t seem to grow or stay the same length for ages? Blades explains that this could mean your hair is in poor condition. It suggests that hair is breaking at the ends, which can happen if your strands aren’t getting enough moisture, are damaged, or haven’t been trimmed regularly. “Regardless of whether you wash your hair daily or weekly, your hair needs moisture, especially from the middle to the ends,” Blades says. “Use a moisturizing cream or oil on the mid to ends of your hair daily. If you live in a dry climate, repeat this routine up to twice a day.”
6. Hair Feels Crunchy or Stiff When Wet
Watch out for a crunchy texture when your hair is freshly washed. Lehman points out this is a clear sign your hair is unhealthy. “Exposure to elements like the sun, saltwater, and chlorine can leave your hair feeling crunchy when wet and dry and brittle after styling,” he says. “A good trim with your stylist might be the best solution, or you could try a nourishing treatment mask for your hair.”
7. Your Hair Feels Fragile
Brittle hair looks lackluster, feels dry, and easily breaks off. This can happen due to chemical, sun, or heat damage. However, Blades points out there’s another hidden cause. “Products labeled as ‘fortifying,’ ‘strengthening,’ or ‘repairing’ often contain high levels of protein,” she explains. While these can help with repairs, overusing them can actually backfire. “Excess protein prevents hair from holding moisture, causing it to become dry and brittle.” Always follow the instructions on the product labels.
8. Hair is Difficult to Manage
Bad hair days should be occasional, not a regular struggle. If you find yourself constantly battling unruly strands, this could indicate that your hair is damaged. Healthy hair is soft, smooth, and strong. It shines, moves naturally, and has a pleasant bounce. If you’re having trouble managing your hair—from combing challenges to curls that won’t hold—it may be time to give your strands some TLC. Take a break from heat styling and chemical treatments and treat your hair to nourishing, high-quality care products.
