Hi Amy,
Keep in mind that when hair is damaged past a certain point, it can not be repaired and can only be softened and moisturized so looks and feels better. In some cases, the best approach is to have the damaged parts removed and start over. Not always a wonderful option but sometimes the only one, if hair is terribly damaged.
Some products that have been proven to help strengthen hair....but not necessarily repair it from its permanent damage I have listed below. Please keep in mind that One Size Does Not Fit All...so these are general recommendations......some may or may not have cone products:
Joico K-Pak Reconstructor has actually been proven to help strenghten strands, as much as that is possible. Not all conditioners will help strengthen. Some will help to "temporarily" repair the tiny tips and tears in the cuticles but will not necessarily add back strength.
Also....
Paul Brown Resurrect, Kukui Nut Oil & Protein Flora Complex penetrates the hair's shaft & minimizes moisture evaporation while nuturing the hair's structural integrity, rebuilds hair w/intensity, leaving it strengthened, protected & voluminous w/out feeling coated or yucky.
Philip Pelusi - Long Gev Ity Conditioner - This product was designed by Philip specifically to help grow longer, stronger manes. Keeps longer hair healthy and attractive, while achieving volume. Protects longer and older hair, especially at the ends. |
- Smooths hair shaft improving shine, texture and feel.
- Excellent for long hair or hair that is growing out to a longer length.
- Makes hair more pliable and flexible.
- Smooths and strengthens older and weaker hair.
- Protects against split ends.
- Penetrates hair fiber, replaces lipid structure, limits damage from brushing and styling. Replicates the natural lipids in the hair structure to bind moisture deep inside the hair shaft. These lipid structures are created when the follicle makes the hair strand but production decreases as we and our hair ages.
- Super strength sunscreens prevent hair color fadage
Robert Hallowell Love That Shine Elixer was specifically designed by Robert to help reconstruct damaged strands. Robert works with a lot of actresses who develop "celebrity hair" which means incredibly damaged from constant coloring, extending and chemically treating. Robert has said that some of his celeb clients with damaged hair have seen better hair over time when using the Elixer.
I have personally had great luck with the Aveda products such as the Cherry Almond Bark & Deep Penetrating Hair Revitalizer. The Deep Penetrating really works for my hair when I alternate with other deep conditioners. The Curessence Damage Relief Conditioner always makes my naturally dry hair feel really good. As does PhytoSesame and PhytoKarite Deep Conditioner.
Again....one size does not fit all. Try to go with products that you can try at the smallest sizes and take your time trying various formulas. It took me literally 5 years to finally find the best possible hair care product mix for me and my hair. And even then, it still changes a little depending on the time of year, my stress levels and other factors.
Also...if you are dealing with hair breakage, I would suggest that you go with air drying for awhile. If you feel the need for straight strands, I would suggest using the largest sponge rollers you can find with a hood dryer. Using a blow dryer and/or brush with hot tools such as irons, will only weaken hair further. |
------------- That which doesn't kill you makes you stronger or drives you totally insane. :-)
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