Exactly How to Rehab Your Over-Processed Hair

If you color your hair, you know that there's always the chance that your locks might get over-processed. Which in turn can lead to damage — and that's never fun. So it's always important to first find a stylist who knows their stuff.

Brittany Cormier, a master stylist at The Beauty Studio, makes it a priority to have an in-depth conversation with all her clients before she even swipes on the first bit of color. In her consultations, she stresses that many hair colors may take multiple sessions to achieve — especially when going from a darker tone to one that's lighter to avoid over-processing.

"Over-processed hair is plainly fatigued from aggressive handling," says Cormier, "From brushing, blow-drying, coloring, straightening, and curling, hair can only take so much." She explains that this type of "aggressive handling" can physically damage the cuticle and bond of the hair strands leaving it very brittle and dry. That usually translates to a not-so-fun frizzy look (not to mention, potential breakage).

So, how's a girl supposed to rehab her damaged hair? Well, in order for your mane to be in pristine condition, it's important that your strands have an equal balance of protein and moisture, according to Cormier. "A good leave-in conditioner and thermal protectants are a must," she says, "Look for serums that are restorative and ask your stylist about conditioning services he or she may offer in-salon as well as products you should use at home." (Don't go overboard though: Cormier mentions that it's possible to overdose on protein-based repairing treatments, so be sure to use as directed.)

Keep reading to see some of our favorite hair repairing products!

Image via Imaxtree