Chemical treatments—like colouring, perming, relaxing, or straightening—can work wonders in transforming your look. But they also alter the hair’s structure, leaving it more vulnerable to dryness, breakage, and damage.
If you've recently treated your hair, it's essential to adopt a gentle care routine to keep it healthy and vibrant. Here’s a guide to the top do’s and don’ts for maintaining chemically treated hair.
Do: Use Sulphate-Free and Moisturising Products
After a chemical treatment, your hair needs hydration and gentle cleansing. Sulphates can strip your hair of natural oils and exacerbate dryness. Opt for sulphate-free shampoos and conditioners packed with moisturising ingredients like argan oil, shea butter, or keratin.
Don’t: Wash Your Hair Too Frequently
Washing too often can lead to excessive dryness and cause your treatment to fade faster. Try to limit washing to 2–3 times per week, and always use lukewarm water to prevent further dehydration.
Do: Deep Condition Regularly
Chemically treated hair benefits greatly from weekly deep conditioning or hair masks. These treatments help restore moisture, strengthen the hair shaft, and reduce breakage. Look for products with protein and ceramides to rebuild weakened strands.
Don’t: Use Heat Styling Tools Excessively
Blow dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can intensify damage to chemically treated hair. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant spray beforehand and keep tools on a low to medium setting.
Do: Get Regular Trims
Split ends can travel up the hair shaft, causing more damage over time. Regular trims every 6–8 weeks help keep your ends healthy and maintain the shape and look of your style.
Don’t: Overlap Treatments Too Soon
Spacing out chemical treatments is crucial. Give your hair time to recover—ideally 6–8 weeks—before applying another process. Overlapping colours, perms, or relaxers can result in severe breakage and even hair loss.
Do: Protect Your Hair from the Sun and Chlorine
UV rays and pool chemicals can fade colour and dry out chemically treated hair. Wear a hat or scarf in the sun, and use a protective leave-in conditioner or swim cap when swimming in chlorinated water.
Don’t: Skip Professional Advice
DIY solutions can sometimes do more harm than good. Always consult with a professional hairstylist before applying any new treatment or trying corrective colour work. A pro can recommend the right aftercare products and help prevent long-term damage.
Final Thoughts
With the right care routine, chemically treated hair can look healthy, shiny, and beautiful. The key lies in being gentle, staying moisturised, and knowing when to seek professional support. Follow these do’s and don’ts to help your hair bounce back and continue looking its best.