How To Care For Chemically-Processed Hair

There is no shortage of chemically processed hair treatments available to revamp your mane. You may opt for a keratin smoothing treatment for sleek locks, or a perm to create texture and body. If you’re working with natural hair, the idea of hair relaxers probably piqued your interest so you can achieve super-straight strands. No matter which option you fancy, it’s important to follow a solid hair-care routine to maintain healthy-looking strands. Using the wrong products can leave you with lackluster or damaged locks. If you’re new to the world of chemically processed hair or need a refresher, we’re here to provide some clarity. Ahead, we’re sharing eight tips on how to keep your chemically treated hair in mint condition.

1. USE THE RIGHT HAIR-CARE SYSTEM

To lay the groundwork, swap out your go-to essentials for a hair-care system that is formulated for chemically processed hair. Grab the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Repair & Defend Conditioner to get the ball rolling. This sulfate-free pair strengthens and defends hair against damage. It’s also a fantastic pick for those with color-treated strands.

If you’re working with keratin treated strands, you’ll need to up the ante with the L’Oréal Paris EverSleek Keratin Caring Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverSleek Keratin Caring Conditioner. This duo boasts a sulfate-free formula that is designed with chemically straightened hair in mind to repair, smooth, and improve the overall texture of your strands.

2. MAKE HAIR MASKS YOUR BFF

All hair types can benefit from some extra love, and chemically treated hair is no exception. This is where a hair mask can work its magic. If you’re looking to boost your strands with moisture or shine, this shower essential can come to the rescue. You can also rely on a mask to address brassy hair or damaged locks. Head on over to our article, How To Use a Hair Mask The Right Way, to learn more.

3. WASH WITH LUKEWARM WATER

Hot water can feel like the ultimate delight in the shower, but it can do more harm than good to your locks. Super-hot H2O strips your hair of its natural oils, leaving you with a dull and dry mane. Keep things simple and turn down the dial with every wash session.

4. DON’T SKIP OUT ON TRIMS

Getting regular trims can go a long way with your regimen. You may not be too pleased with the idea of cutting your hair, but broken and split ends can’t help you sport a healthy-looking mane. We recommend getting trims every six to eight weeks to keep your strands in line (literally).

5. MINIMIZE THE USE OF HOT TOOLS

It’s not news that excessive heat usage can wreak havoc on your mane. And when it comes to chemically processed hair, note that heat can interfere with how long your treatment lasts. Your best course of action should be to minimize the heat. Remember, it’s super-easy for hair breakage to rear its ugly head with improper use of your hot tools. Stay on the safe side and only use them once a week. You should always make it a point to add a heat protectant into the equation before styling. The L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle SLEEK IT Straight Iron Heatspray calms frizz, seals in shine, and protects your strands from heat damage.

Editor’s note: Another way to minimize heat in your hair-care routine is to use your hot tools on the lowest heat setting possible. You don’t need to crank up the heat to achieve smooth strands.

6. PROTECT YOUR STRANDS FROM THE SUN

Since sun exposure can take a toll on your color-treated strands, keep a UV protective spray handy. The L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Hairspray Extra Strong Hold with UV Filter gives your hair a clean, shiny finish with the added bonus of UV protection.

A UV protection spray shouldn’t be your only line of defense from the sun. Be sure to wear a broad-brimmed hat or a chic head wrap for another layer of protection. You’ll be able to keep your hair safe without sacrificing style. It’s a win-win.

7. SHIELD YOUR LOCKS AT NIGHT

After a long day, you may want to hop into bed without a second thought. However, you’ll need to protect your locks the right way before you hit the hay. Sleeping on harsh fabrics can cause friction as you toss and turn at night. As a result, hair breakage and moisture loss can become a reality. Stay ahead of the game and switch to a silk or satin pillowcase. You can also opt for a silk or satin scarf to provide your mane with extra protection.

8. BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH YOUR STYLIST

Depending on the chemically processed hair treatment you fancy, you’ll likely have to get touch-ups to keep your look in order. That said, this may not call for a DIY session. Since harsh chemicals are being used to manipulate your locks, it’s always a smart move to trust the pros. After all, hair relaxers require a specific skill set to achieve. Not to mention, some hair color techniques go hand in hand with the use of bleach, which can cause damage. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Trust us, if you leave the touch-ups to your stylist, your strands will thank you.

Next: 10 Beauty Editor-Approved Hair Care Tips