Summer-Damaged Hair? Health Expert Reveals Miracle Ingredient to Repair It!

Hair is often the first casualty of environmental damage. That’s why it’s common to notice that your hair looks worse for wear after a summer vacation, having been subjected to the sun, chlorine, and sea salt. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to address this.

First off, do you know how to spot damaged hair? According to Stéphanie Soulé, a life and health sciences expert and the head of scientific communication at Typology, the signs include a lack of shine and a dull appearance, color changes, roughness to the touch, frizziness, overall fragility, or split ends.

To restore your hair to its ideal state, the secret lies in using products containing a specific type of ingredient: cationic agents (such as Behenamidopropyl Dimethylamine). These ingredients work like a magnet, targeting damaged areas of the hair to smooth down the cuticle, reduce static electricity, and make detangling a breeze. They are key players in reviving hair fibers. For even greater effectiveness, these agents are typically combined with other valuable ingredients. For instance, oils and biomimetic lipids (like ceramides and squalane) help replenish the hair’s protective film, enhancing softness and shine. Proteins (such as plant keratin) or amino acids fill in gaps to strengthen the hair and make it more resistant to breakage.

Once your hair is repaired, it’s crucial to protect it throughout the year. How? Shield it from the sun with protective hair care products or a hat. Opt for shampoos made with mild surfactants (such as Lauryl Glucoside or Coco-Betaine). These cleansing agents effectively clean the hair without stripping away the natural lipid layer that protects the fibers.

However, keep in mind that significant damage can often be permanent. The only real remedies are time, a good haircut, and, most importantly, adopting preventive measures to avoid further harm.