If you're plagued by dry, brittle hair and split ends, you can remedy it without spending a fortune for expensive hair treatments. By following some basic hair care guidelines and practicing healthy lifestyle habits, you can greatly improve the condition of damaged hair and banish the majority of your split ends. With some essential hair care products and practices, you’ll be able to grow stronger, shinier hair that radiates health and beauty.

Get your hair professionally trimmed. Schedule a trim every six to eight weeks to remove split and broken ends. If you currently have a lot of split ends, you may need a few inches cut off your hair, but after that, your stylist will probably be able to remove the split ends by cutting just an inch.

Read more about how to repair damaged hair without cutting it.

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Use nourishing shampoo and conditioner. You can improve damaged hair by using products that are formulated especially for dry and brittle hair, offering moisture and extra protection. Ask your stylist for shampoo and conditioner suggestions, or try moisturizing products from your local drugstore.

Read more about home remedies for very dry hair.

Protect your hair from environmental damage by keeping it sheltered from the heat, sun, wind and cold. Cover up your head when you go out in extreme weather. Use spray-in conditioner for extra protection if you will be outdoors for extended periods.

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Eat nutritious foods that improve hair health. Foods with antioxidants help fight the damaging effects of the environment, pollution and aging, so stock up on vitamin-rich foods such as berries, oranges, avocados and leafy greens. Also, be sure to eat enough protein, as it is the main component of hair.

Avoid heat styling and chemical processing; they cause split ends and damaged hair. Don't use curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers if you don't have to, and if you do, be sure to spray in a leave-in conditioner before you style your hair to protect it. Stay away from hair dyes and bleach, as they cause damage, breakage and dryness.

Tips

Do not brush your hair when it's wet. This causes damage and split ends. Instead, use a comb on your hair when it's wet.

Warnings

If you practice the aforementioned tips and still have dry, brittle hair or hair loss, consult a physician to check whether you have a health condition such as hypothyroidism.