4 expert-recommended home remedies to repair your damaged, coloured hair

Come on, admit it: changing up your look every now and then is exhilarating.  But, relying on just hair cuts can get boring, really fast. The next step? Getting your hair coloured.

Not only is it convenient, but the right hair colour can even enhance your features and complexion. However, there’s a downside to colouring your hair–one that we are all aware of. Yes, we’re talking about hair damage. 

Here’s how colouring your hair causes damage

“Typically, permanent hair colours use hydrogen peroxide (developer) to lift the cuticle of the hair and deposit the colour inside,” says Dr Apoorva Shah, founder of RichFeel Trichology Center, Mumbai.

In this process, the hair cuticle is damaged which in turn causes hair breakage. In fact, chemicals such as ammonia, p-phenylenediamine, diaminobenzene, Toluene-2, 5-diamine and resorcinol–which are all used in hair dyes–also make your hair weak, frizzy, and prone to breakage.

But, hey–there’s no need to panic! Taking appropriate care of your hair can save you from the wrath of hair dyes. Here’s what Dr Shah suggests:

Cash in on natural conditioners

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You can add shine to your coloured hair by conditioning it with curd. It is nourishing in nature and lend your hair natural lustre. Alternatively, you can soak fenugreek seeds in water overnight and rinse your hair with the water after shampooing. 

Rely on vitamin E-rich oils

A head massage with coconut oil, almond oil, brahmi oil, or jojoba oil can also help the case of your damaged hair. Why you ask? Well, because these oils are rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, and can provide some much-needed replenishment to your precious mane.

Apple cider vinegar to the rescue

Dilute one part apple cider vinegar with three parts of water, and wash your hair with this solution after shampooing. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water. Apple cider vinegar helps keep the hair’s pH balance intact and keeps cuticles closed.

There ain’t nothing that a banana mask can’t fix

 Peel a banana and mash it into a smooth pulp. Apply it on your hair and scalp. Bananas’ high potassium content can help restore your hair’s moisture and prevent split ends.