I was sort of surprised when I heard that Jennifer Aniston chopped off her hair. Don't get me wrong–she looks great! It's just that the former Friends star has always preferred longer locks. But after I learned that the drastic new cut was actually due to a Brazilian Keratin treatment gone wrong, it all made perfect sense.
"It wasn't for a role. My hair went through a phase–I did this thing called a Brazilian and my hair did not react well to it. It's about two inches above my shoulders now," Jennifer told Elle magazine. This isn't the first time I've heard about someone who had to cut their hair short because it got damaged by the Brazilian treatment!
Readmore ¿Qué más?: Curly Qs: How can I repair my heat-damaged curls?
The straightening treatment uses a combination of formaldehyde (despite denials from brands) and keratin that work to keep hair straighter, sleeker, and frizz-free for months. But here's what they DON'T tell you: The harsh chemicals many times can work against your hair, causing anything from thinning, dryness, dullness, and for curly haired chicas it can even destroy your curl pattern.
So how can you reverse the damage without cutting off all your hair you ask? Well there's a few things you can do, starting with changing up your hair routine. Check out a few of my Brazilian treatment hair repair tips below! And remember patience is key ladies!
Image via MailOnline.com
Change your shampoo
If you’ve had the Brazilian Keratin or Blowout done, chances are you’ve already been using sulfate-free shampoos. I’d take it a step further and look for a cleanser that’s also going to help restore your dry damaged hair. Try Wen Tea Tree Cleansing Conditioner ($42).
Get a trim
If chopping your hair off sounds too drastic for you, try cutting away those dead ends gradually. Get at least an inch to an inch and a half professionally cut every eight to 10 weeks.
Lay off on the heat
Flat ironing your hair to disguise the damage might sound tempting, but it can actually make things worse. Try laying off on the hot tools as much as you can. Or at least add a heat protectant to damp hair ALWAYS before styling. I love the Moroccanoil Heat Styling Protection Spray ($28).
Stimulate your scalp
If you experienced a lot of hair loss or thinning from your Brazilian blowout, try a scalp treatment for growth, like the PHYTO Phytocyane Revitalizing Serum ($65). I also like massaging my scalp with rosemary oil. It stimulates your hair follicles to help promote growth.
Do a hair mask
What your hair needs most is moisture! Try applying a deep conditioning treatment to your tresses at least once a week to hydrate and repair hair. I love L’Oréal Paris Advanced Haircare Total Repair 5 Damage Erasing Balm ($6).
Use oil
Essential oils are another great way to deeply nourish and revitalize strands. They also leave strands super shiny! Try Josie Maran 100 Percent Pure Argan Oil ($48). It helps treat split ends and softens your hair cuticles.
Have patience
Remember that repairing damaged hair doesn’t happen overnight. Try to be patient and enjoy the journey!
