'I'm a beauty writer. Here’s 7 haircare rules for damaged hair you need to know about.'

As someone who has messed a lot with her hair to try new colours, I've had my fair share of battles with hair breakage.

The thing is, I do enjoy dyeing my hair and didn't want damaged locks to be the reason for putting off ever dyeing it again. 

One of the most rewarding self-care changes I made to avoid damaging my hair was giving it some real tender loving care and not just washing it with whatever I could find laying around in the bathroom.

Since then, I've discovered 7 haircare rules I now live by that have completely transformed my hair from a frizzy, untameable mess, to healthy, strong locks that take minimal effort to style.  

Rule 1: Choose hydrating hair products.

One of the most important steps in caring for damaged hair is to choose the right products, and as someone who has experienced the consequences of not doing so (hello, frail, brittle hair), I urge you to give your hair what it needs.

Recently, I've been using A'kin's Damage Repair haircare range to give my locks a boost in shine and to help my hair and scalp stay healthy after way neglecting it for so long. 

The Damage Repair haircare range from A'kin includes a shampoo, conditioner, and a leave-in conditioner (my personal fave!). The range contains skincare hero ingredients hyaluronic acid and panthenol (vitamin B5) combined with macadamia oil.

The range is also made in Australia, natural, affordable, founded by a botanical chemist, and 100 per cent vegan. (Does it get any better?)

Image: Supplied. 

Rule 2: Embrace heatless styling techniques.

At times, heat styling tools are my mortal enemy, especially when I'm running out the house late for work and don't have time to properly prep my hair before I blast hot air straight onto my scalp.

Since then, I've become a big fan of heatless styling techniques. My go-to is usually braided twists because they look cute while intact and will give you stunning mermaid waves when taken out.

You can also experiment with no-heat curling methods like sock curls or foam rollers. These techniques not only protect your hair but also give it a break from the damaging effects of hot tools.

Rule 3: Use a weekly leave-in treatment.

Adding a weekly leave-in treatment to your haircare routine can work wonders for damaged locks. When it comes to a great leave-in treatment, A'kin's Damage Repair Leave-in Conditioner is my current go-to. 

This product holds a cherished place within my weekly haircare routine. Here's a glimpse of how I use it.

Overnight:

I usually apply it generously before bedtime. I work it into my hair from mid-strands to tips, ensuring the bottom half of my hair is fully coated. Then, I wrap my hair in a silk scarf or use a silk pillowcase to prevent any transfer onto my bedding. 

Leaving it in overnight gives the product time to work its magic. The next morning, I wake up to hair that's not only moisturised but also softer and way more manageable when it comes to styling. 

5-minute rush:

When this happens - and it happens way more often than I'd like to admit - I simply apply the leave-in treatment and let it sit for 5-10 minutes while I tackle my morning to-do list.

It's a quick, no-fuss way to give my hair that extra dose of love and care it craves, and it makes all the difference when I'm racing against the clock.

Image: Supplied. 

Rule 4: Protect your hair from chlorine.

If you're a water lover like myself and spend a lot of time in the pool, you need to take extra care of your hair. Chlorine can strip your hair of its natural oils and leave it feeling brittle and lifeless.

Before taking a dip, wet your hair thoroughly and apply a leave-in conditioner. This creates a barrier that helps shield your hair from the harmful effects of chlorine. After swimming, rinse your hair with fresh water and follow up with a hydrating shampoo and conditioner to restore moisture in your locks.

Rule 5: Invest in silk pillowcases.

Believe it or not, your choice of a pillowcase can impact the health of your hair. Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, leading to breakage and frizz. Swap them out for silk pillowcases, which are gentler on your hair and help prevent damage. Plus, they feel super luxurious against your skin.

Rule 6: Protect your hair when going out.

Believe it or not, there are also external factors that can exacerbate damage to our hair (I know, so annoying). If I'm spending time outside, such as going for a walk or a picnic, I make sure to wear a hat. 

Rule 7: Trim your ends regularly.

Don't underestimate the power of a chop. Regular trims (every 6-8 weeks) work wonders in keeping damaged hair in check. 

Trimming off split ends won't only help prevent damage, but it also gives your hair a healthier look and feel. A trim will keep your hair looking and feeling its best, and adding a head massage every now and then wouldn't hurt either.

Damaged hair doesn't have to be a lifelong struggle. By following these 7 haircare rules and incorporating a hydrating product range into your routine, you'll be well on your way to healthier and stronger locks.

Shop A'kin's Damage Repair range, a natural, affordable, Australian-made haircare brand, founded by botanical chemists. 

Feature Image: Supplied.