Do you want to know what causes hair breakage in natural hair for ladies? Keep reading to know what causes hair breakage in natural hair and how to stop the breakage.
Natural hair, characterized by its beautiful texture and curl pattern, is a source of pride and identity for many individuals.
In addition, natural hair, also known as textured or afro-textured hair, is unique due to its distinctive curl pattern and structure.
However, it can also be prone to breakage if not properly cared for.
While it can be stunning and versatile, it is essential to understand the potential causes of hair breakage to maintain its health and beauty.
Here, you will get to know the various factors that can cause hair breakage in natural hair and the ways to prevent and manage it.
What Causes Hair Breakage in Natural Hair?
Here are the major causes of hair breakage in natural hair for both children and adults:
1. Dryness and Insufficient Moisture
One of the primary reasons for hair breakage in natural hair is dryness.
Natural hair tends to be drier than other hair types because the natural oils produced by the scalp have a harder time traveling down the curly strands.
Furthermore, insufficient moisture can lead to brittle hair that is more prone to breakage.
2. Over-Manipulation of Natural Hair
Over-manipulation of natural hair can weaken the strands and result in breakage.
Also, frequent styling, excessive combing, brushing, or use of tight hairstyles like braids and extensions can put stress on the hair, causing it to break.
3. Lack of Protective Styling
Protective styling involves tucking the ends of the hair away to prevent exposure to environmental elements and reduce manipulation.
Without protective styles, natural hair is more vulnerable to breakage caused by friction, weather, and daily wear and tear.
4. Heat and Chemical Damage
Excessive use of heat-styling tools such as flat irons and curling irons, as well as chemical treatments like relaxers or perms, can damage the protein structure of natural hair.
In addition, this damage weakens the hair shaft, leading to breakage over time.
5. Improper Detangling
Most times, detangling natural hair requires patience and care. Furthermore, using the wrong tools or techniques can result in hair breakage.
In addition, it’s essential to use a wide-tooth comb or fingers and apply a detangling conditioner to ease the process gently.
6. Lack of Protein and Nutrients
Protein is essential for maintaining the strength and elasticity of hair.
Also, a diet deficient in protein and essential nutrients can lead to weak and brittle hair that is more prone to breakage.
7. Environmental Factors
Environmental factors such as harsh weather conditions, exposure to UV rays, and pollution can contribute to hair breakage.
In addition, natural hair is especially vulnerable to damage from these external stressors.
8. Tension from Hairstyles
Tight hairstyles like ponytails, buns, and cornrows can exert tension on the hair, particularly at the hairline and edges.
This tension, if prolonged, can lead to a type of hair breakage called traction alopecia.
In conclusion, maintaining healthy natural hair requires proper care and attention to prevent breakage. To keep your natural hair looking its best, consider the following tips:
- Hydration: Keep your hair well-hydrated by using moisturizing shampoos, conditioners, and leave-in treatments.
- Protective Styling: Embrace protective hairstyles that reduce manipulation and protect your hair from environmental factors.
- Limit Heat and Chemicals: Minimize the use of heat styling tools and harsh chemicals to preserve the integrity of your hair.
- Balanced Diet: Ensure your diet includes a balance of protein and essential nutrients to support healthy hair growth.
- Gentle Detangling: Be gentle when detangling your hair, using the right tools and plenty of conditioner.
- Regular Trims: Regular trims help remove split ends and prevent further breakage.
- Moisture Lock: Seal in moisture with natural oils like coconut or jojoba oil.
By following these guidelines and adopting a hair care routine that suits your specific hair type. Also, you can maintain the strength, beauty, and vitality of your natural hair while reducing the risk of breakage.
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