Q&A for How to Color Damaged Hair

Be careful not to shampoo your hair every time you bathe since it could damage your hair more. If you do shampoo, opt for something that's sulfate-free.

Unfortunately no. You can hydrate damaged hair and smooth out the cuticle which will make it feel softer and look healthier. You can treat it with protein, which will help prevent breakage. But all treatments for damaged hair are temporary, not true fixes.

If your hair is severely damaged, it will not be possible to get a color that requires pre-lightening, such as pink, without risking severe damage and breakage.

Coconut oil can smooth damaged hair but sadly nothing can repair damaged strands.

Permanent dye opens the cuticle and breaks and reforms some of the bonds in your hair. Moderate use causes minimal damage, but frequent use and extreme changes can have a big impact on hair's health.

Yes, but only if you are using strong formulations and using them frequently. If you are concerned about damage try a semi or semi-permanent color. These formulas are virtually damage-free.

You probably need a better quality hair dye. You may also be trying to change your color too radically, leading to the color not taking. Try using a more expensive dye that's closer to your natural color.

Coconut oil is a great solution for dull hair. Not only does coconut oil restore shine, but it also repairs damage and helps facilitate hair growth.

Kérastase is a great brand for shampoos and conditioners. I would suggest Kérastase Résistance Ciment Thermique.

No. You should not further process your hair if it is in such a fragile state. If the whole head of hair is brittle, cut as much as possible off and deep condition the rest until new hair begins to grow. Gradually trim the damaged ends off until hair has grown back healthy.

Shine will come back with time as you work on repairing your hair with things like masks, conditioning treatment, and so on.

Try using leave-in conditioner, and only dye the roots where your hair is gray to prevent your hair from getting damaged.

Bleach will not repair hair. Bleach always damages hair and tends to make problems worse. Do not bleach damaged hair.

You can, just follow the guidelines in the article. Dry hair is similar to damaged hair.

You can make a mixture of vitamin C and shampoo (such as a dandruff shampoo) and leave it on your hair for a long while. It won't completely remove the red but it will lighten it a lot.

Yes, you can use mehndi on your hair.

If the hair is so damaged it won't dye at all, the easiest way is to simply cut the damaged parts away. You can also try to revive the hair by moisturizing, etc.

Don't bleach or dye it for a while and use a damage repair conditioner daily.

I use Wella color charm (packet) and Blond Brilliance developer to do just my roots. Depending on how light or dark your roots are, use a 20 or 35 developer. You only need part of the packet to do your roots, leaving some left over for another time. Seal the packet and place in a baggie to keep moisture out.

No. Try strengthening and moisturizing first, then cutting off damaged ends.

Depends how many times you have bleached it before. If you have bleached it with ammonia, it is most likely not safe to do.

A cosmetics store or the cosmetics section of your local grocery should have multiple options for your color needs.

If you have brown or other darker hair color, I'd recommend bleaching it first. If you have blonde hair but the color is still too dark, try switching to another hair dye. Consulting a hairdresser is also a good idea.

Salon quality products are generally better than grocery store brands, but it really depends on your hair type. Look for a salon quality conditioner catered to your hair specifically.