If your hair feels brittle, looks frayed at the ends or seems to snap at the slightest touch, you’re not alone. Heat styling, colour treatments and even everyday brushing can lead to breakage. The good news? With the right routine, you can bring your strands back from the brink. Here are five simple steps to start repairing now.

Get regular “dusting” cuts

It might sound counterintuitive, but trimming off damaged ends prevents splits from travelling further up the strand. A “dusting” (removing just the very tips) every 6-8 weeks keeps your hair looking smooth and healthy. Even celebrities like Jennifer Aniston credit regular trims as a key part of maintaining their iconic, glossy lengths.

Switch to a sulphate-free shampoo

Sulphates can strip the natural oils your hair needs to stay hydrated. A gentle, sulphate-free formula cleans without over-drying, leaving your hair softer and less prone to breakage. Think of it as giving your hair a clean slate without the straw-like aftermath.

Treat your hair like your skin

Weekly deep-conditioning masks or bond-repair treatments help rebuild hair strength from the inside out. Ingredients like keratin, amino acids and natural oils replenish lost moisture, while using moisturising styling products – such as Almost Everything Cream – each day can help hydrate and protect.

Reduce your heat use

Daily straightening or curling can cause cumulative damage. Try embracing your natural texture a few days a week, using Air Dry Spray to enhance it, or alternatively turn your heat styling tools at a lower temperature. When you do style, always apply a heat protectant.

Sleep on silk

Cotton pillowcases can snag and rough up the hair cuticle overnight. Switching to a silk or satin pillowcase reduces friction, helping prevent breakage and frizz. It’s a small luxury that stars like Gisele Bündchen swear by for waking up with smooth, tangle-free hair.