Reader Help: What should I do about the sad state of my hair?

By Sarah

I used to have beautiful, healthy hair. It would get a little out of hand if I went too long without a haircut (which was often, oops), but then it'd go right back to being awesome once the dead ends were cut off. On top of that, it almost never needed to be washed. I would only wash my hair two or three times a week and it never looked greasy or matted.

Over the past two years or so, though, my hair has turned into a monster. Admittedly, I still don't get it trimmed as often as I should (full disclosure: I haven't had a haircut since November.) However, I rarely use a blow-dryer or straightening iron and it hasn't been color-treated in over a year. And yet, it's completely and totally whack.

The problem, you see, is that my hair has split personalities. The ends are dry as dirt, but the top gets oily/greasy by the end of the day. I've tried everything from shampooing only the scalp and conditioning the ends, to only shampooing once every-other-day while still conditioning every day. Nothing seems to be working, which is why I need your help.

Do I suck it up and lop off a good 6 inches in order to get it back to its usual, shiny self? (Please say no.) Or, is there some sort of genius/awesome/hair-saving product you can recommend? Please say yes and tell me all about it in the comments! My mop-top and I thank you!

Comments

[craftyashley]

Have you tried using a clarifying shampoo and then spritzing the ends with baby detangler before blow drying? It works pretty well for me- who seems to have the exact same problem as you!

[vhmprincess]

a. regular hair cuts are a MUST even if you don't blow dry often. PERIOD. Even if it's just 1/2 inch at a time.
b. GOOD Shampoo and conditioner for color treated hair - like Aveda. Even the Redkin is not good enough.
c. conditioning treatments!!
d. smoothing creme REALLY makes a difference in frizz and static (I do like Redkin's one)

I have tried other shampoos and the VISIBLE difference Aveda products makes is incredible.

[Kristen]

I am also pretty neglectful of my hair -- I rarely get it cut, I blow dry every day, and I use cheap shampoo and conditioner. I can't spend a fortune on my hair! But I found something that at least makes it appear to be healthy and shiny. In fact, a stranger asked me what shampoo I use just the other day (Tresamme). It's Organix Coconut Milk Anti-Breakage Serum. It's a miracle worker!

http://www.target.com/Organix-Coconut-Milk-Anti-Break-Serum/dp/B001F9U294

[vhmprincess]

I also use conditioner in the shower, then spray leave-in (Biolage) conditioner in when I get out.

[Home Sweet Sarah]

Thanks, ladies! I see leave-in conditioner in my future...

[HollyLynne]

My hair is pretty similar . . . so are my haircutting habits! Twice a year is "good" for me. I use dry shampoo to sop up the grease between washings and Biosilk leave in serum after washing and to perk up my ends between washings.

[natalie]

Dry shampoo! I love the Klorane powder, and it helps me cheat through an extra day without washing my hair. And deep conditioning the ends (JUST the ends, not the roots) can help a ton. I like Terax for deep conditioning. (Am a product whore. It is sad. But useful!)

[T$]

Use a hair mask each week. 2T honey with 1 tsp of EVOO if you're hair is long or thick make a double batch. I leave it on as long as I can stand it and then shampoo and condition as usual. I agree that Aveda products are fantastic. I also like Bed Head Moisture Maniacs, Brunette Goddess and Mega Vitamin.

[Mofo43]

I take a B Complex and a biotin supplement. They both help for healthy skin and hair.

[Julie Morris]

I use just a dab of Olive Oil, rub into my hands, and work through the ends after drying. My Grandmother taught me this trick. I use it on my skin also!