Your Hair Is Moderately Damaged

Without extreme vigilance, it's hard to completely avoid damage, so don't fret. Follow these simple steps to easily rehabilitate your hair.

Step 1: Trim hair every six to eight weeks to remove split ends, and only shampoo when necessary. (Unless hair is extremely oily, you don't need to shampoo daily.) Nelson Chan, owner of Nelson J salon in Beverly Hills, Calif., recommends regularly using a leave-in conditioner: "For fine hair, choose a spray leave-in that's lightweight and contains protein. Thick hair needs one that contains hydrating ingredients like shea butter or plant oils, usually in a light cream form."

Step 2: When exposed to sun or heat-styling tools, avoid further damage or dryness by using a heat-protectant spray or cream, advises Kaz Amor, co-owner of Warren-Tricomi Salon in Los Angeles. Amor also suggests using styling tools that have heat control dials so that you can regulate the level of heat applied to your hair. "Curly, coarse hair can handle higher temperatures because it has more layers of cuticle," says Amor.

Step 3: Pamper hair by deep conditioning monthly and opting for a paddle brush instead of a hard bristle brush. Oh, and avoid rubbing hair dry with a towel, advises Chan. Pat hair dry instead.