The differences between dry vs damaged hair are often very subtle, but they matter. It’s important to take the time to find out exactly what your hair needs and to start incorporating the best products into your routine. Our team of Aveda Artists use a series of tests to help you determine if your hair is in need of repair or hydration.
You can conduct these tests on your own at home or sit down with an Aveda hair care expert for a complimentary Hair & Scalp Check. This professional analysis of your hair’s health is available at all of our retail locations. Ready to get started?
What causes hair damage?
There are many factors and causes of damaged hair:
 
- • Environmental damage: UV rays, pollution
- • Heat styling: curling irons, blow-dryers
- • Physical factors: brushing, styling, detangling, extensions
- • Chemical treatments: relaxers, perms, hair colouring and bleaching
You can spot some damage just by looking at your hair and paying attention to how it behaves in different situations. Split ends or broken strands and variations in thickness are signs of hair damage.
Damaged hair also may feel fragile, especially when wet and often reacts to the weather, getting frizzy in humidity or brittle in dry, cold environments.
How do I tell if my hair is dry?
Porosity affects the hair’s ability to absorb and retain moisture. It also plays a big part in how much hydration the hair needs. This test is used to determine whether or not your hair would benefit from products formulated to hydrate and replenish.