SOS! Your Dead Ends Need Saving, But It's Okay—We Found the Best Breakage Treatments (2024)

First, let’s start with the bad news: Pretty much anything and everything we do to our hair can damage it. We’re talking about brushing, heat styling, coloring, and even spending time outdoors. Enter hair breakage remedies. “By using a hair breakage treatment, you can replenish the hydration of the hair, strengthen the inner core, and begin to rebuild the cuticle, all of which are key elements to regaining the hair’s health,” explains celebrity stylist Anthony Cristiano.

Hair breakage treatments fall into two categories: hydration-based and protein-based. Cristiano suggests alternating between the two, using hydration products daily and protein-based formulas more sparingly since protein buildup may potentially make the hair drier and more brittle. Ready to give your hair a little extra TLC? We scoured the internet, read through countless reviews, tapped multiple experts for their recommendations, and tried a few top-rated products for ourselves to compile this list of treatments that actually work.

What We Like

  • Very effective

  • Great for all hair types

  • Beloved by hair pros

What to Consider

  • Super concentrated

  • Can be overused

Hair Type: All | Size: 3.3 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This aptly named product is the at-home version of an in-salon treatment that colorists love. The DIY option is just as beloved by pros, consumers, and beauty editors alike, coming in at number one on this list. It uses a unique technology to help rebuild the bonds that are broken when hair is damaged and delivers impressive results after just a few uses.

It’s a favorite of Cristiano’s. “The once-a-week treatment helps maintain the hair’s structure, strength, and overall luster,” he says. The formula is highly concentrated so it's best to limit use to once a week.

Byrdie contributor Ashley Rubell tried Olaplex’s Bond Maintenance System Kit (which includes this product, along with a companion shampoo and conditioner) and gave it a solid five-star rating. She writes that the Hair Perfector felt like “a magic hair potion,” leaving her hair healthier, silkier, and stronger overall after each use.

SOS! Your Dead Ends Need Saving, But It's Okay—We Found the Best Breakage Treatments (2)

What We Like

  • Travel-friendly ampoules

  • Easy to use

  • Very hydrating

What to Consider

  • Effects not as long-lasting as more intensive treatments

Hair Type: All | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

These single-use ampoules house the beloved drugstore brand’s most concentrated formula to date, a deep conditioning treatment that targets damage caused by heat styling, coloring, chemical processing, and more. It's formulated for all hair types and textures to help prevent split ends and restore tons of moisture. You can see impressive results even after one use, though they are not as long-lasting as more intensive treatments.

What We Like

  • Formulated with natural ingredients

  • Free from sulfates and silicones

  • Leaves hair easier to comb

What to Consider

  • Scent is quite mild

  • Product isn’t as widely available

Hair Type: All | Size: 16.9 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you prefer your beauty products to have pared back ingredient lists, this pick from Australian brand Sukin offers intense moisture and hydration without the addition of harsh chemicals. Shea butter and vitamin E combine with the potent trio of coconut, sesame, and olive oil to give your hair back its bounce and leave it looking softer and more manageable. This conditioner works with all hair types. We also love how the subtle coconut and lime scent gives your hair a fresh aroma without being too overpowering.

What We Like

  • Strengthens bleached hair from the inside

  • Prevents further breakage

What to Consider

  • May be too heavy to use everyday

Hair Type: Colored, dry | Size: 1.7, 6.8, 33.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Yep we know bleaching is probably one of the main culprits when it comes to causing breakage, yet we still can resist from booking in for a fresh head of highlights every six to eight weeks. For those who giving up regular bleach sessions just isn’t an option, investing in this restorative conditioner from Oribe is a must.

This treatment has everything your hair needs to repair previous damage and prevent further tangles. It works by creating a protective scaffold around each individual strand to help make them stronger and more resilient to daily wear and tear from heat styling and pollution. It also contains a hyaluronic acid complex for deep hydration.

Jordan Julian, Byrdie news and deals editor: “Bleaching has left my hair a tad worse for the wear at times, When my hair needs some TLC, I reach for Oribe’s Resilience Conditioner, which strengthens and nourishes while working to prevent future breakage.”

What We Like

  • Restores moisture to damaged hair

  • Provides a gentle yet thorough cleanse

  • Leaves strands softer and with more body

What to Consider

  • Some may prefer a more fragranced shampoo

Hair Type: All | Size: 3, 13.5, 33.8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

When trying to save compromised hair, many of us immediately head straight for a heavy conditioning mask when really it's a restorative shampoo that will make the difference. This shampoo doesn’t just clean your hair and scalp, it also delivers it with a mix of wheat and soy protein for extra softness, along with a dose of keratin for strength.

Clare Holden, beauty writer with thick, curly hair: “I do everything I shouldn't do to my hair from dying to heat styling. I picked up this shampoo on the recommendation of my hair stylist, and could see the difference immediately after just one wash. My curls were more defined and my hair looked healthier.”

What We Like

  • Lightweight formula doesn’t weigh down hair

  • Replenishes dry strands

  • Can be used every day

What to Consider

  • Foam gets used up faster than a liquid conditioner

Hair Type: Fine | Size: 6 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Those with fine hair will love the lightweight feel of this conditioner. If you find that most treatments tend to leave your hair looking greasy or with a slight residue then this drugstore gem is the hair-saving solution you have been searching for. The foam formula is the ideal texture to deliver moisturizing ingredients to thinner strands without weighing them down. Unlike cream products, this pick provides the same nourishment without the oiliness, making it a great choice for those who need to wash their hair every day.

What We Like

  • Returns structure and bounce to curls

  • Helps to reduce breakage

  • Provides intense moisture for the hair

What to Consider

  • This is a pre-shampoo treatment so is a little bit more time consuming

Hair Type: All | Size: 75, 150, 1000, 1500 mL | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This is one of those products that if you have never heard of it you will wonder how you ever lived without it. It is actually a pre-shampoo treatment and was originally created for Audrey Hepburn to repair her hair after filming. It’s suitable for all hair types and uses hydrolyzed elastin along with castor and olive oil and glycerin to bring definition back to your curls and leave them looking shinier.

Clare Holden, beauty writer with thick, curly hair: “Years of straightening my hair had left my curls a mess, this treatment has been the only product to successfully bring back their bounce. I sleep with it in wearing a shower cap then shampoo it out in the morning, and the results are amazing.”

What We Like

  • Contains amino acids to rebuild broken bonds from extensions

  • A full set of products to help improve hair quality

  • Nourishing and cleansing

What to Consider

  • You have to commit to a three-product system

Hair Type: All | Size: 5-13.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Celebrity stylist Lacy Redway tends to the tresses of stars like Laura Harrier, Lupita Nyong'o, and Yara Shahidi, and works with extensions all the time. Therefore, she knows the toll they can take on a healthy head of hair.

She personally reaches for Nexxus’ Amino Bond Shampoo, Conditioner, and Intense Rebond Treatment whenever she’s wearing extensions because of this system’s science: It rebuilds your strands with five amino acids. “It also generates new bonds at the innermost core while replenishing keratin protein lost from styling and chemical services, giving you stronger hair after,” she says.

What We Like

  • Words in seconds

  • Great for all hair types

  • Prevents future damage

What to Consider

  • Can cause tangles

Hair Type: All | Size: 6.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Short on time? This wash-out speed demon works in—wait for it—just 60 seconds. Credit a bond-repairing technology that helps both undo existing damage and prevent damage super fast. It’s so effective that after just three uses, it leaves hair up to 2.4 times stronger and with 58% less breakage (according to the brand), making it one of our favorite bond-building hair products. Though the product works quickly, be gentle. Too much product or too rough an application can cause tangles.

What We Like

  • Pure castor oil

  • Rich in hair-loving ingredients

  • Promotes hair growth

What to Consider

  • Can be too heavy for fine hair

Hair Type: Dry, thick | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Castor oil is another great option in the "ingredients that naturally strengthen" department. Anecdotally, many say that it helps with hair growth (though we do need to point out that there’s no scientific evidence backing up that claim). It is, however, rich in fatty acids, antioxidants, proteins, and vitamins, which are beneficial for both your scalp and hair. It also helps to lock in moisture and leaves hair beautifully shiny, too.That said, it may be too heavy for fine hair.

Follow our product tester Maya Allen's lead and massage a little bit into your mid-lengths and ends before using hot tools. "My broken-off, brittle ends needed a bunch of TLC, so I began applying this oil made with pure organic Jamaican black castor seeds to my ends and my scalp,” she tells us, adding that her hair seriously sprouted. “I'm forever indebted to this stuff."

What We Like

  • One less step in your routine

  • A little goes a long way

  • Patented formula repairs hair at a molecular level

What to Consider

  • Can feel sticky if you use too much

Hair Type: All | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Though it's on the pricier side, this leave-in treatment from K-18 is worth every single penny. Formulated with a patented peptide, this mask repairs hair damage from bleach, color, chemical services, heat, and more.

Start small (anything more than a dime-sized amount can make your hair feel sticky) and work it through your hair from root to tip. Wait four minutes before styling to let it activate, and it’ll start reversing damage after that. Bonus: It’s safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair, and comes in a convenient, travel-friendly mini size, too.

Caitlyn Martyn, Byrdie associate commerce editor: "I love using this mask straight out of the shower on towel-dried hair. The brand recommends skipping conditioner, so if that’s any indication as to how potent this conditioning treatment is, you’re in for a real treat.”

SOS! Your Dead Ends Need Saving, But It's Okay—We Found the Best Breakage Treatments (13)

What We Like

  • Superfine mist

  • Lightweight

  • Potent, science-backed formula

What to Consider

  • You have to use it often to notice results

Hair Type: All | Size: 3.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This no-rinse bonding spray helps to deeply repair existing damage and protect against future breakage. The fine mist is great for all hair types, especially those with hair that gets weighed down by thicker products. Just because it’s lightweight doesn’t mean it lacks potency, though you might have to use it often to see noticeable improvement. The formulation contains a proprietary Chiaplex complex that deploys a combo of chia seed extract, amino acids, and bonding molecules to repair broken hairs from the inside out.

What We Like

  • Nutrient-rich

  • Naturally fragranced

  • Suitable for all hair types and textures

What to Consider

  • Time-consuming

Hair Type: All | Size: 3.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This dual-action mask from Briogeo helps revive dry, damaged hair. It has two functions—one side pumps out a protein-rich formula, while the other doubles down on moisture—for easy multi-masking once a week.

To use, it's recommended that you apply it after shampooing and wringing out any excess water. Then, once it's been lathered from root to tip, it should be left in for a minimum of 10 minutes. For an extra intensive treatment, you can sleep in it before rinsing it out.

What We Like

  • Rich and buttery texture

  • Nice blend of essential oils

  • Fights frizz while repairing damange

What to Consider

  • Could retain moisture better

  • May not be safe for people with nut allergies

Hair Type: Dry | Size: 8 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you’re in the market for a restorative mask that promises to transform even the thickest, most fried locks after one take, look right at this one from Ouai. Celebrity stylist Jen Atkin’s powerhouse product is packed with a rich blend of illipe and shea butter, almond, olive, and macadamia oils (so it's not suitable if you have a nut allergy) plus hydrolyzed keratin—a protein molecule known for its ability to penetrate the hair cuticle with a vengeance.

Strands are super smooth and shiny post-use, though we think it could help retain moisture better. We also love this treatment for its intoxicating scent (think notes of rose, bergamot, lychee, and white musk).

Best Mask for Bleached or Relaxed Hair

Davines Nounou Hair Mask

SOS! Your Dead Ends Need Saving, But It's Okay—We Found the Best Breakage Treatments (17)

What We Like

  • Sulfate-free formula can be used as a leave-in

  • Helps with combing and detangling

  • Post-treatment hair is silky, not weighed down

What to Consider

  • Relatively small jar

Hair Type: All | Size: 8.87 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Davines’ cult-loved mask can help protect and nourish damaged hair that's prone to breakage from harsh treatments like bleach or relaxing, according to celebrity stylist and owner of PM Jerome Lordet Salon, Jerome Lordet. “It's best to leave it on after shampooing for about 15 minutes, once a week in place of conditioner,” he says, especially if your locks are a bit lackluster from excessive heat styling.

Nounou can help restore them to feeling soft and detangled, he says, thanks to the antioxidant and protein-infused Fiaschetto tomato extract and vitamins C and E.We just wish there was more product for the price.

What We Like

  • Increases shine

  • Provides heat protection

  • Smooths flyaway hairs

What to Consider

  • If you have thinner hair go for the light version of this oil

Hair Type: Medium, thick | Size: 0.85, 1.7, 3.4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

This oil is a haircare essential and when you are through with shampooing and conditioning, this is the only option to ensure your hair looks sleek once dried. Not only does it add shine, it also conditions and softens making it easier to comb. It comes recommended from several of the hair professionals we spoke to, with stylist Rachel Voss explaining how best to use it saying, “Massage this oil into damp ends to provide them with much-needed moisture without weighing your hair down.”

The combination of argan oil and linseed extract ensure every aspect of your hair’s health is taken care of, as well as providing heat protection. It also comes in a light version for those with fine hair.

What We Like

  • Promotes new growth at the scalp

  • Contains fruit extracts to nourish and moisturize

  • Tames frizz

What to Consider

  • Fragrance can irritate those with sensitive skin

Hair Type: All | Size: 4 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Most products that focus on breakage treat hair from the mid-shaft to the ends, but what about the scalp? That’s the foundation for healthier hair, according to celebrity hairstylist Davontaé Washington, who works with Kim Kardashian, Megan Thee Stallion, and Cardi B. “What’s unique about this product is that it was developed by a board-certified dermatologist,” he explains, adding, “Never forget, your scalp is skin too!”

Thanks to its main ingredient, keratin, this deep conditioning treatment will reduce breakage while also strengthening the hair and promoting new growth at the same time. Keep in mind that it does contain fragrance, which can irritate sensitive skin.

What to Look for in a Hair Breakage Treatment

  • Ingredients: Look for moisturizing ingredients such as coconut oil, avocado oil, castor oil, and botanical blends. Oils are especially effective at delivering hydration and maintaining it. "Lipids will fill your hair, protein strengthens it and moisture hydrates your strands," says celebrity hairstylist Paul Labrecque. "With any of these key ingredients off balance, breakage can occur.”
  • Texture: Treatments come in many different forms, and depending on your lifestyle and needs, you’ll want one that works with you. Solid oils—that emulsify when warmed—are ideal for intensive overnight treatments. Creams are a great everyday product to apply after cleansing and right before styling. Liquid oils can be used interchangeably—either as a deep treatment or after styling.
  • Time: Incorporating anti-breakage products into your routine does just that—it adds an extra step. Keep time in mind when looking for a product since some require more dedication than others. When time is of the essence, reach for sprays and other repair treatments that can work in 60 seconds and deliver seriously impressive results after just a few uses. Certain masks, on the other hand, require the formula to sit in the hair for up to 10 minutes. Some leave-in products, however, can stay in your hair and don’t have to be washed out.

FAQ

  • How do you prevent hair breakage?

    According to award-winning stylist Nunzio Saviano, there are a few measures you can take to prevent hair breakage. "Lack of moisture can contribute to hair breakage, so Irecommend using a weekly deep conditioning mask that's formulated for your hair type, such as a mask for dry or damaged hair.”

    Saviano recommends blow-drying your hair from damp (or at least 70% dry)—and never while it’s dripping wet. Overdoing it with hot tools—especially without a heat protectant—can also lead to breakage. “I tell my clients to not use hot tools more than one or two times a week and to only use them with heat protection,” he says.

  • Can a haircut get rid of hair breakage?

    Absolutely. Saviano highly recommends never skipping a trim. "You can snip off the split ends that result in dry, brittle hair before they continue up the hair shaft and eventually break off," he says.

Meet Our Experts

We consulted several experts for this story:

  • Anthony Cristiano is a Chicago-based celebrity hairstylist with over 30 years experience working on fashion editorials, high profile advertising campaigns, and red carpet events.
  • Stylist and salon founder Jerome Lordet has worked with everyone from Jessica Simpson to Sandra Bullock, along with regularly styling for magazines and backstage at NYFW.
  • Hair stylist Lacy Redway completed her training at the prestigious Aveda Institute in Manhattan. She has created looks for countless celebrities and her work has graced the covers of numerous fashion magazines.
  • An expert in natural hair, wigs, and hair extensions, Los Angeles-based celebrity hairstylist Davontaé Washington counts Cardi B and Normani amongst his clients.
  • Rachel Voss has almost 20 years experience as a hairstylist. She founded her first Salon in 2016 in Dallas.
  • New York based Paul Labrecque is a renowned hair stylist and salon owner, who has over 20 years experience working with innovative color, cutting, and styling techniques.
  • Nunzio Saviano has more than 30 years of experience working as a hairstylist and has his own salon in New York City.

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie contributor Melanie Rud has over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, writing for some of the biggest magazines and websites out there. Her hair is both fine, highlighted, and often styled with hot tools—aka she makes sure to use a hair breakage treatment regularly. The Olaplex product featured in this roundup is one of her current personal favorites.

Kelli Acciardo covers all things hair care for Byrdie and spends an obscene amount of time researching how to make her hair stronger, shinier, and less susceptible to breakage—even with color-treated locks. She lives for a treatment mask that does all three and is alternating between Ouai’s formulas at this time.

Clare Holden has over 15 years experience working as a beauty journalist and makeup artist. Years of heat styling and coloring had left her hair worse for wear until she finally found the right treatments to save her strands and enable her to grow her hair long again.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough hair breakage treatments from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

SOS! Your Dead Ends Need Saving, But It's Okay—We Found the Best Breakage Treatments (2024)
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