Hairstylist Kennedy Zziwa has urged women to pay closer attention to their hair-care routines, warning that chemical treatments, excessive styling and poorly maintained hairstyles can contribute to hair damage and breakage.
Zziwa, the chief executive of Hair by Zziwa Salon, says some women adopt hair-care practices without considering their hair type or condition, increasing the risk of damage.
He recommends taking a more deliberate approach to hair maintenance, including choosing suitable products, trimming damaged ends and seeking professional advice before undergoing chemical treatments.
Identify the cause of hair loss
Hair loss can result from several factors, including genetics, ageing, stress, nutritional deficiencies, medical conditions and certain treatments.
However, Zziwa says women who experience unusual hair loss should also examine their hair-care practices, particularly their use of chemical relaxers, heat and hairstyles that place repeated tension on the hair.
The distinction is important because hair shedding and hair breakage are not the same. Shedding involves hair falling from the scalp, while breakage occurs when strands snap along their length.
Persistent, sudden or patchy hair loss should be assessed by a health professional rather than automatically attributed to poor hair care.
Consider starting afresh
For women experiencing extensive damage, Zziwa recommends considering a fresh start by cutting off damaged hair and adopting a different maintenance routine.
Those who are reluctant to cut their hair can gradually transition away from chemically relaxed hair as the treated sections grow out.
However, cutting the hair is not a universal treatment for hair loss. The appropriate approach depends on the cause and extent of the problem.
Choose chemical treatments carefully
Zziwa advises women who use relaxers to pay attention to the products they apply and how frequently they undergo chemical treatments.
Afro-textured hair has different curl patterns, commonly classified as types 4A, 4B and 4C. However, product selection should also take account of the hair’s condition and scalp health, rather than relying on curl classification alone.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends allowing longer intervals between chemical relaxer treatments, with touch-ups spaced at least eight to 10 weeks apart or longer where possible.
Women should also avoid repeatedly applying relaxers to previously treated sections, as this can weaken the hair and increase breakage.
Trim damaged ends
Zziwa recommends trimming split ends after chemical treatments to prevent further damage to the hair.
Split ends occur when the protective outer layer of a hair strand becomes damaged and separates. Trimming removes the affected section, although it does not prevent new split ends from developing.
Regular conditioning, gentle handling and limiting excessive heat can also help reduce hair damage.
Work with a professional stylist
Zziwa advises women to seek the services of experienced hairstylists who understand different hair textures and chemical treatments.
A qualified stylist can assess the condition of the hair, recommend suitable products and help minimise damage during styling.
Women experiencing scalp irritation, significant breakage or unusual hair loss should also seek medical advice, as some conditions require treatment beyond routine salon care.
Pay attention to nutrition
A balanced diet is important for normal hair growth. Nutrients such as protein, iron and zinc support normal hair health, while deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can contribute to hair loss.
Zziwa highlights protein, iron, vitamins A, C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, selenium and biotin as nutrients to consider in a hair-care diet.
However, taking supplements does not automatically improve hair growth. Nutritional deficiencies should be established before using supplements, as excessive intake of some nutrients can also cause health problems.
Do not keep braids in for too long
Zziwa cautions women against keeping braids and weave-ons for extended periods, arguing that prolonged use can contribute to breakage, particularly around the hairline.
The risk is not determined by duration alone. Tight installation, heavy extensions and repeated pulling can place excessive tension on hair follicles, leading to a condition known as traction alopecia.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends keeping braids loose, particularly around the hairline, and avoiding styles that cause pain or irritation. It advises against leaving braids in for longer than six to eight weeks.
Women should also give their hair breaks between protective styles and avoid repeatedly wearing hairstyles that pull on the same areas of the scalp.
