Hair's the Scoop

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Q: My uncolored, unpermed hair is just beyond my shoulders and all one length. Although my hair tends to be oily, and for the most part healthy, the entire top layer is dry and frizzy. Upon closer inspection last night, I noticed that I've also got seriously split ends. In fact, my hair is only healthy about a finger length from my scalp. Is there any hope to repair the damage? Or am I better off to have it cut at the point of damage?
— Melina D.

A: Thank you for writing in, Melina! I've enlisted the help of Lucie Doughty, Editorial Director for Paul Mitchell, to best answer your question:

The top layer of hair is fine and exposed to the elements more than the layer underneath, which contributes to frizz and flyaways. Cut off your split ends to start fresh, and then maintain a treatment program to avoid future damage. Use a fortifying shampoo and conditioner, then spray damp hair with a leave-in treatment with proteins that will keep your hair strong and resistant to future breakage (like Paul Mitchell Super Strong Liquid Treatment). For a weekly treatment, use a moisture-boosting deep conditioner to keep hair shiny and nourished.

Have a hair care question you've always wanted to ask? Drop us a line at hair@lifetimetv.com.