The 11 Best Products For Over-Processed Hair – 2024
Restore the original texture and quality of your hair while combatting frizz and damage.
Lindsay Loo is a cosmetologist who has spent 10 years behind the chair in a storied salon in Chelsea. She is a certified Wella Master Color Expert and also has experience backstage at New York Fashion Week. She has a private studio and loves to make her clients feel amazing and welcomed.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Experience: 3 yearsKirtana has a postgraduate degree in mass communication and journalism from St. Joseph’s College, Bengaluru, and 3 years of professional experience. She developed a deep passion for writing after reading the brilliant works of Enid Blyton and Roald Dahl and has chosen a career that is driven by creativity.
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Experience: 3 yearsSwathi has a postgraduate degree in English literature from The English And Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and over three years of experience in writing on beauty, health, and lifestyle. She also has a diploma in English journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Kottayam, and is a certified skincare coach.
Read full bio of Swathi E
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Suppose you are someone who loves to experiment with their hair texture and color and doesn’t shy away from a big change. In that case, you are no stranger to the after-effects of these treatments and would really benefit from the use of the best products for over-processed hair. Bleaching sessions, toners, and colors can have a huge impact on your precious strands, and if you don’t invest in the best products for over-processed hair, it will get dry and damaged. So, to avoid burning your hair and feeling horrible, you have to look for products that hydrate and strengthen it.
Whether your hair is damaged from styling products or chemical treatments, a good hair care routine that is catered specifically for overly processed hair can help prevent a bad situation from getting worse. Additionally, it would help if you remembered that the products you use on your normal, non-processed hair would differ from what your processed hair needs. Most times, your old products can be quite drying on your over-processed hair. Well, you don’t have to worry anymore because, in this article, we have listed the 11 best products for over-processed hair that will repair any damage and strengthen your lovely strands. We have selected the products after carefully analyzing their formulations and reviews. Keep reading to know more!
In This Article
11 Best Products For Over-Processed Hair To Keep It Happy And Healthy
1. Best For Color-Treated Hair:BIOLAGE Advanced Keratindose Pro-Keratin Renewal Spray
If you are looking for the perfect leave-in conditioner that works wonders on over-processed hair, then your search ends here. The Pro-Keratin Renewal Spray by BIOLAGE works great on dry, tangled hair without causing any annoying buildup that will weigh it down. It can be used on chemically and color-treated hair without compromising the texture or the color. The formula is packed with keratin which ensures that your strands are strong and get frizzy. We highly recommend this product on naturally wavy or curly hair because it won’t ruin your hair pattern and keep it intact even when you go to bed. Many reviewers praise the sweet fragrance and the lightweight formula of the product. They also love that it can smooth out their hair strands easily. All you have to do is spray it on, 4 times a week, on freshly washed hair and gently comb it out with a wide-tooth comb for the best results.
- Doesn’t cause buildup
- Easy to apply
- Tames frizz
- Mild fragrance
- Suitable for wavy/curly hair
- Detangles
- May contain alcohol
Pro Tip2. Best For Heat Styling:SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner
This hair mask is excellent for over-processed hair that is long and dry towards the ends. The hydrating formula is made with natural ingredients like Jamaican black castor oil and shea butter that have proven efficacy in nourishing each strand and increasing the hair’s elasticity. These repairing oils help prevent breakage when you’re brushing your hair out. This leave-in conditioner is perfect for people who regularly straighten, perm, or use any heat to style their hair. It also works great on people who have loose or tight-coiled curls. The conditioner works by creating a hydrating layer on your hair shaft; this retains moisture and prevents any split ends. Use this product for over-processed hair, once or twice a week, for a few months straight, and you will notice soft and healthy hair. This product is deemed a holy grail for people with curly hair because it knocks frizz and flyaways right out of the park.
- Hydrating
- Anti-breakage
- Strengthens and protects
- Suitable for loose and tight curls
- Nourishing natural ingredients
- Tames frizz and flyaways
- Suitable for heat and chemical processed hair
- May leave a greasy residue
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 7,764 rave reviews on Amazon.
3. Best For Thick Hair:Kerastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste Smooth-In-Motion Shampoo
This shampoo is a cult favorite amongst salon professionals, and with good reason! The gentle formula doesn’t strip your hair or make it drier than before; rather, it nourishes each strand, making it soft and shiny. This restorative treatment shampoo is infused with morpho-keratine complex technology, and it’s sulfate-free, so it’s specially created for sensitized and color-treated hair. It also contains a surface perfector that ensures that your hair is detangled and uniform after every wash; the high precision care agent restores your hair’s natural touch and gives it a nice weightless effect. The shampoo is suitable for humid and hot weather, especially if you have thick hair that frizzes up easily.
- Anti-frizz protection
- Optimal hair manageability
- Detangling
- Smoothening
- Softens
- Enhances the natural movement of your hair
- Strengthens each strand
- Sulfate-free
- May not be suitable for fine hair
BIOLAGE Advanced Keratindose Pro-Keratin Renewal Spray Best For Color-Treated Hair | SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Leave-In Conditioner Best For Heat Styling | Kerastase Discipline Bain Fluidealiste Smooth-In-Motion Shampoo Best For Thick Hair | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Type | Damaged | Curly | Damaged |
| Dimensions | 1.77 x 1.77 x 7.84 inches | - | 2.61 x 2.61 x 9.29 inches |
| Weight | 6.4 Ounces | - | 14.11 Ounces |
| Dimensions | - | 3.65 x 3.65 x 2.75 inches; 11 Ounces | - |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 5,161 | 7,764 | 3,096 |
| Price | $23.0 | $17.97 | $33.83 |
4. Best Affordable Option:Carol’s Daughter Almond Milk Restoring Conditioner
Everyone knows that almonds are filled with vitamins that benefit your hair, and this conditioner does just that! The formula is made from almond milk and is aimed at repairing super-damaged hair. It also has other nourishing ingredients like shea butter, aloe vera, and proteins that work together to moisturize each strand from top to bottom. The formula is lightweight and won’t weigh your hair down, no matter how much you apply. The moment you slather on the conditioner, it creates a protective layer on your hair that shields it from harmful external factors like heat and pollution. Also, the product makes the detangling a breeze, so you don’t have to worry about any snags or breakage while styling your hair. In the end, you will surely be delighted with your shiny and bouncy curls.
- Lightweight
- Suitable for all types of natural and processed curls
- Detangles
- Stimulates hair growth
- Shields and strengthens weak strands
- Some may find the fragrance strong
5. Best For Shiny Hair:Majestic Cosmeceuticals Premium Quality Pure Coconut Oil Hair Mask
You can never go wrong with coconut hair oil, can you? But what about when it comes to over-processed hair? Won’t it damage your precious strands even further? Well, fear not because this coconut hair oil mask will fix all your hair woes, even on chemically processed hair. This potent repair mask is filled with the goodness of coconut fats and vitamin E, which are crucial factors responsible for hydrating and nourishing your hair. The hair mask ensures that each strand is deeply conditioned and hydrated so that it results in a silky texture and a brilliant shine. We recommend that you use this mask twice a week, just before you wash your hair, and keep it on for 20 minutes. If you have thick, long hair that is damaged due to heat or chemicals, then this mask is the savior your strands need.
- Intensive hydration formula
- Helps with damage control
- Suitable for thick straight or curly hair
- Doesn’t fade color
- Shine enhancing
- Strengthens hair shaft
- Must not be applied directly to the scalp
6. Best pH Balanced Formula:GIOVANNI 50:50 Balanced Hydrating Clarifying Shampoo
Update your hair care products for over-processed hair by adding this clarifying shampoo. The formula is a potent blend of vitamins, nutrients, and proteins that enhance hair strength while keeping it dry and lifeless. It is infused with gentle ingredients like aloe vera, rosemary, and botanical extracts specially designed to hydrate over-processed and damaged hair. Unlike ordinary clarifying shampoos, this one cleanses your scalp without stripping any moisture. The formula is quite gentle and can be used every day without worrying about split-ends or dull hair. Also, it’s great for sensitive scalps because it won’t trigger any itching or nasty allergic reactions while ensuring your hair is hydrated, moisturized, and pH balanced.
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- Sulfate-free
- Gentle formula
- Suitable for frequent use
- Hypoallergenic
- Suitable for fine hair
- Some may find the consistency thin
7. Best For Healthy Hair:MATRIX Total Results the Re-Bond Shampoo
Turn your fried and over-processed hair around with this game-changing shampoo by MATRIX. Not only does it make your scalp squeaky clean by removing any annoying product buildup, but it also primes and fortifies your bonds. This shampoo formula is targeted at hair that has been damaged due to excessive chemical processes and heat styling. We highly recommend this shampoo for people who have damaged platinum blonde/bleached hair. With consistent use and a rigorous hair care routine, your hair will start feeling soft and healthy. This is also an excellent purchase for people allergic to/overwhelmed by synthetic fragrances because the formula is unscented and won’t irritate your olfactory senses.
- Unscented
- Suitable for bleached damaged hair
- Removes product buildup
- It can be used on oily scalps
- Reduces frizz and breakage
- May trigger dandruff on dry scalps
Pro Tip8. Best For Oily Scalp:Theorie: Sage – Helichrysum & Plum – Nourishing Shampoo
Most people concentrate on the mid or ends of their hair strands when treating over-processed hair; but, not many focus on the scalp and hair follicles while cleansing. This shampoo ensures that your follicles are hydrated and your scalp is clean with every wash. It is specially formulated for chemically or heat-damaged hair that is now dry and brittle. The color-safe treatment’s formula contains natural ingredients like common sage oils, ginkgo leaf extract, and Mediterranean strawflower extract, which keep your hue from bleeding out while moisturizing your beloved tresses. Haircare professionals from all over highly recommend this purple shampoo for bleached hair, mainly to prevent it from getting brassy or looking dull/lifeless. You can use this shampoo frequently, and it will not strip any of the natural oils or leave it in a tangled mess.
- Suitable for oily scalp
- Prevents color from fading
- Suitable for bleached hair
- Detangling
- Contains natural ingredients
- Removed product buildup
- Easy to rinse
- May contain SLS
9. Best Drugstore Option:Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask
You can use this hair mask on colored hair once a week to experience soft and shiny hair. The deep conditioning formula from this dermatologist-recommended brand is designed to hydrate the driest and dullest colored hair strands and transform them into shiny, healthy locks that you won’t stop running your fingers through. It contains olive, meadowfoam, and sweet almond oil extracts that go deep within each hair strand and moisturize it to the fullest. The naturally derived ingredients also form a protective barrier around your hair, which prevents any external damage as well. We recommend that you slather on the conditioner on wet hair; after shampoo, leave it for 3 to 5 mins and wash it off to get the best results.
- Naturally derived ingredients
- Moisture retention formula
- Suitable for color-treated hair
- Hydrating and strengthening
- Shine enhancing
- Detangling
- May not be suitable for type C curly hair
10. Best For Hair Elasticity:ELC Moisture Leave-In Treatment
Suppose your hairstylist has recommended a leave-in treatment that is light and protects color-treated hair. In that case, we suggest you choose this product. Not only will it infuse some much-needed moisture into your dried strands, but it will enhance the hair’s elasticity as well. The lightweight formula contains natural ingredients like organic olive oil, pomegranate oil, and other botanical oils that protect your hair against sun damage and extend the vibrancy of your hair color. You must use this specialist-recommended product every time you use any heat styling product to maximize the color’s life. In addition, the formula is soft, has a mild scent, and is non-greasy, so you don’t have to worry about it leaving any residue after application.
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
- Elasticity restoration
- Natural moisturizing ingredients
- Extends color vibrancy
- Provides heat protection
- Mild scent
- May not be suitable for thick hair
11. Best For Split Ends:fave4 hair Repair It Right Conditioner
Now don any style with your favorite heat tool without the fear of dry, damaged hair, thanks to this leave-in conditioner that protects your strands and strengthens them as well. The lightweight, protein-rich product contains soy and rice proteins, along with lavender extract and sunflower seed oil, which protects your hair from sun damage and hydrates it from within. It is suitable for colored or chemically processed hair, and it will eliminate any frizz while taming flyaways as well. Spray all over your hair, especially at the ends, to prevent any splits before using your curling iron or blow dryer to get the desired results, which is super soft and shiny hair!
- Lightweight
- Refreshing scent
- Heat protecting
- Prevents split ends
- Provides frizz control
- Easy to apply
- May not be long lasting
Now that you are aware of the top products for over-processed hair available online, you have to know the essential components to look for when choosing one that meets all your needs. Keep reading our buying guide to know more!
How To Choose The Best Products For Over-Processed Hair
- Protection
When looking for products that can repair damaged and over-processed hair, you have to look for products offering restorative care that can protect your tresses from future damage. This will encourage a healthy and shiny new growth that will help you start new and take better care of the new growth. Also, look for products like reconstructive masks and gloss-enhancing treatments that save your hair from sun damage and styling tools, as the heat can cause the color to fade and make the hair texture all dry and brittle.
- Hydrating
Hydrating and moisturizing ingredients are crucial because they bring life to dull, lifeless strands. Look for products that have naturally derived oils because they go deep within the hair shafts and repair any damage done by heat or chemicals.
- Formula
If you want to avoid any frustrating product buildup, you need to look for professional-grade formulas that work with your hair type. For instance, if you have processed dry and curly hair, you will need detangling sprays and creamy and oil-based formulas because they will keep the strands moisturized. If you have fine hair, along with an oily scalp, then look for lightweight formulas that are non-greasy but settle well on your strands.
Infographic: Undo The Damage: 6 Care Tips To Treat Overprocessed Hair
Overprocessed hair can be annoying, especially when you do not know how to bring back its life and luster. While there are many hair care products on the market that promise great results, they may not always be effective if you do not know certain tips and tricks of hair care. The infographic below lists six tips that may help you undo the damage and treat your hair with the love and attention it deserves. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Over-processing your hair, like bleaching or coloring it, can damage your hair and dry it. Lindsay Loo, a cosmetologist, says, “Once your hair is overprocessed, there is no going back other than to maintain or cut off the damaged hair. This happens to all of us. With the above-mentioned products, you can help protect your hair from further damage.” The BIOLAGE Advanced Keratindose Pro-Keratin Renewal Spray strengthens and restores damaged hair with its advanced keratin-focused formula for long-term health. The Theorie: Sage – Helichrysum & Plum – Nourishing Shampoo achieve holistic hair care with a unique blend of sage, helichrysum, and plum extracts for scalp health and nourishment. The Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask experience deep hydration and repair through a triple oil formula, revitalizing dry and damaged hair for increased manageability. Incorporating these products into your hair care routine can help you maintain your hair and keep your tresses hydrated. In addition, they help in retaining moisture and provide frizz-free hair. Most of the products for over-processed hair on our list are sulfate-free, lightweight, and non-greasy. However, some products may not suit every hair type. Understand the buying guide given above to pick the best product that suits your hair type. Remember to first test the product you choose on a small section of your hair to check for allergies before incorporating it into your routine.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author, Kirtana Divakar, is a hair care enthusiast. She knows that dull, damaged, and chemically processed hair needs extra TLC. So, she went through hundreds of online reviews to compile a list of the best products for over-processed hair. These products are specially formulated for dry, brittle, and processed hair. They help detoxify any leftover chemicals and toxins without stripping hydration hair moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can you fix over-processed hair?
You can follow certain steps and use hydrating products that will help protect your hair in the long run as well. Here are some points you can follow:
• Use a hair mask before using a shampoo.
• Ensure that clarifying shampoo is specially made for over processed hair
• Don’t use any long-hold products as they can dry your hair
• Avoid using any heat tools
What helps fix over-processed bleached hair?
Products rich in natural botanical oils like olive, coconut, argan, sweet almond, and lavender oils help fix bleached hair as they infuse protein into the strands. You can also invest in good-quality leave-in conditioners for long-lasting hydration.
What is suitable for dry, over-processed hair?
As mentioned before, having a good and consistent hair care routine that contains natural moisturizing ingredients can help repair dry, over-processed hair.
Read full bio of Lindsay Loo
Read full bio of Kirtana Divakar
Read full bio of Shiboli Chakraborti
Read full bio of Swathi E
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