Advice for dry, damaged hair?

[JLCooper]

I've been trying to grow my hair out long for a while, but due to the fact I'm constantly straightening and dyeing my hair dark it's now beginning to get quite damaged. So I was wondering if anyone could give advice on this? Anything will help, brands and types of hair products to use/types of food to eat more of/stuff to avoid/etc.
I want my hair to look glossy and healthy again :(

Oh yes, and please don't just say something like "stop straightening your hair then", my natural hair is curly and a horrible dirty blonde colour so I am NOT going to stop dyeing and straightening. I'm just looking for alternative ways of keeping my hair looking and feeling nice.

Also, my hair is not completely dried out, It's just not as glossy and soft as it used to be which is why I'm trying to maintain it. It's also not mega curly, only mildly (sort of between wavy and curly if that makes sense?). I only dye it about once every 2 months and ALWAYS have it done professionally, not with box dyes. And every time I get it coloured I also have the ends trimmed. I probably only straighten it every other day (GHD'S are great for lasting straightness!) and when I do I always use GHD heat defence spray.
I'm not really a drinker or anything either, and I take multivitamins every day so I don't really think I'm unhealthy.

[karenmac60]

Extract of kelp is supposedly really good for your hair.

[tamborine]

Deep conditioning would replace elasticity & dryness. Look for the thickest creamiest conditioner or use L'Oreal. Apply & leave overnight (wear shower cap, keeps scalp warm & protects bed linen).

[coke71]

I have always used olive oil on my hair and am always being complimented on how shiny and healthy my hair is, and like you I have long hair which is dark brown. just rub in a small amount on your dry hair, mostly on the ends and hardly none on the scalp then cover with a warm towel leave on for as long as possible, overnight is even better (but do put a towel over your pillow) then thoroughly wash off leaving your hair really soft and shiny. I do this about once a month, it's cheap and beats any of the overpriced chemical filled high street conditioners :)

[slinkycat]

Have the same problem JL, although don't know if the red wine has anything to do with the condition of my hair! However I would recommend Aussie miracle hair insurance, its a leave in conditioner, it makes my hair feel very soft, plus it smells gorgeous!

[Ash_678]

I'd recommend the Davines hair care range. I hear that the MOMO Moisturizing Shampoo for Dry Hair and NOUNOU Nourishing Shampoo for Colour Treated Hair are particularly good for dry/damaged hair: http://www.cultbeauty.../brand156_davines.php

[laurentwink]

Take my word for it... brazlian keratin treatment, costs about 100 quid in hairdressers, my hair was very damaged and dry - it works wonders - try it!!! x

[jadeymodel]

One day I decided to go for highlights, then low lights, then a full head of blonde, then more, wee bit more, then I wanted white locks...My hair was completely dry, frizzy, bad split ends, no shine and suprisingly didnt fall out. I went back to natural brown..tried everything. serums, conditioners, intensive stuff...

Then I found...Body Shops Poppy Seed intensive hair mask. Pricey, but REALLY works. If in doubt? Like I was, ask for a sample pot to try...Guarantee you'll go back for this! x