Threads on improving overall thickness/reducing major breakage

[Ebonybunny]

hey all!

I have been looking through my pics, and while my growth is apparent length wise, my hair is so so see through.. I mean it is terrible. I feel like I have all of 2 strands of hair Also, I cant seem to not have breakage, everytime I run my fingers through my hair or even a very thick comb it looks like Im losing lost of hair idk what I should do. I am relaxed... I dont use heat anymore (been wiggin it), I have upped my moisture (which is a big problem for me).... idk what else to do, I want thickness....

 

[Ebonybunny]

Oh yeah, so my question was, are there any threads on improving thicknessness, or helping see through hair... or just advice in general?

 

[Ebonybunny]

January

March

My hair is so embarrassing... but yeah, from what I can tell I gained some length (according to my tattoo hair chart), but its so thin... I dont know what to do

 

[aquajoyice]

Hi EbonyBunny I have a few questions: How many times do you relax? Do you relax bone straight or is there still some of your own texture after relaxing? Do you use any protein in your regimen? I'm currently working on thickness and length. And have noticed a considerable amount of thickness after stretching my relaxers as well as constant deep conditioning and periodic protien treatments. Your hair has no issues gaining length, but when you say it breaks easily it makes me wonder if you need a protein treatment to strengthen your strands. I'm still a newbie to the idea of protein and i'm sure there are some ladies here that can recommend some great products. I love using natural products and will add two eggs to any conditioner I have and leave it in for 30 min as my protein treatment. Afterwards I rinse with cool water and make sure I get all of the egg out before I move on to adding moisture. Also, i'm wondering if your hair is overprocessed from the relaxers? Can you give me details about your current regimen?

 

[KinkyGenius]

I'm sure others will chime in, but my hair was incredibly thin when I graduated from undergrad. Reason being, I wore microbraids for almost all 4 years of school and it thinned my hair out something crazy. I went to college in Minnesota and it was just too hard to find a place close to campus that did "ethnic hair" (as they put it), so I kept it in braids. Destroyed my hair. Soooo the two things that helped me the most were:

1. I had SL hair and I had to cut it pretty much all off. I cut it to right below my ears and started over. My hair was damaged and my stylist told me that I'd be doing myself a disservice by holding onto it because as damaged as my hair was there was no nursing it back to life. She was right.

2. I discovered texlaxing and stretching my relaxers. I have finer hair by nature and relaxers really break the hair down quite a bit. Texlaxing and stretching (12-14 weeks) are staple techniques for me.

Welp, that's my two cents! You could try Henna, Biotin-based products and vitamins, JBCO (Jamaican Black Castor Oil) too. If you're not attached to relaxers, going natural would also probably turn your hair around.

 

[KinkyGenius]

Hi EbonyBunny I have a few questions: How many times do you relax? Do you relax bone straight or is there still some of your own texture after relaxing? Do you use any protein in your regimen? I'm currently working on thickness and length. And have noticed a considerable amount of thickness after stretching my relaxers as well as constant deep conditioning and periodic protien treatments. Your hair has no issues gaining length, but when you say it breaks easily it makes me wonder if you need a protein treatment to strengthen your strands. I'm still a newbie to the idea of protein and i'm sure there are some ladies here that can recommend some great products. I love using natural products and will add two eggs to any conditioner I have and leave it in for 30 min as my protein treatment. Afterwards I rinse with cool water and make sure I get all of the egg out before I move on to adding moisture. Also, i'm wondering if your hair is overprocessed from the relaxers? Can you give me details about your current regimen?

@ bolded, I was wondering the same.

 

[sqzbly1908]

Hi and Welcome EB!!!

AJ asked some very good questions but as a start I would recommend that you start off with a protein treatment following up with a deep moisturizing conditioner. You have a substantial amount of new growth and I am inclined to think that it maybe stressing out your already relaxed strands...

It is good that you are moisturizing but if that is all you are doing (especially with relaxed hair) then it could make your hair break ....How are you wearing your hair under your wig?

 

[Ebonybunny]

I have recently finished a 6 month stretch.....

 

[Ebonybunny]

I have been relaxing very infrequently for some time... I dont wanna cut it all off.. I mean, I cut it really really short in november

 

[KinkyGenius]

I have been relaxing very infrequently for some time... I dont wanna cut it all off.. I mean, I cut it really really short in november

Cutting it off might not be necessary. For me, it definitely was, but like you said you just cut your hair really short in November.

Like the other posters have been asking, do you do any protein treatments?

 

[Ebonybunny]

Do you relax bone straight or is there still some of your own texture after relaxing? Do you use any protein in your regimen?

I have been underproccessing some sections (not purposely) I take too long in my own opinion to relax

Your hair has no issues gaining length, but when you say it breaks easily it makes me wonder if you need a protein treatment to strengthen your strands. I'm still a newbie to the idea of protein and i'm sure there are some ladies here that can recommend some great products.

Protein is something that I have recently begun incorporating into my regimen, I have aphogee 2 min protein (I think that is what its called, the lighter one)

Also, i'm wondering if your hair is overprocessed from the relaxers? Can you give me details about your current regimen?

Sure My current regimen (as of since january):

Everyday :
Moisturize 2x w/ scurl
Seal w/ morracan oil
biotin,b-12,flaxseed oil, zinc

3-4 days a week:
Cowash w/ loreal moisture royal jelly con... yellow bottle

1x per week:
DC w/ aussie 3 min miracle or hotoil treatment

2x per month:
aphogee 2min, or egg dc

Every 12-16 weeks (but last stretch was 24 weeks):
relax.... no consistent relaxer

also.... my hair is not naturally black (bigen, but I've only dyed once, and that was when I cut my hair short in November)

 

[nymane]

^^ I don't think you have to cut it off...you just need to figure out why it's breaking. What's your regimen?

I don't know much about wigs, but make sure you have a protective barrier between your hair & the wig so that it doesn't cause breakage.

eta: okay i see it

 

[Ebonybunny]

Hi and Welcome EB!!!

AJ asked some very good questions but as a start I would recommend that you start off with a protein treatment following up with a deep moisturizing conditioner. You have a substantial amount of new growth and I am inclined to think that it maybe stressing out your already relaxed strands...

It is good that you are moisturizing but if that is all you are doing (especially with relaxed hair) then it could make your hair break ....How are you wearing your hair under your wig?

As far as the new growth, the first pic was taken in January before I did a touch up. The second was in march post touch up.

before I put my half wigs on, I mosturize w/ scurl, sometimes ltr, and I put my hair in bantus, the wig never comes out lumpy looking or anything

 

[nymane]

Maybe you should incorporate aphogee 2-step every 6-8 weeks (followed by a moisture DC...until the breakage subsides

When I started I had extreme breakage and aphogee 2-step really helped (with continued use)

 

[Ebonybunny]

Maybe you should incorporate aphogee 2-step every 6-8 weeks (followed by a moisture DC...until the breakage subsides

When I started I had extreme breakage and aphogee 2-step really helped (with continued use)

That is the stronger protein treatment right? I guess I should really up my protein erplexed

 

[Ebonybunny]

there are eggs in my hair now thanks everyone, hopefully protein is all I need to work on. I am starting mn on friday... maybe that will help as well ....

 

[aquajoyice]

I have been underproccessing some sections (not purposely) I take too long in my own opinion to relax



Protein is something that I have recently begun incorporating into my regimen, I have aphogee 2 min protein (I think that is what its called, the lighter one)



Sure My current regimen (as of since january):

Everyday :
Moisturize 2x w/ scurl
Seal w/ morracan oil
biotin,b-12,flaxseed oil, zinc

3-4 days a week:
Cowash w/ loreal moisture royal jelly con... yellow bottle

1x per week:
DC w/ aussie 3 min miracle or hotoil treatment

2x per month:
aphogee 2min, or egg dc

Every 12-16 weeks (but last stretch was 24 weeks):
relax.... no consistent relaxer

also.... my hair is not naturally black (bigen, but I've only dyed once, and that was when I cut my hair short in November)

Your regimen sounds really good just make sure you use a consistant relaxer. I take relaxer really seriously as a chemical and know that mixing and matching relaxers doesn't sound like a good idea. I've only used one relaxer since high school because my hair had an adverse reaction to a store bought relaxer. So be carfeful when using this or any chemical. I would think that since you've been on this regimen since January it may take a little time to really see a difference. Just make sure when you are using the relaxer to base your scalp and previously relaxed hair. I use vaseline, but that's just me you can find a base that works well for you. Also make sure that when you relax try to ensure that your timing it so that all of your hair is being processed for the same amount of time. I usually relax my hair in sections to make sure the relaxer is processed for an approx amount of time. I also add extra virgin olive oil and a protien into my relaxer to help the hair while processesing. Seems like your hair is in a very delicate stage but like I said your reggie sounds good. Just look at other things your doing that could be the culprit like your relaxing and even detangling methods. I hope this gives you a little insight on things you can change with your reggie.

 

[aquajoyice]

That is the stronger protein treatment right? I guess I should really up my protein erplexed

Just be careful when using protien because you don't want to have a protein overload. This could cause breakage and or shedding if you use too much. As recommended by some ladies here on this site you can use garlic supplements and or garlic shampoo to curb extreme shedding. Just make slight changes so you can pin point when something is working or isn 't working. I think the biggest issue is your relaxing techniques. Also, when your stretching your relaxers make sure you handle your hair with care. I did a 6 month stretch which resulted in a set-back after not properly detangling. So be extra careful with your hair for the next 6 months and try to see what your hair likes and dislikes.

 

[Geminigirl]

hey all!

I have been looking through my pics, and while my growth is apparent length wise, my hair is so so see through.. I mean it is terrible. I feel like I have all of 2 strands of hair Also, I cant seem to not have breakage, everytime I run my fingers through my hair or even a very thick comb it looks like Im losing lost of hair idk what I should do. I am relaxed... I dont use heat anymore (been wiggin it), I have upped my moisture (which is a big problem for me).... idk what else to do, I want thickness....

OMG ((((HUGS)))) I am going to make a post JUST like this. Me and you are here >< right now. I feel your pain. I am going through the same issues. I came on here to make my post and saw yours. I hope you get some good advice.

 

[HairSupremacy]

Ebonybunny, your hair looks so much how my hair looks at this moment. I am gaining length, but my hair is not as thick as I want it. I have started using Nioxin and it seems to be helping a little bit. I am only on my 4th use on it. I will keep checking this thread for more tips, but you hair is definitely improving, so don't be discouraged.

 

[ajoyfuljoy]

Hi OP. You know when I first started on the board I had to use the heavy protein. Everytime I combed my hair, there were like 40-60 broken pieces that would fall to the floor. It was horrible and my hair was very damaged.

So, like someone else said, it might be worth it to check out the heavy protein until your hair outgrows it and needs a lighter protein. You will know when this happens b/c it will feel like the heavy protein treatment isn't doing anything.

 

[Anew]

relaxers just tend to thin me out period. i'm 8 months post and just got a press and a trim and it finally looks thick from root to tip even at this length. at one time once i got past SL it seemed to thin out. no longer APL but less than an inch away and its thicker than its ever been in a long time

 

[goodmorningruby]

My hair is the thickest it has ever been while processed. I have fine hair, so it's not technically thick strand-wise, but it appears very thick. I texlax and stretch my relaxers for 6 months in between touch ups. I attribute my success to those two things. Also, I use direct heat in moderation and limit brushing, combing, etc. So basically not relaxing bone straight, long term stretching, and low manipulation are my suggestions in addition to other LHCF basics (e.g. protein/moisture balance).

I just read your regimen and I think you should find a relaxer that gives you the best results and is conducive to your hair health. Then stick to it. I'm also concerned that cowashing 3-4 times a week could be too much manipulation for your hair.

 

[locabouthair]

Make sure you are taking out the combs in your wig. Use bobby pins instead.

 

[The Princess]

All the information that they have given is on point. I have notice, when I don't use protein like I should, I see breakage. Just recently, I worked out and sweated alot, my hair was wet and soft=mushy. Then I added more moisture to my hair. The next three days my hair was breaking like crazy. I immediately DC with a protein conditioner and problem resolved. You have to know your hair and keep that protein/moisture balance.

HTH

GoodLuck and stay positive.

 

[Ebonybunny]

3-4 times a week could be too much manipulation for your hair.

Actually, its interesting that you mention that, it seems my hair is more prone to tangle after any cowash/wash.... and tangling for me almost inevitably means major loss. When my hair tangles, it is extremely hard to detangle (for me atleast..)

 

[goodmorningruby]

Actually, its interesting that you mention that, it seems my hair is more prone to tangle after any cowash/wash.... and tangling for me almost inevitably means major loss. When my hair tangles, it is extremely hard to detangle (for me atleast..)

How are you detangling? Are you doing it in sections? How do you achieve "slip"? What kind of comb or brush are you using? How often?

 

[lovenharmony]

I'll say the 5 things I did in order to thicken up my strands

1. Stretch my relaxers for 6 months or more (I'm actually transitioning right now)
2. Cut out direct heat! . Those flat irons, blowdryers and curling irons can do a number on your hair!
3. Protein treatments. I'm actually protien sensitive, but silk amino acids, a different form of protein worked wonders on my hair
4. Airdrying (another way of limiting the amount of heat on your hair)
5. Protective styling. Placing your hair up and tucked away allows your hair to "rest". Wigs are not actually a protective style unless your hair is braided underneath IMO.

The ultimate way to gain thickness would be to go natural, but I understand that is not for everyone. HTH

 

[Ebonybunny]

How are you detangling? Are you doing it in sections? How do you achieve "slip"? What kind of comb or brush are you using? How often?

I detangle after I wash it, and not so often erplexed Im just too scared to lose hair

 

[ElegantPearl17]

Suscribing to this thread! I'm also have thin hair. I'm so disgusted that I thinking about cutting about 2 inches off..ughh!