What are the white dots in dead hair?

Ever noticed tiny white dots along your hair strands and wondered what they are? These white dots are often a sign of damaged hair, and understanding their causes and how to treat them is essential for maintaining healthy hair. Let’s delve into this common hair issue with the expertise from Solihull Hairdresser at Salon No. 100, providing insights on what these dots signify, their causes, preventive measures, and solutions.

Understanding White Dots

What Are They?

The white dots you observe near the ends of your hair strands are typically known as trichorrhexis nodosa, a type of hair breakage. These dots indicate points where the hair has become weak and is likely to break off. This condition is often a symptom of damage caused by chemical treatments, excessive heat styling, or mechanical stress like aggressive brushing.

The Structure of Damaged Hair

Under a microscope, these areas show a constricted site where the hair shaft has thinned before breaking. This is often accompanied by fraying of the hair shaft, which visually contributes to the appearance of split ends and frizziness.

Causes of White Dots

Over-Processing

Chemical processes such as bleaching, dyeing, and perming are common culprits behind the formation of white dots. These treatments can strip hair of its natural oils and proteins, weakening the hair shaft.

Heat Damage

Regular use of heat styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers at high temperatures can also lead to these white spots by weakening the keratin structure of the hair.

Mechanical Stress

Excessive brushing, particularly with poor-quality brushes, and rough towel drying can mechanically stress the hair and cause breakage points that eventually form white dots.

Preventing White Dots

Reducing Chemical and Heat Exposure

One of the most effective ways to prevent the formation of white dots is to minimise the use of harsh chemical treatments and reduce the frequency and temperature of heat styling. Solihull Hairdressers at Salon No. 100 recommend using thermal protectant products and ensuring that any chemical treatments are done professionally to maintain hair integrity.

Proper Hair Care Techniques

Using a wide-tooth comb to detangle wet hair gently, avoiding harsh brushing, and patting hair dry instead of rubbing it can significantly reduce mechanical stress. Regularly trimming hair can also help keep it healthy and free of split ends and white dots.

Treating White Dots

Professional Advice and Treatments

Visiting a professional hairdresser like those at Salon No. 100 can provide tailored advice and treatments. Salon treatments such as deep conditioning masks and bond-building therapies can help restore hair strength and resilience.

At-Home Care

Incorporating restorative hair care products into your routine, such as leave-in conditioners, hair masks, and oils rich in essential nutrients, can help repair damaged hair and prevent further breakage.

Conclusion

The white dots in your hair are a signal from your hair that it needs more gentle care. By understanding and addressing the underlying causes, you can restore your hair’s health and prevent future damage. Remember, the key to avoiding these issues lies in regular maintenance and professional advice from your trusted Solihull Hairdresser at Salon No. 100.

For the best haircut in Solihull, look no further than Salon No. 100! Serving clients from Olton, Shirley, Knowle, Elmdon, Eastcote, Hall Green, Bickenhill, Cheswick Green, Sheldon, Dorridge, we’ve gathered hundreds of five-star reviews over the past few years. Call 07966105306 and book your appointment today!