Fried Hair Vs. Healthy Hair — Here’s How to Tell If Your Hair Is Damaged

You’ve just finished styling your hair and notice hair loss or breakage — a lot more than you expected to. Whether it’s near your hairline or in an inconspicuous spot in a lower layer near the back of your head, it’s scary and worrisome to find hair that looks like you might have fried it.

While it may be easy to tell the difference between damaged hair and healthy hair for professionals, many of us may rush to conclusions and assume, well, guess I fried my hair. The truth is, sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish fried hair vs. healthy hair, and maybe your hair isn’t as damaged as you think.

Difference Between Fried Hair and Healthy Hair

So, have you just fried your hair? We’re going to break down the differences between healthy and fried hair so you can tell for sure the state of your hair and decide how to address it.

Keep reading to learn all the tell-tale signs that hairstylists use to tell the difference between damaged hair and healthy hair!

The Stretch Test

People with color-treated hair need to be able to stay on top of determining the state of their hair. When it comes to healthy hair vs. damaged hair, one of the easiest ways to tell the difference is the stretch test.

If you’ve noticed your hair falling out recently, that can be pretty alarming. But before you jump to conclusions about the cause, take some of the lost hair and stretch it between your fingers. Pull the strand until it breaks.

While elasticity, especially for wet hair, is normal and healthy, if you notice a distinct stretching of your hair similar to something you’d get from a rubber band, then there is definite damage involved.

On the other hand, if it also breaks without any stretching whatsoever, you’re probably dealing with extensive dryness.

This is because the strength of your hair is determined by the protein bonds within the strands themselves. When these break down, the natural flexibility of your hair is compromised. If your hair is too stretchy, seek out a protein treatment.