Hair weathering, Part 2: Clinical features, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment

Hair weathering is the deterioration of the hair shaft from root to tip due to cosmetic and environmental factors. In weathered hair, structural damage to the hair fiber causes the cuticle to become raised and porous, exposing the cortex to further damage. A decrease in hair shine, elasticity, and strength is observed, with ultimate hair breakage. The clinical presentations of hair weathering include trichorrhexis nodosa, trichoclasis, trichoschisis, trichoptilosis, bubble hair, trichonodosis, hair matting, and peripilar keratin casts. The main standards for the prevention and treatment of hair weathering include avoidance of unnecessary or damaging hairstyling techniques, regular haircuts, shampooing and conditioning, and regular use of photoprotection. This article provides an overview of the clinical features, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of the condition.