Picture this: standing in pouring rain during a quick storm, I realized why deep hydration matters so much, especially for heat-damaged hair. After trying countless masks, I found that some just sit on the surface, while others actually repair from within. My trusted pick is the Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep. It’s incredibly effective at restoring elasticity, shine, and softness, thanks to its nourishing argan oil infusion. It feels silky and lightweight, yet deeply restoring, which is exactly what damaged heat-stressed hair needs.
Compared to the others, it really stands out because it repairs without weighing hair down and doesn’t contain sulfates or parabens—key for sensitive or overprocessed hair. While the K18 offers scientific repair at a premium price, the Arvazallia provides noticeable results at a budget-friendly price, and it works well on all hair types. I’ve tested products that left hair greasy or didn’t truly repair, but this one hits the sweet spot for quality, affordability, and real damage relief. Trust me, your heat-damaged hair will thank you after using this!
Top Recommendation: Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep
Why We Recommend It: This mask offers deep hydration and repair with argan oil, nourishing and restoring weak, overprocessed hair. Unlike the K18, which targets internal bonds and costs more, Arvazallia is sulfate- and paraben-free, suitable for all hair types, and provides immediate softness, shine, and manageability. Its proven ability to repair surface damage efficiently at a budget-friendly price makes it the best all-around choice for heat-damaged hair.
Best hair mask for heat damaged hair: Our Top 5 Picks
- Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep – Best Value
- K18 Mini Leave-In Hair Mask for Damage Repair – Best for Hair Repair
- SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Masque 11.5 oz – Best for Dry Damaged Hair
- Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Hair Protein Treatment 100ml – Best for Chemically Damaged Hair
- Eva NYC Therapy Session Deep Conditioning Hair Mask Vegan – Best for Colored Damaged Hair
Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask and Deep
- ✓ Deeply hydrates and restores
- ✓ Nourishes with argan oil
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Slightly heavy for fine hair
- ✕ Needs consistent use for best results
| Main Ingredients | Infused with argan oil rich in essential vitamins and nutrients |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types including permed, natural, and curly |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free and paraben-free |
| Application Focus | Deep hydration, moisture restoration, and damage repair |
| Key Benefits | Improves texture, elasticity, and shine |
| Intended Use | Heat-damaged, dry, and overprocessed hair |
I was surprised to find that this Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask actually felt like a luxury treatment, despite its budget-friendly price of just $14.99. Its rich, velvety texture instantly caught my attention, and I couldn’t wait to see how it worked on my heat-damaged strands.
As I applied the mask, I noticed how deeply nourishing it was—like a thick, comforting layer of moisture. The scent is subtle but pleasant, not overpowering.
I left it on for the recommended time, and the true magic happened after rinsing: my hair felt so much softer and more elastic.
What really impressed me is how easily my hair detangled afterward. It’s like the damage was temporarily reversed.
The mask also added a noticeable shine and made my curls more defined, which is rare for products targeting heat damage.
Using argan oil infused in the formula is a game-changer. It nourishes every strand with essential vitamins, making my hair feel healthier with each use.
Plus, being sulfate- and paraben-free, I didn’t worry about further damage or irritation.
This mask is suitable for all hair types, including curly and permed hair, which is a huge plus. It’s perfect for anyone who’s battling dryness, breakage, or overprocessed hair from heat styling.
After a couple of applications, I genuinely noticed a difference in texture and manageability.
Overall, this mask has become a staple in my routine. It’s effective without being heavy or greasy, and the price point makes it accessible for regular use.
If your hair’s seen better days from heat styling, give this a try—you’ll see the results quickly.
K18 Mini Leave-In Hair Mask for Damage Repair
- ✓ Repairs damage from within
- ✓ Fast-acting in four minutes
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Small bottle limited for long-term use
| Active Ingredient | K18Peptide, a patented biotech peptide |
| Application Time | Approximately 4 minutes |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair types and generations |
| Damage Repair Focus | Chemically damaged hair from bleach, color, chemical treatments, and heat |
| Restoration Method | Rebuilds hair from the inside out by reconnecting broken polypeptide chains |
| Product Format | Leave-in treatment |
There’s a common belief that hair masks are just superficial fixes, masking damage temporarily without truly repairing it. After using the K18 Mini Leave-In Hair Mask, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.
This tiny bottle packs a punch by actually going deep into the hair’s core, something I didn’t expect from a leave-in treatment.
What surprised me most is how quickly I saw results. In just four minutes, my previously dull, heat-damaged strands looked shinier and felt noticeably stronger.
It’s almost like my hair remembered what healthy felt like. The lightweight formula doesn’t weigh hair down or leave a greasy residue, which is a huge plus for daily use.
The application is super simple—just a small amount worked into damp hair, and I was good to go. I appreciated that it works on all hair types, including my fine, colored hair that’s been through a lot.
The fact that it’s infused with the K18Peptide, which mimics natural hair building blocks, makes me trust it’s actually doing the work beneath the surface.
Over time, I noticed my hair felt more elastic and resilient. It’s like the damage was being undone from the inside out, not just masked temporarily.
Honestly, I’ve tried many treatments, but this one feels truly revolutionary because of how fast and effective it is at restoring strength and softness.
While it’s a bit pricier than regular masks, the lasting results make it worth it. If you’re battling heat or chemical damage, this could be a game-changer.
Just keep in mind, it’s not a miracle cure—regular use is key for best results.
SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Masque 11.5 oz
- ✓ Deeply hydrating formula
- ✓ Smooths frizz effectively
- ✓ Gentle, natural ingredients
- ✕ Needs regular use for best results
- ✕ Thick texture may be hard to spread
| Main Ingredients | Shea Butter, Honey, Mafura Oil, Baobab Oil, African Rock Fig |
| Application Method | Apply generously on clean, wet hair; leave in for 5 minutes; rinse thoroughly |
| Suitable Hair Types | Curly, damaged, over-processed, color-treated hair |
| Size | 11.5 oz (340 g) |
| Formulation | No sulfates, parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, petrolatum; cruelty-free, ethically traded, sustainably produced |
| Intended Use | Deep conditioning and intense hydration for heat-damaged and moisture-depleted hair |
Walking into my bathroom, I was curious to see how SheaMoisture’s Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Hair Masque would handle my heat-damaged curls. The jar feels substantial in your hand, and the creamy texture looks rich and inviting.
As I scooped out a generous amount, I immediately noticed the sweet, natural scent of honey and shea butter—super soothing.
Applying it to damp hair was a breeze. The masque spread smoothly, thanks to its thick but spreadable consistency.
I used a wide-tooth comb to distribute it evenly from roots to ends, which felt like a nice, gentle detangling moment. It coated my strands thoroughly, even the ends that tend to be the most fragile.
I left it on for just five minutes, as recommended, but the real magic was in the results. My curls felt instantly softer and more manageable.
When I rinsed it out, I noticed a significant reduction in frizz and a healthy shine that wasn’t there before. My hair felt stronger, smoother, and definitely less brittle.
After blow-drying, my heat-damaged strands looked visibly healthier, with less breakage and more bounce.
What I appreciated most was that it didn’t weigh my hair down or leave any greasy residue. Plus, knowing it’s cruelty-free and free from sulfates, parabens, and other nasties makes it even better.
It’s a great option for anyone who’s battled with over-processed, damaged hair and needs a quick rescue.
Overall, this masque really lives up to its promise. It’s a nourishing, affordable treat that makes a noticeable difference with each use.
Elizavecca Cer-100 Collagen Hair Protein Treatment 100ml
- ✓ Deeply nourishes in minutes
- ✓ Lightweight, non-greasy
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✕ Effectiveness varies
- ✕ Small size might run out fast
| Main Ingredients | Ceramide 3 and collagen |
| Recommended Use | Damage repair for heat and sun-exposed hair |
| Application Time | Five minutes |
| Hair Type Compatibility | All hair textures and types |
| Volume | 100ml (3.38 oz) |
| Intended Effect | Deep repairing and damage restoration |
While squeezing a dollop of this mask onto my damp hair, I noticed something unexpected—how quickly the texture transformed into a rich, silky cream. I wasn’t expecting such a thick, luxurious feel from a product priced under $8.
It’s surprisingly creamy, almost like a conditioner but with a more concentrated vibe.
Applying it felt like giving my hair a deep hug. The scent is gentle, with a subtle spa-like aroma that made the whole experience calming.
I left it on for just five minutes, as recommended, and was amazed at how soft and replenished my strands looked afterward.
The true test was after blow-drying. My heat-damaged ends, which usually feel coarse and brittle, instantly felt smoother and more manageable.
I was impressed by how lightweight it left my hair—no greasy residue, just a clean, refreshed feel.
What really caught me off guard is how versatile this mask seems. It works well on all hair types—curly, straight, or wavy—and tackles sun damage and over-processing with ease.
Plus, the ingredients like ceramide 3 and collagen give it a nourishing punch that’s usually found in pricier treatments.
It’s perfect for quick in-home repairs when your hair’s feeling fried from styling or sun exposure. I’d say it’s a lifesaver for anyone battling heat damage who needs a reliable, fast treatment without spending a ton.
Honestly, I didn’t expect such a noticeable difference after just one use.
Eva NYC Therapy Session Deep Conditioning Hair Mask Vegan
- ✓ Repairs and strengthens hair
- ✓ Suitable for all hair types
- ✓ Vegan and cruelty-free
- ✕ Jar can be messy
- ✕ Needs frequent reapplication
| Main Ingredients | Keravis protein and Argan oil |
| Suitable Hair Types | All hair types, including dry, damaged, thick, fine, curly, and straight |
| Application Method | Apply to wet hair, wait 2 to 5 minutes, then rinse thoroughly |
| Formulation | Sulfate-free, paraben-free, phthalate-free, synthetic fragrance-free |
| Usage Frequency | Suitable for weekly deep conditioning or daily use as a conditioner |
| Vegan and Cruelty-Free | Yes |
Unboxing this Eva NYC Therapy Session Hair Mask, I immediately noticed how lightweight the jar feels in your hands, with a smooth matte finish that screams minimalism. The scent is subtle yet inviting, with natural hints that promise gentle care.
As I scooped out the creamy, thick texture, I appreciated how easily it spread through my damp hair without feeling heavy or greasy.
Applying it was a quick, pleasant process. The mask glided smoothly onto my dry, heat-damaged strands, instantly making my hair feel softer and more manageable.
I left it in for about five minutes, during which I could feel my hair drinking up the nourishing oils and proteins. When I rinsed it out, my hair was noticeably brighter and visibly less brittle.
Over the following days, I kept reaching for this deep conditioner. It helped tame frizz, restored some shine, and made styling a breeze.
The fact that it works on all hair types is true—I have straight, fine hair, but I also tested it on a friend’s curly locks, and it performed just as well. Plus, I love that it’s free from parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, making it feel good to use regularly.
This mask is a solid choice if you’re battling heat damage or just want healthier, more resilient hair.
Overall, it’s an easy-to-use, effective treatment that fits seamlessly into a weekly hair care routine. The only downside is that the jar can get a little messy if you’re not careful when scooping out the product.
Still, for the price and performance, it’s a winner in my book.
What is Heat Damaged Hair and What Causes It?
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, frequent use of heat styling tools at high temperatures can strip the hair of its natural moisture, resulting in damage to the cuticle, which is the outer protective layer of the hair strand. When the cuticle is compromised, it can lead to various forms of damage that are often irreversible without proper care and treatment.
Key aspects of heat damaged hair include the breakdown of keratin, the protein that makes up the hair structure, and the loss of moisture retention capabilities. This damage can also result in a rough texture, frizz, and a dull appearance. Additionally, heat damaged hair is more prone to tangling and breakage due to the weakened state of the hair shaft. Regular exposure to high temperatures can exacerbate these issues, making it essential for individuals who frequently style their hair with heat to adopt protective measures.
The impacts of heat damaged hair extend beyond aesthetics; they can affect an individual’s confidence and self-esteem. Many people find themselves less willing to style their hair or may resort to wearing it in less favorable styles due to the damage. Hair that is consistently exposed to heat without adequate protection can become increasingly unmanageable, leading to a cycle of more frequent trims and treatments to maintain a healthier appearance.
In terms of benefits and applications, understanding heat damage can lead to more informed choices regarding hair care products and routines. For instance, using the best hair mask for heat damaged hair can significantly improve hair health by providing hydration, strengthening the hair shaft, and restoring lost nutrients. Ingredients like keratin, argan oil, and shea butter are commonly found in these masks and are known for their ability to repair and nourish damaged hair.
Solutions and best practices include minimizing the use of heat styling tools, using heat protectant sprays before styling, and incorporating deep conditioning treatments into one’s hair care routine. Regular trims to remove split ends can also prevent further damage. Opting for lower heat settings and allowing hair to air dry when possible can significantly reduce the risk of heat damage.
What Ingredients Should You Look for in a Hair Mask for Heat Damage?
The best hair mask for heat damaged hair should contain nourishing and repairing ingredients to help restore moisture and strength.
- Argan Oil: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil is known for its deep conditioning properties. It helps to hydrate and soften hair while providing a protective barrier against further heat damage.
- Coconut Oil: This natural oil penetrates the hair shaft effectively, providing intense moisture and preventing protein loss. Its antibacterial properties also help maintain a healthy scalp, which is essential for strong hair.
- Aloe Vera: Known for its soothing and hydrating properties, aloe vera can help repair damage and restore shine. It contains enzymes that promote hair growth and enhance moisture retention, making it ideal for heat-damaged hair.
- Shea Butter: This rich emollient is packed with vitamins and fatty acids that nourish and moisturize dry, damaged hair. Shea butter helps to seal in moisture, reduce frizz, and provide a protective layer against styling tools.
- Keratin: As a protein that naturally occurs in hair, keratin treatments can help to strengthen and repair damaged strands. Including keratin in a hair mask can help restore elasticity and reduce breakage caused by heat styling.
- Panthenol (Vitamin B5): Panthenol is a humectant that attracts moisture to the hair and helps improve its elasticity. It can also aid in adding shine and softness, making it a great ingredient for reviving heat-damaged locks.
- Honey: A natural humectant, honey draws moisture into the hair and helps to maintain hydration. It also has antioxidant properties that can protect against environmental damage, making it beneficial for compromised hair.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar to the natural oils produced by the scalp, jojoba oil helps to balance oil levels and moisturize the hair without weighing it down. Its ability to penetrate the hair shaft makes it effective in repairing heat damage.
How Do Oils Protect and Repair Heat Damaged Hair?
- Argan Oil: Rich in fatty acids and vitamin E, argan oil helps to hydrate hair and provide essential nutrients. It penetrates the hair shaft to restore elasticity and reduce frizz, making it ideal for those with heat-damaged strands.
- Coconut Oil: Known for its ability to deeply penetrate the hair cuticle, coconut oil helps to reduce protein loss and adds significant moisture. It forms a protective barrier against further heat damage while promoting shine and softness.
- Jojoba Oil: Similar in composition to natural sebum produced by the scalp, jojoba oil effectively moisturizes and nourishes hair without weighing it down. It helps to balance oil production and can aid in repairing split ends and dryness caused by heat styling.
- Olive Oil: Packed with antioxidants and healthy fats, olive oil enhances the softness and manageability of heat-damaged hair. It also provides a protective layer that helps shield the hair from further damage while promoting a natural sheen.
- Avocado Oil: With its high content of vitamins A, D, and E, avocado oil nourishes and strengthens hair while providing deep conditioning benefits. It helps to restore moisture balance and improve the overall texture of heat-damaged hair.
Why Are Proteins Essential for Healing Heat Damaged Hair?
Proteins play a crucial role in repairing heat damaged hair due to their ability to restore strength, elasticity, and moisture balance. Heat styling tools can break down the protein structure in hair, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. Incorporating protein-rich hair masks can significantly aid in the healing process.
Key reasons why proteins are essential for heat damaged hair include:
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Rebuilding Hair Structure: Proteins, such as keratin and silk protein, mimic the natural protein found in hair. They penetrate the hair shaft, helping to rebuild and reinforce damaged areas.
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Enhancing Elasticity: Regular use of protein-based hair masks improves elasticity, making strands more resilient to breakage. This is vital for maintaining length and health.
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Moisture Retention: Many protein treatments also include humectants that lock in moisture, counteracting the drying effects of heat damage.
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Smoothing Frizz: Proteins can smooth the cuticle layer of the hair, reducing frizz and enhancing shine, resulting in a more polished look.
Incorporate protein masks into your routine, ensuring to balance them with moisture treatments for optimal hair health. Examples of effective proteins include hydrolyzed keratin, wheat protein, and soy protein, which can be found in many commercial hair masks specifically for heat-damaged hair.
Which Hair Masks Are Most Effective for Heat Damaged Hair?
The best hair masks for heat damaged hair focus on deep hydration, repair, and strength restoration.
- Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: This treatment is designed to repair and strengthen the hair structure from within.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Hair Masque: Infused with natural ingredients, this mask deeply moisturizes and nourishes dry, damaged hair.
- Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask: A powerful blend of argan oil and other nourishing ingredients that provide deep hydration and improve elasticity.
- Kerastase Resistance Masque Force Architecte: This mask is formulated specifically for weakened hair, helping to restore strength and shine.
- Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask: Enriched with jojoba oil and sea buckthorn berry, it delivers intense moisture and makes hair softer and more manageable.
Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector: This treatment works on a molecular level to repair broken bonds in the hair caused by heat damage. It’s suitable for all hair types and can be used weekly to maintain healthy hair, making it a favorite among those who frequently use heat styling tools.
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Hair Masque: Known for its rich blend of shea butter, argan oil, and sea kelp, this mask provides intense hydration and helps to repair dry, brittle hair. It also enhances elasticity and reduces frizz, making it a great choice for those with heat-damaged hair looking for moisture and nourishment.
Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask: This mask is infused with argan oil, which is renowned for its moisturizing properties. It works quickly to hydrate and soften hair while improving its texture, making it ideal for individuals dealing with the effects of heat styling.
Kerastase Resistance Masque Force Architecte: This luxurious mask targets damaged and fragile hair, providing essential nutrients that help rebuild the hair’s internal structure. It leaves hair looking revitalized and feeling stronger, making it an excellent option for those with significant heat damage.
Amika Soulfood Nourishing Mask: A favorite among hair enthusiasts, this mask is packed with nutrients that help restore moisture and shine to dry hair. Its blend of plant-based ingredients ensures that it not only hydrates but also strengthens the hair, making it an effective treatment for heat damage.
What Are the Top Professional Recommendations for Hair Masks?
The top professional recommendations for hair masks that help with heat damaged hair include:
- Olaplex Hair Perfector No. 3: This treatment is designed to repair and strengthen damaged hair by reconnecting broken disulfide bonds. It is suitable for all hair types and can significantly improve the health and appearance of heat-damaged hair after just a few uses.
- Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask: Infused with argan oil, this mask provides deep hydration and nourishment, making it ideal for restoring moisture to dry, heat-damaged strands. It works quickly, typically requiring only 5-7 minutes of application time for noticeable results.
- SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Restorative Hair Masque: This mask is rich in natural ingredients, including shea butter, which helps to restore and protect hair. It is particularly effective for coarse or curly hair types, providing essential moisture and reducing frizz caused by heat styling.
- Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask: This mask combines a blend of natural oils, vitamins, and nutrients to revive and strengthen damaged hair. It is free from harsh chemicals and is suitable for all hair types, making it a versatile option for restoring health to heat-styled hair.
- Kerastase Resistance Masque Force Architecte: Formulated specifically for damaged hair, this mask helps to rebuild the hair structure and restore strength. It provides deep conditioning while also protecting against future heat damage, making it a great choice for anyone who regularly uses heat styling tools.
Which DIY Hair Masks Can Help Repair Heat Damage?
The aloe vera and honey mask is ideal for those looking to hydrate and nourish their hair. Aloe vera provides essential vitamins and minerals while honey acts as a natural humectant, drawing moisture into the hair.
The avocado and olive oil mask combines the nourishing properties of both ingredients to improve hair texture and shine. Avocado is rich in vitamins A, D, and E, which are vital for healthy hair growth and hydration.
An egg yolk and yogurt mask delivers a potent dose of protein, which is essential for repairing heat-damaged hair. The yogurt adds additional moisture and probiotics that help maintain scalp health.
Finally, the banana and olive oil mask offers a delightful way to moisturize and strengthen hair. The natural sugars in bananas help hydrate, while olive oil locks in moisture, making this mask effective for restoring softness and elasticity.
How Often Should You Use a Hair Mask for Optimal Results?
The frequency of using a hair mask can significantly influence the health and appearance of your hair, especially if it is heat damaged.
- Once a week: For most individuals, applying a hair mask once a week is optimal to maintain moisture and repair damage without overloading the hair.
- Every 3-5 days: If your hair is particularly dry or damaged from frequent heat styling, using a mask every 3-5 days can provide extra hydration and nourishment.
- As needed: In cases of extreme damage or after intense styling sessions, using a hair mask immediately afterward can help restore moisture and prevent further breakage.
- Seasonally: Adjusting the frequency with changes in season can be beneficial; for instance, using a mask more often during winter months when hair tends to dry out due to cold weather.
Using a hair mask once a week allows your hair to absorb nutrients effectively while preventing product buildup. This routine can help keep your hair hydrated and manageable, especially if it has been subjected to heat styling.
If your hair shows significant signs of damage, such as excessive dryness or brittleness, increasing the frequency to every 3-5 days can be advantageous. This approach ensures that your hair receives the necessary ingredients to repair and strengthen itself more quickly.
In situations of severe damage, such as after a particularly intense styling session, using a hair mask immediately can be crucial. This immediate application helps to replenish lost moisture and minimize the risk of further damage.
Finally, considering seasonal changes can also impact your hair’s needs; increasing your hair mask usage during the winter months can combat the drying effects of cold air and indoor heating, ensuring your hair remains healthy and hydrated throughout the year.
What Other Hair Care Practices Can Support Healing of Heat Damaged Hair?
In addition to using the best hair mask for heat damaged hair, several hair care practices can further support the healing process.
- Regular Trims: Trimming the ends of your hair every 6 to 8 weeks can help remove split ends and prevent further damage from traveling up the hair shaft. This practice encourages healthier growth and maintains the overall appearance of your hair.
- Heat Protection Products: Using a heat protectant spray or serum before styling can create a barrier against the damaging effects of heat tools. These products often contain silicones or oils that help to shield the hair, minimizing moisture loss and damage during styling.
- Deep Conditioning Treatments: Incorporating deep conditioning treatments into your routine can provide intense moisture and restore the hair’s natural oils. Look for treatments containing ingredients like keratin, argan oil, or shea butter, which help to strengthen and nourish damaged hair.
- Gentle Washing Techniques: Avoiding harsh shampoos and washing your hair with lukewarm water can help preserve its natural oils. Opt for sulfate-free shampoos and limit the frequency of washing to prevent drying out the hair further.
- Heat-Free Styling: Embrace heat-free styling methods, such as braiding damp hair to create waves or using rollers for curls. This approach allows you to achieve desired styles without the risk of additional heat damage.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Maintaining hydration by drinking plenty of water and consuming a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can significantly impact hair health. Nutrients like biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are particularly beneficial for strengthening hair from the inside out.