Hi Oracle,

In the ultimate growing guide it says the first step is to cut off all damaged hair.

Please help me.  What a quagmire. (I'm sure that is misspelled!) :'( :'( :'(

My hair just barely touches my shoulders and is almost all one length with no bangs.  But last summer I had it bleached very blonde so the last 3-4 inches are still bleached.  If I cut off all the damage I will have to layer it pretty severely.  I've been conditioning, hoping to make it past shoulder length and then start cutting off the bleached part.  I can just now make a good ponytail.

It feels like straw, as I sit here with mayonnaise on my towel-wrapped head.

I want someone to talk me out of cutting it, but if it would be better to cut it and get it over with- well,
I need some guidance.  Conditioner or scissors? ???

Thank you,
Strawberryfine
12/16/36
1c/2a Fii

Both :)

You'd probably be surprised how much of your hair *isn't* terribly damaged.  A couple inches of damage can sure make an entire head of hair look and feel worse than it really is.  One thing you definitely *don't* want to do is layer your hair... you'll be forever cursing those layers if what you're after is long hair that is all one length.

The problem is finding the median between what is best for your hair and what you can live with.  If your hair is feeling like straw, then it really does need to be trimmed.  Since your hair isn't all that long, I suggest you start with no more than an inch or two.  You'll be amazed at the difference just that will make!  Then take *extra* good care of your hair and let it grow as long as you can until the weak hair again begins to show damage.  If you're determined to take care of your hair, you may even be able to get all your original length back before it's time to trim off more of the bleached hair.  Once you have all the damaged and weak hair removed, you will be one of the lucky ones that has the perfect base for growing a head of gorgeous long locks!