Yes, damaged hair can grow back, but the extent depends on the type and severity of the damage. The hair itself doesn't "repair," but new, undamaged hair grows from the follicle.
Understanding Hair Damage and Growth
Hair damage primarily affects the hair shaft—the part you see and style. This damage is often caused by heat styling, chemical treatments, or environmental factors. Importantly, damage to the hair shaft itself doesn't prevent new hair growth. Cutting off damaged ends simply removes the visibly damaged portions; new, healthy hair continues to grow from the hair follicle at the scalp.
However, severe damage to the hair follicle itself can hinder growth. As stated in one source, "damaged hair follicle repair is not technically possible." [Source 1] This means that while existing damaged hair can be removed by cutting, the underlying follicle may be irreparably harmed, impacting future hair growth.
Several sources confirm that hair continues to grow regardless of damage to the hair shaft. [Source 2, Source 3, Source 8, Source 9] Trimming damaged hair is beneficial for improving manageability and appearance, but it doesn't intrinsically improve the health of the follicle or speed up growth. [Source 2]
Types of Hair Damage and Growth
- Shaft Damage: This is the most common type and is typically reversible via cutting. The follicle remains unharmed, and healthy hair will continue to grow.
- Follicle Damage: This is more severe and may result from injury or severe chemical damage. While new hair may still grow, the speed and quality might be affected. Complete hair follicle damage is permanent. [Source 1]
In summary: While damaged hair will not magically repair itself, new, undamaged hair continues to grow from the hair follicle. Cutting off damaged ends improves appearance and manageability but doesn't affect the underlying growth process unless the hair follicle itself is severely damaged.
