If there’s one thing I’ve learned on my natural hair journey, it’s that setbacks happen. Recently, I had one that made me question everything I was doing for my hair. I used a shampoo and conditioner that completely stripped my strands, leaving them weak, brittle, and prone to breakage. I could literally feel my hair snapping, and I knew right away that something wasn’t right.

The Damage: Stripped & Broken
I’m always testing out new hair products, but this time, I made the mistake of using a duo that did not work well for my curls. It left my hair feeling rough and straw-like, and within days, I started noticing excessive breakage. No matter how much moisture I tried to reintroduce, my hair wasn’t bouncing back the way it usually does. I panicked a little—because when you’re on a growth journey, every inch matters!

The First Attempt at Repair: L’Oréal Absolut Molecular Repair Shampoo & Hair Mask
My first instinct was to reach for my trusty L’Oréal Absolut Molecular Repair Shampoo and Hair Mask, which have been great at keeping my hair strong and hydrated. I love the way they nourish my strands and help maintain my curl pattern. But this time, they just weren’t enough on their own. My hair felt better, but not fully restored. I could tell it needed something extra—something with intense bond-repairing properties.
The Game Changer: Joico Bond in a Flash

Enter Joico Bond in a Flash—a product I had tested before and liked, but now, I needed it more than ever. From the first use, I noticed a difference. This treatment warms upon application, transforming from a liquid to a creamy consistency that penetrates deeply into the hair. The slip was just enough to make detangling easier, and my hair instantly felt stronger.
After incorporating it into my routine consistently, my curls started regaining their elasticity, and the excessive breakage stopped. I could see and feel the difference—my hair was back to being resilient, defined, and healthy.
A Setback, Not a Failure
This experience was a reminder that not every product is made for every hair type, and sometimes, even the best routines need adjustments. While I wish I had never used that stripping shampoo and conditioner, I’m grateful that I had products on hand that could bring my hair back to life.
I’m considering this just a small setback on my natural hair journey, not a failure. My goal is to reach armpit-length hair by the end of the year, and with the right care, I believe I can still get there.
Lessons Learned:
- Always check ingredients and reviews before trying new products.
- Have a reliable bond-repairing treatment on standby.
- Setbacks are temporary—hair grows back with the right care and patience!
If you’ve ever experienced a similar setback, know that your hair can recover. It’s all about finding the right products and sticking to a routine that works for your curls. Here’s to healthy hair and growth—no matter the obstacles!
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