Every day, our hair endures some level of stress. Take a moment to think about your routine. Whether you're brushing your hair into a tight, sleek bun or are ambitious enough to use a curling iron for waves, your strands are being put through the ringer. Aside from the mechanical damage, your hair also has to deal with environmental factors that can strip it of moisture and natural oils. Avoiding stressors is almost impossible, but reviving your hair isn't -- thanks to bond repair products. Like a magical elixir, they can be a vital tool in your haircare routine.

You've probably heard of bonding products before. In the past year, the category has grown extensively and has become a trending topic in the beauty industry. Many brands (think K18 and Olaplex) have even developed a cult following specifically for their bond treatments. Virality aside, it's clear that bond repair products are not going anywhere anytime soon.

If you've been on the fence about adding one -- or more -- to your routine, this quick guide is a good place to start. 

What are bond repair products, and how do they work?

Like a deep conditioner or hair mask, bond repair products are renowned for their restorative properties. But instead of simply loading your hair with nutrients, they use chemical bonds to repair damage and rebuild your strands from the inside. 

The complex structure of the hair is the key to understanding how bond repair products work. Each strand consists of proteins, the most prominent one being keratin, that are held together by different bonds. When the bonds are damaged, the hair becomes weak, which can lead to problems like breakage and dryness. Bonding products work to restore the broken bonds, ultimately strengthening the strands for a healthy look.

With that in mind, bond repair treatments have been the most popular kind of product on the scene. These creamy concoctions are meant to sit on the hair for a short period of time before being rinsed out. Treatments offer a quick solution for repairing damage, but they're not the only kind of bond repair products available. Recently, many brands have embraced the popularity of hair-bonding and now include full lineups of products. From shampoos to conditioners and glosses, there are lots of ways to reap the benefits of hair-bonding technology.

How to Use Hair-Bonding Shampoos and Conditioners

Incorporating other forms of bonding products should be a process. Unlike treatments, bond shampoos and conditioners can target specific concerns. If you have color-treated hair that's on the drier side, bonding products can help strengthen your strands and eliminate dryness. You'll still need to use color-care shampoos and conditioners to maintain vibrancy, but alternating them with a bonding product can be beneficial. 

The use of these products will depend on your hair's needs. While most experts don't recommend using bonding products every wash day, they can aid in the overall health of your hair. As always, it's best to consult with your stylist to determine a frequency that works for you.