Earlier this year, I made a big cut in my life. I cut my hair. Before you roll your eyes (too late, right?), I’m not going to go into how much my identity changed or how free I felt – although I may or may not have chopped it off in a mini state of crisis. Instead, I want to talk about how I ended up destroying my hair because of this rash decision.

I’ve come to the conclusion that longer hair is much more forgiving than shorter hair. I was able to get away with a lot more. Now my tendency to use high heat, zero protective products and curl right to the ends has taken its toll. This is where my identity comes into play – or at the very least, pride.

One of my favorite features about myself – I’m coming from as modest a place as possible — has always been my hair. Now that it feels like straw and frizzes like I’m struck by lightning after every shower, I feel incredibly self-conscious about it.

Thankfully, it was just after another haircut (which pretty much did nothing) that I was asked to try out the new L’Oreal Professionnel’s Pro-Fiber treatment. This quick five-minute in-salon session instantly left my hair feeling softer and smoother. I was also sent home with a collection of shampoo, conditioner, serum, mask and recharger that work together to keep the treatment fresh over a period of six weeks.

I’m now four washes in and, unfortunately, the treatment hasn’t stayed as strong as I’d like. I’m sure, however, that if I had a stronger product – there are three levels of strength – that would be different. Either way, it’s an affordable option for those looking to revive their hair in time for the winter season.