I have kept my long hair during the past 15 years with some variations in the hair length.
My conclusions to keep healthy hair I have learned so far are:
1. Avoid hair dryer as possible. Instead, use a plain electric fan.
2. Avoid dying as possible. I sometimes dye my hair, but once in one or two years.
3. Avoid hair straightener or other chemicals as possible.
4. Use natural shampoo products, and rinse your hair with running cold water at least for 3 min.
I sometimes let my hair permed at a professional hair salon, probably once or twice per year. I do not grudge money in choosing a nice hair salon (usually US$200-300), because the permed hair style lasts longer.
Also, as I am getting aged (>50), I am taking Finasterid to prevent or minimize hair loss.
In any case, letting your hair intact as possible is the best practice to have nice and healthy hair in the long term.
barbie~~
