Tips for protecting hair?

I have long (mid-back length) naturally curly hair that is somewhat fine and prone to breakage. It also tangles like you would not believe (everytime I go for a trim, the hairdresser is amazed-- they finish combing one side, do the other and by then the first side is tangled again!).

I am serving a year tour in Iraq so my hair is pretty much up in a bun all the time. I use those hair bands that are supposed to prevent your hair from breaking but I still feel like my hair is getting damaged! It has to be pulled back rather tightly or else little curls start to escape. What can I do?

(This happens at home too, it's just since I am here, I never get to take it down so I feel it never gets a break from being pulled back).

Tips for protecting hair?

Try using fatter hair ties. (not a scrunchy!) The skinny ones can cut through the hair if it is too tight. Also, don't put it up while its wet. Wet hair stretches more than dry. As it dries it shrinks back up and snaps if it is pulled back too tight. Same goes for twisting it up in a towel and leaving.

Tips for protecting hair?

do a britney (shave your head)

Tips for protecting hair?

I know this isn't what you want to hear but would it not be better to have it cut shorter while you are away,no maybe not then there isn't to much to say to helep you other then have it done into braids,will you be able to do that ?