A semi-permanent gloss is a perfect way to experiment with hair color because it only deposits pigments within the cuticle layers so it shampoos out within 6 to 8 washes. A semi-permanent gloss also adds shine and coats the hair shaft, thus protecting your hair from heat-induced damage.
Whenever you wash, style, or touch your hair, always be extremely gentle. Tugging, pulling, combing, brushing, or washing the hair roughly or rigorously can cause split-ends as well as damage to the scalp, so treat your hair as though it were fine antique lace. If your scalp feels any kind of discomfort or tension, you are probably causing some kind of damage to your hair follicles. The best thing that you can do for your hair is to practice using a more patient, soft, and sensitive touch every day.
The bristles of a brush can damage the scalp and tear the hair cuticles, especially if used on kinky curly hair, which is extremely fine and fragile. Although, if done correctly, brushing can help stimulate hair growth by strengthening the follicles and spreading natural oils, such as sebum, throughout the hair; it is much safer to gently use a comb or your fingers to stimulate the scalp. Since you won't be spreading oils with a brush, you can simply apply an oil treatment directly to the ends. If you feel that you must brush, only use one with natural boar bristles and never brush wet hair.
Never wear a hairstyle that causes any kind of pain or discomfort to your hair or scalp. Avoid heavy accessories, tight ponytails, tight braids, or tight anything. Any style that pulls the scalp or puts stress on the hairline is not the right style for you. Wearing the wrong hairstyle can lead to headaches, tension bumps, hair loss, thinning and irreparable damage--it's not worth it. Be comfortable and always choose hair and scalp friendly styles.