Yeah, I definitely think you're right about a trim - my ends could definitely benefit, as well as having my choppy layers fixed up by my new stylist would probably help with the way my hair lays/grows in general. I've never done a DT or PT so I think I need to experiment. If you could recommend some other good products/lines for me, that would help. I really don't know of much else besides Redken and Deva, the ones I've been using for the past year or so. I know I can't use drugstore products, like Pantene because they hurt my scalp.
My hair is definitely porous from highlights I got on top of demi-permanent color about 7 months ago. All of my natural color that's grown out is healthy, so I do agree that gradually cutting away the old color will help a lot. Is it possible though that sealing - using the buttery/oily products - will weight down my hair at all? Thanks for your advice! Very helpful