Our hair is often a source of pride, and we go to great lengths to keep it looking its best. However, there are common mistakes that many of us unintentionally make, unknowingly causing more harm than good. This post highlights ten mistakes that it’s advisable to avoid for healthier and more vibrant hair. Discover these pitfalls below to ensure you treat your hair with the care it deserves.
The Top 10 Hair Care Mistakes to Avoid
1. Daily Shampooing
Many of us believe daily shampooing is necessary, especially in the face of rampant pollution. However, this is a common mistake that can harm our hair. Shampooing daily increases our hair’s exposure to the chemicals in the product, potentially damaging the hair roots with excessive use. Additionally, it strips the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and increased vulnerability to hair fall. (1)
The optimal frequency for shampooing is generally once every 2-3 days unless your hair has been excessively exposed to dirt and chemicals. Avoiding daily shampooing allows your hair to retain its natural oils, promoting overall hair health and vitality.
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2. Daily Blow Drying
Frequently resorting to blow drying is another common mistake many of us make, driven by our busy schedules and daily routines. However, the quickest method is not always the best for our hair. Ideally, after washing, it’s beneficial to let our hair air-dry. If you need a dryer, wait until your hair is semi-dry, and then use the dryer sparingly. (2)
Overdoing blow drying can strip your hair of surface water and make your hair cuticles rigid, dry, and prone to brittleness. To avoid this, take precautions such as not washing and shampooing your hair daily, as this reduces the need for daily blow-drying. By incorporating these measures, you can protect your hair from the potential damage associated with excessive blow drying.
3. Combing Wet Hair
A common practice to prevent hair tangling is combing it while wet, but this should be avoided as it can lead to hair damage and increased hair fall. Ideally, your hair should be semi-dry before attempting to comb it. If you’re in a hurry and need to step out, you can gently comb through the tips of your hair from below to detangle them. However, it’s crucial to let your hair dry completely before combing it from above to minimize the risk of damage. This simple adjustment in combing habits can contribute to healthier and more resilient hair. (3)
4. Using the Wrong Brush or Comb
Various types of brushes and combs are available so that a range of hair textures and styles can be catered to individuals. A common mistake many of us commit is using an inappropriate hairbrush or comb for our particular hair type. You must find out what hairbrush or comb best suits your hair and specifically use that one. If you are unsure which one to use, follow numerous guides online or ask a hair specialist at your local shop.
Another common mistake most of us are guilty of is using dirty hairbrushes and combs. While running these styling tools through our hair, dust, dirt, and grime get caught between the bristles or teeth. It is, therefore, essential to clean them periodically. Once a week is ideal, but once in two weeks will suffice.
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5. Hair Sprays
Hair sprays are often used under the impression that they will enhance our hair quality. That’s a huge misconception. Hair sprays are formulated with hardening substances to keep your hair in place. Unfortunately, these ingredients dehydrate your hair strands by depleting the natural moisture level in your hair. It is best to avoid hair sprays altogether unless your hair is highly unmanageable and you have an essential event to attend with less time on your hands.
6. Ignoring Dandruff
Almost everyone has experienced Dandruff at some point in time. Unfortunately, many of us avoid treating it immediately and instead take measures to hide it, mask it, or style our hair around it to conceal it. Dandruff is a major cause of hair loss and should not be taken lightly. When you discover Dandruff, use an anti-dandruff shampoo to obliterate it. If it persists after a few uses, consult a dermatologist for assistance. (4)
7. Excessive Hair Brushing or Combing
Many of us habitually comb our hair, thinking it will look softer and mess-free. In reality, our hair only requires 3-4 comb or brush strokes to detangle them! More than this, the natural minerals in our hair get depleted. Unfortunately, most of us keep giving in to our urges and comb them now and then, several times a day. This leads to intense hair damage and hair fall and should be avoided.
8. Cutting Your Hair
Sometimes, we get carried away with our enthusiasm and end up picking up a pair of scissors and cutting our hair. People often do this to remove grey hairs, prove a point to others, or style it instantly. Whatever the reason, do not cut your hair unless you are trained to do so. Always get it cut by a professional so that proper care and techniques can avoid damage.
9. Delayed Haircuts
Most of us keep postponing our haircut schedules for months together. This is a common mistake committed by those who are either trying to grow their hair out or simply lazy. To have damage-free hair, you should strictly follow a haircut schedule. Even a tiny trim every few weeks can keep split ends away and lead to healthy hair tips.
10. Over-Styling Hair
It is our responsibility to know the type and texture of our hair and the level and frequency of styling it can handle. Over-styling one’s hair is a mistake that leads to hair damage and even hair fall. There is a lot of individual variation regarding safe periods between styling sessions. Hence, the rule of thumb is to style it weekly once and gradually increase or decrease it depending on how much damage it causes to your hair. Always use a heat protectant before a heated styling device, regardless of your hair type!
This list is inconclusive, but it highlights the ten most common mistakes you should avoid having a healthy head of hair. Avoid these mistakes, and you will see results within a few months.
Summary
Maintaining healthy and vibrant hair involves avoiding common mistakes that inadvertently cause harm. Daily shampooing, excessive blow drying, combing wet hair, using the wrong brush, and neglecting regular cleaning are practices to be mindful of. Additionally, the misconceptions around the benefits of hair sprays and the tendency to ignore Dandruff should be addressed promptly. Excessive hair brushing, impulsive hair cutting, delayed haircuts, and over-styling can also contribute to damage. You can nurture a healthy and lustrous mane by avoiding these pitfalls and adopting proper hair care practices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is daily shampooing necessary to combat pollution?
No, daily shampooing is not necessary and can be harmful. Excessive shampooing strips the hair of natural oils and exposes it to more chemicals, potentially leading to dryness and increased hair fall. The ideal frequency is once every 2-3 days, except in cases of excessive exposure to dirt and chemicals.
Is blow drying harmful to the hair?
Excessive blow drying can be harmful as it removes surface water from the hair, making the cuticles rigid, dry, and brittle. Let the hair air-dry whenever possible and use a dryer sparingly, especially when the hair is semi-dry.
Can I comb my hair when it’s wet?
Combing wet hair can lead to damage and increased hair fall. It’s recommended to wait until the hair is semi-dry before combing. If in a hurry, gently comb through the tips below to detangle, but ensure the hair is dehydrated before searching from above.
How often should I trim my hair?
Regular hair trims are beneficial to prevent split ends and promote healthy hair growth. Trimming every 6-8 weeks is a general guideline, but the frequency can vary based on individual hair type and growth.
Does using hot water for hair wash contribute to damage?
Hot water can strip the hair of natural oils, leading to dryness and potential damage. It’s advisable to use lukewarm or cool water for hair wash to maintain the hair’s natural moisture.
Does hair brushing stimulate hair growth?
While brushing can help distribute natural oils and improve the overall appearance of the hair, there’s no direct evidence that it stimulates hair growth. Gentle brushing is recommended to avoid hair breakage.
Is it necessary to use a conditioner every time I shampoo?
While not strictly necessary, a conditioner helps moisturize and detangle the hair. Using a conditioner regularly is beneficial, but the frequency can depend on individual hair needs.
Can certain hairstyles contribute to hair damage?
Yes, tight hairstyles like ponytails and braids can cause stress on the hair shaft and lead to breakage. It’s advisable to vary hairstyles and avoid excessive tension on the hair.
Does the type of pillowcase affect hair health?
Silk or satin pillowcases are gentler on the hair and can help reduce friction, minimizing tangles and breakage. Choosing a smooth pillowcase material can contribute to overall hair health.
Can diet impact hair health?
A balanced diet rich in nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, is crucial for healthy hair growth. Adequate hydration and a diet with sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals support overall hair health.
