I’ve made just about every mistake in the book when it comes to hair care practice. From using the wrong products to improper styling techniques, from overwashing to ignoring the scalp, I have learned to avoid everything after paying a heavy toll by damaging my hair. Let’s be honest, despite our best intentions, we all are guilty of at least one of these mistakes.
In this article, we will explore those mistakes and provide tips on how to keep your hair looking its best.
Washing your hair too often
Washing your hair to clean it up? Yes. Washing hair every day? No-no. While it’s necessary to wash your hair to keep it clean & healthy, over washing can strip away its natural oil and leave it dry and brittle. Wash your hair according to your hair care needs. Usually, 2-3 times a week is enough or even less frequently, if you have dry or curly hair.
Combing wet hair
Hair is the weakest and most delicate when it’s wet. Combing wet hair makes it more prone to breakage. If you have straight hair, avoid combing in the wet state. Let it dry and then detangle it with a wide teeth comb. And if you have curly hair, gently detangle it, starting from the ends and working your way up to the roots. And of course, with a wide teeth comb.
Combing too much
Trust me, 8-9 strokes per day is enough. Combing or brushing your hair again and again will only weaken them and cause breakage.
Using the wrong comb or brush
Not using the comb or brush according to your hair type can lead to damage and breakage. Different brushes serve different purposes. Different hair types require different tools too. Try to avoid using plastic or metal combs. If you have thick or curly hair, opt for a wide-tooth comb or a brush with flexible bristles to detangle without causing frizz. And if you have straight hair, a paddle brush will work well for smoothing and straightening. Understand which kind of combs or brush works best for you and stick to it.
Hot shower
Taking a shower in hot water is one of the most common hair care mistakes we often do without realising how harmful it can be. Applying hot water can strip the natural oil from your hair and scalp, cause your hair colour to fade, and leave your hair dry and frizzy. Wash your hair with lukewarm water or maybe with cold water sometimes.
Skipping trims
Aiming for longer hair and trimming seems just a delay in your way? But what if we tell you that skipping trims is only leading your hair to cause split ends and making it more prone to breakage? Go for a trimming session every 2 months and maintain your hair health in your desired shape.
Rubbing your hair with a towel
Does wet hair also give you the impulse to rub it instantly with a towel and get it dry? But this actually causes more harm than good. Rubbing hair vigorously with a towel can cause friction and lead to breakage and frizz. Instead, gently squeeze excess water from your hair using a soft microfiber towel or an old t-shirt. And then leave it to dry naturally.
Avoiding conditioner after shampoo
Each product serves a different purpose. While shampoo is for cleaning your hair and scalp, conditioner is essential for keeping your hair hydrated, smooth and manageable. Opt for a conditioner suitable for your hair type and apply it only to your hair strands, avoiding the scalp.
Tight hairstyles
Tight hairstyles like ponytails, braids and buns can give you a bold look but unfortunately, it’s not worth the damage. Pulling your hair backwards into tight hairstyles can put stress on the hair follicle and lead to damage and hair loss. Opt for a loose hairstyle or put your hair simply open to avoid hair loss.
Ignoring your scalp
Sometimes the damage you feel is not only just in your hair strands, it’s actually in your scalp. Just like your skin, your scalp also needs to be exfoliated and moisturized. Incorporate scalp care products like scrubs or moisturizing treatments to keep your scalp healthy and free of the buildup of oils and dirt.
Ignoring your diet
A poorly nutritious diet is considered as one of the biggest reasons for hair loss and damage. What you eat has a significant impact on your entire health as well as on your hair. Lack of essential vitamins and minerals like iron, and zinc can weaken hair follicles and fade the shine of your hair. Make sure you’re getting enough nutrients, such as proteins, vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids to keep your hair healthy and shiny.
Not protecting your hair from the sun
You always try to protect your skin from UV rays, so why don’t you give the same effort to your hair? Hair can also be damaged by the harmful UV rays. Wear a hat, carry an umbrella or use sun-protective sprays every time you go outside to shield your hair from the sun.
Using heat styling tools without a protectant
While using a heat-styling tool like a blow dryer, straightener or curling iron on hair is itself a reason for hair damage, applying it without heat protectant is enough to do the additional damage. Heat protectant acts as a shield between the hair strands and the heat, helping to prevent breakage and damage. Try to use heat styling tools less frequently with lower heat settings, and use heat protectant spray or serum before using these tools.
Final words
Hair care routines or hair care problems can be varied for people. Find out and avoid mistakes doing damage to your hair and implement healthier haircare practices to get the gorgeous locks you deserve.
