11 Habits That Damage Your Hair

1. You wash your hair too often or not enough

Washing your hair too often will lead to dry, dull hair. When we wash excessively, we strip the hair of all the essential oils that keep it healthy and beautiful. The same applies to our skin. Similarly, when we wash our hair infrequently, we can experience serious negative effects. A build-up of dirt, dust and added oils in the hair will clog the pores of the scalp, which in some cases can cause hair loss or stunted hair growth. Our scalp and hair deserve the same attention as our face and body.

2. Rinsing with hot water

While we all love a hot shower after a long day, our hair doesn’t. Unfortunately, extra hot water has the same effect as hot hair styling tools. Excessive heat and steam easily strip the scalp of essential oils and leave it vulnerable and susceptible to further damage. Hair specialists recommend slightly warm water to allow the follicles to open and clean. However, after conditioning, it’s crucial to switch the water to cold to re-seal the follicles and avoid the risk of developing ingrown hairs or irritation.

3. Be careful with conditioner

When conditioning your hair, it’s important to avoid the roots. Conditioners, which are usually thick and heavy, cause blockage in the pores of the scalp. This means that you will be prone to ingrown hairs, damaged follicles and excess oil. The hair on the top of the head is the newest and therefore the most hydrated. Hair closer to the ends is older and drier, so it’s essential to target those areas when conditioning. A good rule of thumb to follow is that balm should never go above your ears.

4. Rough towel drying

We all love that feeling of freshness when you get out of the shower, when your hair is tied, and you are lounging in your favorite bathrobe. However, in reality, drying your hair with a towel is extremely harmful. The rough movement of the terry cloth through the hair leads to breakage, hair loss and damage. When hair is wet, strands are especially elastic, meaning they are pliable enough to break when mishandled. Next time you shower, try using a cotton t-shirt or a microfiber hair wrap. The t-shirt method works exceptionally well for people with curly hair. Simply put your hair in a shirt and tie it like a bath towel. However, if you have the time and patience, try air drying and your hair will thank you.

5. Using the wrong type of hairbrush

Each hair type requires a different brush. Most of us give up on researching hairbrushes and go with the prettiest, but being thoughtful about what you use to style your hair can make a noticeable difference. People with curly hair should use a brush with boar bristles. This type of brush does not cause the curls to lose their shape or frizz, but leaves the strands moist and smooth without causing any pain. Those with straight hair should get a brush that combines boar and nylon bristles. This type of brush is especially good for people with thinner hair, as the bristles glide smoothly through the hair without irritating the scalp or pulling at the follicles. Consult your hairdresser to find out which brush is best for you.

6. Forgetting the heat shield when using hot tools

When using hot tools on your hair, it is imperative that you apply enough heat protection. Without it, your hair will endure long-term damage and noticeable dullness. High temperatures automatically cause splitting and drying of strands. The protection will create a barrier that prevents the heat from harming the scalp. However, not all heat protection products are the same, so do your research and find out which option works best for your hair type, whether it’s a blow-dry conditioner, a spray, or something else.

7. Sleeping on cotton pillowcases

Cotton pillowcases are known to absorb essential oils in the hair that promote hydration. Without these oils, your hair is prone to breakage due to dryness and your skin can be similarly affected. Fortunately, this problem is easily solved. Simply swap your cotton pillowcase for a silk one and you’ll wake up with shiny locks.

8. Styling hair too often

Slicked up hair and ponytails are adored by many, including the likes of Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Selena Gomez. However, this way of styling leads to excessive hair breakage and shedding. To ensure the health of your hair, try to tie it up as little as possible.

9. Forgetting breakfast

A high-protein breakfast encourages strong hair growth and supplies your body with the nutrients it needs to start the day. Eggs and mixed berries are two popular breakfast foods that promote hair growth and overall health. Remember that hair health starts in the kitchen.

10. Overheating the hair

Overusing hot tools is the easiest way to damage your hair. Heat contributes to split ends, breakage and dryness. In addition to using a strong heat protectant, hair experts recommend keeping hot tools to a minimum.

11. Combing wet hair (especially from the roots)

When your hair is wet, it’s especially prone to breakage due to its elasticity caused by the shower. As a result, it’s crucial to wait until your hair is almost completely dry before running a brush through it. Alternatively, you can take a wide-toothed comb to detangle the bottom half of your hair, being careful to avoid the roots. Combing when the hair is completely wet will cause intense breakage and unnecessary hair loss.