We’ve all been there—thinking we’re doing right by our locks, only to realise we’ve been sabotaging our hair health all along. So, today, let’s discuss some common hair care blunders—including a few you might not even realise you’re making. More importantly, we’ll share tips on turning them around for healthier, more beautiful hair.
Mistake #1: Over-washing
Ease up on the shampoo! Washing your hair too frequently strips it of natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle. Don’t wash your hair every day. If possible, just target to wash your hair once or twice a week, but that also depends on your hair type and lifestyle. Do you have oily hair? Try using a clarifying shampoo once a week to eliminate product buildup without over-cleansing. How can you ensure you have clean hair during the week? Dry shampoo can be your best friend between washes.
Mistake #2: Blow-drying soaking wet hair
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to blow-drying. The blast of concerted heat will damage your soaking-wet strands and cause them to be frizzy, dry and weak. So, wait until your hair is about 80% dry before reaching for your go-to hairdryer. With this simple step, you can significantly reduce damage, frizz, and breakage. Also, use a microfibre towel to gently squeeze out excess water, and don’t forget that heat protectant spray. Apply that to your almost-dry strands before using your blow-dryer to shield them against thermal damage.
Mistake #3: Neglecting scalp care
Your scalp deserves some care, too! Incorporate weekly scalp treatments to eliminate build-up and unclog those blocked follicles. Try a gentle scalp scrub or a pre-shampoo hair treatment with ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid for a deep yet nourishing clean. Here’s another reminder: protect your head from the sun and keep shower temperatures lukewarm, as heat can strip your scalp of its natural oils. With a healthy scalp, you can have a solid foundation for healthy hair growth.
Mistake #4: Ignoring your diet
You are what you eat, and so is your hair. Load up on foods rich in biotin, vitamins A, C, & E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Think salmon, leafy greens, nuts and avocados. Your hair craves nutrients, so feed it well. Consider adding a hair-specific supplement to your routine if you struggle to get all the necessary nutrients from your diet alone.
Mistake #5: The daily tight updo
Give your hair a break from that tight ponytail! Constant pulling can lead to breakage and even traction alopecia. Mix it up with loose styles or low buns. Also, try using gentler hair accessories like silk scrunchies or claw clips. If you need to tie your hair up, vary the position to avoid stressing the same areas repeatedly.
Mistake #6: Sleeping on cotton pillowcases
Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase. Satin is smooth, so it helps reduce friction, preventing hair breakage and frizz while you sleep. It also helps maintain your hairstyle overnight and can even benefit your skin. If a silk pillowcase isn’t in your budget, try wrapping your hair in a silk scarf before bed instead of leaving it in constant contact with your cotton pillowcases all night.
Mistake #7: Brushing wet hair incorrectly
Always remember that wet hair is more susceptible to breakage. That’s because water weakens your hair’s protein structure, making it more elastic and easier to stretch and snap. So, be extra careful when brushing wet hair. Use a wide-tooth comb or a brush specifically designed for wet hair, starting from the ends and working up to the roots. Be gentle and patient to avoid snapping strands. Do you have curly hair? Consider finger-detangling in the shower while your hair is coated with conditioner.
Mistake #8: Overusing dry shampoo
We’ve recommended using dry shampoo between washes, but while it’s great, relying on it too heavily can lead to scalp buildup and clogged follicles. Use it sparingly, and when you do, massage it into your scalp thoroughly and brush it out. Always follow up with a clarifying shampoo during your next wash to remove any residue.
Mistake #9: Skipping regular trims
It’s no secret that regular trims help maintain healthy hair and prevent split ends from travelling up the hair shaft. Schedule a trim every six to eight weeks, even if you’re growing your hair out. This will keep your ends looking fresh and prevent breakage, allowing your hair to grow longer and stronger in the long run.
Mistake #10: Using the wrong products for your hair type
Not all hair products are created equal; what works for your friend or sister might not work for you. Take the time to identify your hair type and specific concerns, then choose hair care products accordingly. For example, fine hair might benefit from volumising products, while coarse, curly hair often needs more moisture. Don’t be afraid to ask a professional stylist for recommendations tailored to your hair’s needs.
Summing It Up
It isn’t exactly our fault, but sometimes, our well-intentioned hair care habits can do more harm than good. Now that you’ve identified those bad habits, it’s time to break them and embrace a hair care routine that truly nurtures your locks.
