We’ve all made mistakes with our hair in the past (just look at your yearbook from middle school for proof). You’d think that now that you are older and wiser you would know how to take care of your hair. It turns out that there are many ways to damage your hair without even realizing it. You may be making six common hair care mistakes. Find out how to fix them.
1. Use drugstore shampoos and conditioners
They’re popular because they are cheap and convenient. The real cost of low-quality products is not reflected on the receipt. The shampoos and conditioners you buy at the drugstore are usually filled with harsh chemicals like sulfates and silicones. They may also contain parabens or phthalates.
The Fix You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get salon-quality results. The concentrated ingredients in solid shampoo bars and conditioner bars make them just as luxurious and effective as high-end liquid products you would find at a hair salon. They’re also more eco-friendly, as they save one or two plastic bottles that would otherwise end up in landfills.
2. The dangers of being too aggressive when handling wet hair
You might not realize how fragile wet hair can be. Wet hair weakens hydrogen bonds, which hold the protein structure of your hair together (keratin), making it more vulnerable to damage and breaking. Many hair experts advise that you take extra care when handling wet strands.
Fix: Do not rub your hair with the towel too hard after you leave the shower. Wait until your hair has completely dried before brushing it, or putting it in a bun or ponytail. Don’t use hot tools on your wet hair.
3. Too much product is being used
Do you have a limp, greasy hairstyle? Your curls may be lacking the usual bounce and luster. Try reducing the amount of product you use in your hair. Overusing products can also sabotage the health of your hair. Too much product can block vital nutrients from reaching the hair shaft. This causes hair to be weak and lifeless. This can lead to a cycle of excessive washing of your hair in order to remove the buildup. This will strip hair of its natural oil.
Fix: Use less hair products. In general, you don’t have to use more than a dime size of hair products. Consider reducing the number of products you use each day. Your hair will also be healthier and you’ll save money. You’ll also be doing the environment a great favor by reducing plastic waste.
4. You don’t trim your hair often enough
Your hairstylist doesn’t want to drain your wallet by suggesting that you get regular haircuts. Hair care professionals are genuinely concerned about your hair’s health. Regular trims are a vital part of maintaining your hair’s health. Experts say that if you ignore split ends, the damage will eventually spread up the shaft of the hair, causing breakage and slow growth. Regular trims will make your hair look thicker and longer. Don’t delay — shear those ends!
The Fix The fix is to make regular appointments with your stylist. How often should your hair be cut? This depends on the length, texture and style of your hair. Most people will benefit from a trim every eight to ten weeks.
5. Showers that are too hot
After a hard day at work or after a tough workout, hot showers are a welcome treat. The truth is, a hot shower does nothing for your hair or skin. The constant flow of hot water that hits your head when you take a shower damages your hair’s keratin and removes the natural oils on your scalp. Continue to take hot showers and you may end up with frizzy, dry hair.
The Fix Cold showers are great for your skin, hair and overall health. Let’s be honest, a daily shower of ice-cold water sounds like torture! What is a more realistic solution? Reduce the temperature to your comfort level. Consider wearing a shower cap if you are desperate for a hot shower. You can protect your hair this way.
6. Skipping heat protectant spray
After damage, hair can only be maintained and protected. It’s important to use heat-protectant spray before using hot tools on your hair. Heat protectors work by coating the hair strands in a protective layer that reduces heat damage. These products also add shine, smoothness and some contain keratin which increases hair strength and fights brittleness.
Heat spray can be beneficial to your hair even if it is not used with hot tools. This is especially true if you are spending a lot time outdoors. The sun can damage not only your skin and eyes, but also your hair.
The Fix If you can’t give up your hot tools, invest in a heat-protectant spray that contains moisturizing ingredients like glycerin or hyaluronic acids. You may also want to add a sun-protection hat to the wardrobe as the weather starts to warm.
There are many ways that we can damage our hair without realizing it. Heat styling tools, hot water showers and incorrect product use are just a few. Simple swaps, such as using high-quality heat protectors and long-lasting shampoo bars, can make a big difference. These tips will help you get your hair back to healthy!
