Habits and Routines that are Damaging Your Hair
We have all been guilty of going a little bit crazy when it comes to our hair. Not only does it have the elements of everyday life to deal with, but it is also usually the first thing we tackle when we want a change—cutting it short, growing it long, dying it every colour under the sun.
But while our hair plays a large part in our ability to express ourselves in fun and creative ways, the wear and tear can become damaging reasonably quickly. Everyday habits and routines can significantly contribute to this damage, turning us into our own worst enemies. But with a few simple changes, your locks with feel luscious and renewed.
Poor Diet & Nicotine
Like every aspect of the human body, proper nutrition and a diet rich in proteins and vitamins will directly impact your hair in the best possible way. Vitamin E, zinc, copper, and iron are just some of the minerals you need to maintain the health of your hair, while protein helps to boost healthy growth.
Nicotine, however, is fairly harmful to your hair and can lead to hair loss due to a lack of oxygen reaching the follicles. If you find yourself unable to entirely forgo this habit, explore ways on how to get a nicotine prescription responsibly. Additionally, try to cut down your daily intake.
Inconsistent Washing
Washing your hair too often can become just as bad as not cleaning it often enough. Your hair will become dull and dry as you strip the natural oils needed to keep it healthy before it has time to absorb them.
On the other hand, not washing your hair often enough will lead to a build-up of oils, dust, dirt and dead skin cells, which will clog your follicles and lead to hair loss and impaired hair growth. Considering we all have different hair types that require different routines, it is best to contact a specialist who can give you personalised advice based on your needs.
Forgoing Heat Protector
Heat and hair do not mix well together. Constant exposure to hot styling products or the sun will cause your hair to become brittle and very dry. The damage caused by heat breaks down the keratin proteins that make up your hair and can have long-lasting effects.
Not all products do the same thing, as they are designed to protect different parts of your scalp and hair and work with different intensities. But a general rule of thumb is to avoid continuous use of heating tools, choose items with temperature controls and high-quality plates, avoid styling wet or damp hair and don’t spend too much time on just one spot. Extended exposure will cause faster damage.
Towel Drying
Drying your hair with a bath towel after a shower is almost second nature. But the truth is, using a towel meant for your body is very harmful to your delicate hair. The abrasive rubbing can lead to hair loss, breakage and overall damage.
When hair is wet, the strands become very elastic, making them more pliable than usual and far more susceptible to breaking. Instead of a bath towel, invest in a micro-fibre hair towel with soft fibres that cushion and protect the strands. Additionally, a simple cotton t-shirt works wonders. The t-shirt method is ideal for those with curly hair as it holds the curls safely in place.
Improper Brushing
Every hair type requires a different hairbrush. For most, you simply buy the first brush you see and call it a day. But without the proper research, you are doing more harm to your hair than you might intend. For example, those with curly hair should use a boar bristle paddle brush, as it leaves curls in their shape and prevents frizz.
Straight hair does best with a boar and nylon blend, which glides through your hair with no scalp irritation. In addition, it is essential to wait for hair to become slightly damp before brushing and styling. It is also advised to divide hair into sections to work through any knots that might have formed.
Tight Updos
Slicked-back updos and chic high ponytails are classic styles always in fashion. And while they are relatively simple to recreate and keep your hair away from your face, these skull-hugging hairstyles actively contribute to the possibility of receding hairlines and extreme breakage of your locks. They can also lead to painful headaches.
The simplest preventative measure you can take is skipping this look a few days a week, instead opting for loose braids or letting your hair down. You should also use fabric-covered bands as much as possible.
Skipping Trims
It may feel counter-productive, but leaving too much time between trims is terrible for your hair health. Split ends cause your hair to look unhealthy, frizzy and frayed, preventing it from absorbing moisture and remaining healthy.
You should go for a trim every three months to keep your strands looking and feeling healthy and refreshed. People with wavy or curly hair can go as frequently as every six weeks, but this is not a set-in-stone rule.
