There are some things that are bad for your hair, as you (hopefully) already know. We’re talking about practices like overdoing the highlights, skipping regular trims, and using hot tools without a heat protectant. But did you realize that there are some other, much more cunning and covert, offenders who may also be harming your strands?
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Habits That Are Actually Damaging Your Hair
There are several habits that can be damaging to your hair and affect its health and appearance. Here are some common ones:
Excessive heat styling
Frequent use of hot tools such as hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons can lead to dryness, breakage, and split ends. The high temperatures strip the hair of its natural moisture, making it more vulnerable to damage. It’s important to use heat-protectant products and minimize the use of heat-styling tools.
Overwashing
Washing your hair too often can strip away its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Ideally, you should aim to wash your hair every other day or every few days, depending on your hair type. Using a gentle shampoo and conditioner and avoiding harsh chemicals can also help maintain its health.
Tight hairstyles and excessive pulling
Wearing tight ponytails, braids, or buns regularly can cause tension and pull on the hair strands, leading to breakage and even traction alopecia. It’s important to give your hair breaks from tightly pulled styles and opt for looser hairstyles or leave them down whenever possible.
Rough towel drying
Vigorously rubbing your hair with a towel to dry it can cause friction and breakage. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess moisture and pat your hair dry with a soft towel or an old t-shirt.
Using harsh hair products
Some hair products, such as certain shampoos, conditioners, and styling products, contain harsh chemicals that can strip the hair of its natural oils and cause dryness and damage. Look for gentle, sulfate-free products that are suitable for your hair type and avoid overusing styling products.
Lack of protection from the sun
Prolonged sun exposure can lead to hair damage, including dryness, fading of colour-treated hair, and weakening of the hair shaft. Whenever you’re spending time in the sun, protect your hair by wearing a hat or using hair products with SPF.
Poor diet and nutrition
Your hair’s health is influenced by your overall well-being, and a poor diet lacking essential nutrients can result in weak, dull hair. Make sure you have a balanced diet that includes vitamins, minerals, and proteins necessary for healthy hair growth.
Skipping regular trims
Avoiding regular hair trims can lead to the accumulation of split ends, which can travel up the hair shaft and cause more damage. Aim to trim your hair every 8 to 12 weeks to maintain its health and prevent split ends from worsening.
By avoiding these damaging habits and adopting a healthy hair care routine, you can promote the overall health and appearance of your hair. Remember to be patient, as it takes time for new hair growth to reflect the positive changes you make.
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