We’ve grown accustomed to doing many things when it comes to our hair, from daily washing to keeping up with hair trends from the past. But are you damaging your hair with these lifelong habits? Are your daily routines actually harming your hair instead of making it shine? As you age, your hair can become thinner and less hydrated, and you need to make sure you aren’t unintentionally making things worse. We’ve compiled a list of 7 common hair mistakes that can wreak havoc on your locks. Pay attention to these don’ts, and you’ll keep your hair healthy.
7 Common Mistakes That Damage Your Hair
1. Stop using damaging elastic bands.
If you are making a tight, high pony, you can also damage your hair follicles at your hairline to the point that it begins to fall out, giving you a receding hairline! Avoid any band with hair-snagging metal or plastic pieces. If you are going to use an elastic band, make sure it’s covered with fabric and that you don’t stress your hair by using it daily. To keep from damaging your hair while still pulling your hair back, try Cyndibands, Scünci’s Fashionably Fit hairband, or Grab & Go Ponytail holders.
2. Stop shampooing every day.
Unless you’re a workout fiend getting sweaty at the gym, stop shampooing every day because your scalp needs a chance to recover. If you must do something, use dry shampoo instead or use a cleansing cream or foam. They’re more gentle on your hair and scalp than the sulfates in shampoos. The benefit will be shinier hair (use a boar bristle brush to distribute oils evenly), and your hair color will last longer.
3. Stop backcombing or teasing with a comb.
This trend is as old as time, it seems, and the thought of it takes me back to the 80s when I had huge bangs and Farrah Fawcett wings. Oddly enough, it’s a method that’s still used today in various hairstyling methods. However, not surprisingly, a fine-tooth comb can do more damage than good. Instead, if you plan to add a little volume by using backcombing or teasing your hair, plan to use a teasing brush with densely packed bristles. It’ll do less damage while giving the same effect.
4. Stop skipping your conditioner.
Despite what you may have heard, conditioner doesn’t weigh your hair down. What it does do is help your color last longer and keep your hair looking healthy. Even if you skip shampoo (as suggested in tip #2), make sure you use either an in-shower conditioner or a leave-in option after showering. You’ll keep from drying out your locks, especially if you’re doing daily styling.
5. Stop rinsing your hair in hot water.
There are few things better than a nice hot shower, but it can wreak havoc on your hair. Warm water opens the hair cuticle, allowing shampoo and conditioner to do their job. So, start with warm water, but finish with a cold rinse to close the cuticle, lock all that good stuff in, and maintain the life of your color.
6. Stop scrubbing your hair with a towel.
When it comes to drying your hair with a towel, make sure you simply scrunch it with the towel. Vigorous rubbing can damage your hair and lead to frizz or breaks that weaken it. For best results, give up those terrycloth towels and use a soft microfiber towel like the Aquis Microfiber Hair Towel instead.
7. Stop avoiding haircuts.
Frizzy hair and broken, split ends can ruin your entire look, and the longer you wait between haircuts, the more frazzled you tend to look. A fresh haircut and revitalized color will maximize your style and make you look younger and fresher too, so stop procrastinating. Take the time to visit your stylist and keep those ends trimmed to keep your hair healthy and happy.
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