Hair Care Mistakes You’re Probably Making
Beauty has been associated with thick, healthy hair since at least ancient Egypt, when Cleopatra’s compatriots resorted to primitive wigs and extensions to look their best. You might already pump up the volume the same way or might need to one day—according to the Harvard Medical School, a third of women will experience thinning hair in their lives. Don’t let it be because of common hair care mistakes you’re probably making. The more you know, the better your strands’ chances.
The Wrong Pillowcase
High-thread-count bedding is good for the skin and the soul, but it doesn’t do your hair any favors. The fibers can be rough on your hair when you toss and turn. If you don’t cover your hair at night, you’ll notice a smoother texture if you switch to silk or satin pillowcases.
Washing Too Often
You may have heard this one before, and you probably ignored it then, too. But there’s just no need to wash your hair every day— in fact, it can cause damage. It might feel good to shampoo every day, but it can strip away the nourishing oils that occur naturally on your scalp. You exacerbate the problem if you’re combing through tangles while it’s wet; that’s when it’s most prone to breakage. You can go at least a day between washes, or more if your hair is thicker and curlier. If you need to, you can always rinse your hair after workouts and apply conditioner at the tips. For maximum hair health, make sure you’re rinsing with cold water to seal your follicles—not warm, and never hot.
Towel Drying
If you’re getting this one wrong, it’s understandable, but experts say even plush towels can damage your hair. If you’re vigorously rubbing it dry, you’re really in trouble. You can gently squeeze excess water from your hair after washes but never twist and wring it out. Stylists will approve if you use an old, soft T-shirt to gently blot your hair dry. Newer microfiber towels are better choices, too.
Too Many Products
This is a common hair care mistake you’re probably making because the concept is so contradictory. You buy products that promise to make your hair thicker, shinier, and healthier, just to have them build up on your follicles. Don’t overthink it; use a detoxifying shampoo every now and again, and only apply styling aids on the ends of your hair if you can. Silicone-heavy products make your hair softer but can build up with too many coats. You can go ahead and experiment with different products, as long as you clarify in between and don’t use a cocktail of them all at once.