You’re probably bombarded by millions of tips and tricks for haircare, a tradition that is propagated by grandmothers, mothers, friends, and even strangers online. But determining what is fact or fiction could control the outcome of your hair and scalp.
The problem is that everyone’s hair is unique and responds differently to treatments, environments, and habits. Even well-intentioned suggestions can lead to serious damage if your hair reacts unfavourably to it.
So let’s examine some myths about hair care – which ones work, and which myths deserve the cut.
1. Brush 100 strokes a day: This is one of the oldest hair care myths, which can unfortunately cause friction damage and weaken the roots of your hair. Instead, gently brush your hair with a natural bristle brush, which can increase blood circulation and evenly distribute natural oil in the hair.
2. Wash your hair everyday: Some people believe that washing your hair every day is the best way to keep it clean. While it might get rid of germs and dirt, using shampoo too frequently can end up stripping your hair and scalp off its natural oils. This can disrupt your oil secretions and cause excessive drying. Ironically, this can also spike oil production to compensate and lead to dandruff. Ideally wash 2-3 times a week, based on your hair type.
3. Dandruff = Dry Scalp: You see dandruff flakes and think it’s a dry scalp. But dandruff is actually caused by a fungus that feeds on excess scalp oil. So if you oil the scalp thinking it’s dry, this can end up making your condition even worse. Use a dandruff shampoo for women, like the Head & Shoulder Smooth and Silky to cleanse any dandruff causing germs and restore dry, damaged hair.
4. Plucking grey hair leads to the growth of more: Untrue. Colour change in the hair is due to the absence of melanin in the hair follicle. Plucking out the hair – no matter the colour – can weaken or damage the neighbouring hair follicles, which may result in hair loss.
5. Regular trims will increase hair growth: Your hair is not a shrub that requires trimming for growth. There is no conclusive proof or guarantee that a regular hair trim will encourage growth. Hair grows from the root, so cutting it at the ends won’t make a difference. However, regular haircuts can keep your hair healthy and reduce breakage!
6. Air dry, not blow dry: You may be surprised to know that both air drying and blow drying can damage your strands. Blow drying, particularly at higher temperatures, can damage the surface of your hair. However, air drying can lead to weaker hair strands, especially when exposed to UV rays and pollutants. Blow drying at cold temperatures is better, as air drying involves leaving water in your hair which can cause swelling of the strands.
7. Cold water makes hair shinier: This is definitely one of the more popular hair care myths and facts. However, it isn’t true. The logic is that the colder water can close the cuticle of your hair strand, but cold water often doesn’t rinse the strands as much as warm water can. Cold-water rinse can also restrict blood flow to the capillaries that carry nutrients to your hair.
8. Change hair care products frequently: Quality hair products are formulated carefully and act gradually to give you the desired results. Changing your hair care products frequently, and without any cause, is pointless. However, if you have had treatments done, moved to a new climate, or made any other change, you should choose a new product.
9. It’s fine to sleep with damp hair: No, it’s not. There are a variety of issues that can creep up, including an increase in friction, breakage, frizzing, and matting. The damp pillows also become a hotbed for bacterial growth which can cause more trouble for your scalp.
10. Natural oils are great for hair: This is one of those hair care myths that needs to be looked at closely. Yes, natural oils like coconut oil or avocado oil are good conditioners for your hair. However, they cannot penetrate the hair shaft deep enough to create real change. In fact, natural oils are often heavy and hard to wash off the hair, which can leave it looking greasy. Use them as emollients instead.
11. You don’t need to use conditioners: One of the common myths about hair care has to do with conditioner use. Skipping out on conditioners can make your hair look frizzy, dull and dry. Conditioners nourish your hair, protect the strands and leave it silky-smooth and soft.
12. Hats cause hair fall: If you love wearing hats, you may have been cautioned about its effects on your hair. However, a regular and comfortable hat is not likely to cause hair fall. It can even protect you from UV rays and pollution. Just don’t wear a tight one, as that can reduce circulation in the hair follicles and weaken them.
