Hello! In this article, we’ll discuss habits that many of us consider “normal” for our
hair care but unknowingly cause damage.
We know that hair frames the face and has always been a fundamental part of the
appearance someone wants to project socially, reflecting a large part of their self-
esteem. For these reasons, hair is valuable in showcasing a pleasant image and
being a reflection of our health and personal care.
Often, out of vanity, we use our hair to follow fashion trends, trying products or
hairstyles that are widely popular. These actions aim to improve our appearance,
not just through clothing but also with our hair, yet… we end up damaging it.
Beyond trends, many of us have habits that, when repeated consistently, harm our
hair.
No, we won’t discuss diet, exercise, alcohol, or tobacco here—those don’t just
harm your hair but your overall health, and we’ve already covered them in other
articles.
This time, you’ll learn about habits that directly damage your hair. Many people
follow them out of habit, fashion, or because they were taught to:
Poor Hair Hygiene
Wash your hair regularly. If it’s oily, at least three times a week; if it’s normal, two
times a week. Many people believe that working in indoor spaces or not being
exposed to wind and dust means their hair doesn’t get dirty. That’s NOT true. Your
scalp sweats and produces sebum and oil in any environment. A dirty scalp doesn’t
oxygenate properly and can affect hair follicles.
Overuse of Tight Hairstyles
Wearing tight hairstyles, like high ponytails, tight braids, or extensions for long
periods, can put pressure on the hair and scalp, leading to breakage and hair loss.
Try varying your styles and use silk ties or gym-friendly hair accessories.
Tight hairstyles can cause traction alopecia. Constant pulling from tight hairstyles
or certain hair accessories weakens the hair, eventually leading to hair loss and
bald spots, especially at the hairline.
Incorrect Brushing
Brushing your hair too forcefully, especially to detangle, or brushing while it’s wet,
can cause breakage and damage its structure. Use a suitable brush for your hair
type and start detangling gently from the ends, working your way to the roots.
Using Home Remedies
Sudden hair loss or weakening can result from underlying medical conditions.
Don’t gamble with your health. Consult a specialist to determine the cause and
recommend proper treatment.
Unfortunately, many people avoid specialists out of embarrassment and instead
turn to “home remedies” recommended by relatives. Be cautious. Without
understanding the specific cause of hair issues, such treatments can worsen the
problem.
Washing Hair with Very Hot Water
It’s common to wash hair with excessively hot water under the misconception that it
cleans the scalp better. This is FALSE. High temperatures open scalp pores and
alter hair structure, leading to dryness, dehydration, and even scalp irritation.
Use warm water or cold water instead to close the cuticle, leaving your hair shinier
and silkier.
Excessive Heat
Do straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers damage hair? Absolutely,
especially if used excessively and without proper protection. Heat exposure opens
the hair’s cuticle, making it brittle and prone to breakage, especially at the ends.
If you don’t use heat protectants or overuse heat tools, your hair becomes drier
and lifeless, with more visible damage.
Using Products with Parabens, Silicones, and Sulfates
Many shampoos, conditioners, and treatments contain harmful chemicals:
Parabens act as preservatives but can penetrate the skin, potentially causing
hormonal imbalances.
Silicones smooth hair but tend to accumulate over time, weighing it down and
making it appear dull.
Sulfates create foam and remove dirt but are harsh, stripping natural oils from the
scalp and causing dryness, frizz, and other problems.
Sleeping with Wet Hair
Going to bed with wet hair causes friction between your hair and the pillow, leading
to breakage and damage.
Additionally, trapped moisture under the scalp can encourage fungal and bacterial
growth, causing scalp issues like dandruff and itching.
Always dry your hair properly before sleeping. Avoid rubbing it vigorously with a
towel, as wet hair is more fragile. Instead, use a microfiber towel to gently absorb
excess moisture.
Not Protecting Hair from the Sun
Prolonged sun exposure weakens and dehydrates hair. Use hats or hair products
with UV protection to avoid sun damage.
Finally a good practice could be to choose organic and natural (Melanobars which contains 100%
natural ingredients) products for healthier hair.
Conclusion
Remember how important your hair is to your identity and self-care. Now that you
know the bad habits to avoid, apply these recommendations to maintain healthy
hair.
Tell us—which of these bad habits were you practicing?
