Think you’ve mastered the art of combing your hair? A conversation with Natasha Nasta, the style director at Jean-Claude Biguine Salons, might challenge that assumption. The seemingly straightforward act of combing could be riddled with mistakes that have been sabotaging your hair health all along. I delved into this revelation while speaking with Nasta, who emphasized that a slight tweak in your approach could make all the difference.
Contrary to popular belief, commencing your combing ritual from the scalp might not be the best practice. Nasta advises, “The key to effective combing lies in minimizing pressure on the scalp. It’s a common sight to witness people beginning to comb directly from the scalp, unwittingly causing stress to knotted hair. Opting to start combing from the mid-lengths to the ends and gradually working your way to the scalp not only reduces hair damage but also mitigates wear and tear.”
From the selection of your comb to the manner in which you untangle those stubborn knots, there’s a myriad of potential mistakes that might be compromising your hair’s strength and vitality every time you comb. Nasta generously shares a list of do’s and don’ts to adhere to for a hair-friendly combing routine.
Gentleness is Key
Vigorously combing your hair might feel efficient, but it’s a habit that can contribute to breakage and hair loss. A proactive approach involves applying a serum or hydration cream before you start combing. This preemptive step not only reduces breakage but also facilitates smoother combing, minimizing the risk of damage.
Detangling Wisdom
Rather than battling through stubborn knots with brute force, Nasta recommends reaching for a detangling serum or cream. These products are strategically applied to the mid-lengths and ends, targeting the knots. A wide-toothed comb is your ally in this process, allowing you to gently remove knots without subjecting your hair to excessive stress, thereby thwarting breakage and hair fall.
Mindful Wet Hair Combining
Wet hair is particularly delicate and prone to damage. To safeguard your strands, it’s advisable to abstain from exerting excessive pressure when combing. Instead, opt for towel-drying your hair and wait until it attains 40-60% dryness before embarking on combing with a wide-toothed comb. This cautious approach ensures minimal strain on your hair.
Proceed with Caution in Back-Combing
If back-combing is part of your hairstyling repertoire, bear in mind its potential repercussions. Frequent back-combing can induce breakage near the roots and mid-lengths of your hair. Nasta’s suggestion is to apply oil to your scalp and hair the night before. This pre-treatment with oil helps to naturally soften and detangle the hair, thus minimizing damage during the styling process.
In an era where hair care routines are ever-evolving, this expert advice sheds light on a facet of everyday grooming that is often overlooked. The simple act of combing, when approached with mindfulness, has the potential to elevate the health and appearance of your hair.
