Even beauty editors aren’t immune to the occasional hair care blunder, as one beauty aficionado discovered after consulting leading hairstylists about their cardinal hair care no-nos. In a surprising revelation, these experts unveiled a list of 8 hair care mistakes that often fly under the radar, even for seasoned beauty enthusiasts.
From brushing and washing routines to the application of conditioner, it appears there’s no shortage of pitfalls that can jeopardize the health of your hair. Here are the top 8 common culprits that even the most dedicated hair care enthusiasts might unwittingly commit.
1. Sleeping with Wet Hair
Numerous hairstylists warn against the perils of retiring with wet hair. According to Min Kim, hairstylist and L’Oréal Professionnel global ambassador, this practice can lead to bacterial and fungal growth, ultimately contributing to dandruff. Additionally, New York City hairstylist Dan Williams cautions that tight buns or ponytails with damp hair can lead to breakage due to the hair’s reduced elasticity when wet.
2. Conditioner at the Roots
Another prevalent hair care mistake is the application of conditioner directly to the roots, an unnecessary step that can weigh down the hair and leave it feeling flat, especially for those with fine hair, as noted by Min Kim. Celebrity hairstylist Marc Mena adds that conditioner on the scalp can result in greasiness and may even cause breakouts and hair loss over time.
3. Skipping Conditioner
Some hairstylists emphasize that skipping conditioner altogether is a faux pas to avoid. Jenna Spino, a hairstylist at Chicago’s Maxine Salon, recommends even those with fine hair to use conditioner, particularly on the ends. Tailoring the product to your hair texture is key, as stylist Marc Mena suggests sprays for finer hair, creams and lotions for medium to coarse textures, and careful consideration of serums. Leave-in conditioners, he adds, not only protect hair but also provide much-needed moisture, combat frizz, enhance shine, and strengthen hair.
4. Using Low-Quality Hair Products
Choosing quality shampoos and conditioners is vital to maintaining the integrity of your hair color and overall hair health. Some recommended products and lines include R+Co, Christophe Robin, and Olaplex. For budget-friendly options, L’Oréal Paris Everpure is an excellent drugstore choice, as advised by Suite Caroline’s preferred stylist, Robinson.
5. Conditioning Hair That’s Too Wet
Applying conditioner onto fully saturated hair can lead to ineffective penetration of the product. Min Kim underscores the importance of squeezing out excess water before conditioning to allow the conditioner to work its magic.
6. Washing Hair with Scalding Hot Water
Using very hot water for hair washing can have adverse effects on your hair, skin, and hair color longevity, especially for those with color-treated hair. Hairstylist Dan Williams highlights the damaging consequences of hot water, including burns to the scalp and hair, dryness, and overall damage.
7. Neglecting Pre-Wash Brushing
A smart pre-shower move is brushing dry hair to eliminate tangles, minimizing post-shower detangling. Brushing wet, fragile hair can lead to damage, making this precautionary step highly recommended by Marc Mena.
8. Choosing the Wrong Brush for Wet Hair
When it comes to brushing wet hair, hairstylist Dan Williams emphasizes the importance of using a detangling brush in the shower, particularly for individuals with long hair. He recommends the Tangle Teezer brushes for this purpose, ensuring safe detangling without causing further harm to delicate wet strands.
As you embark on your hair care journey, keep these expert insights in mind to ensure your tresses stay healthy and vibrant. Remember, the road to luscious locks begins with avoiding these common pitfalls. Cheers to healthier hair in the near future!
