Breaking Bad Hair Habits

 

1. Rough-housing wet hair:

Although it may seem that when your hair is wet it is easier to handle, the truth of the matter is that when your hair is soaking wet, it is weaker, fragile and more susceptible to breakage. When stepping out of the shower, try not to rough-dry your hair with a towel – instead gently press the water out. Also, it is important not brush your hair while it is wet, but instead, use a wide-tooth comb, working from the ends of your hair on up to the root. At your salon, you don’t see your hair stylist aggressive roughing up and rubbing your hair with a towel. Treat your hair like a fine piece of fabric – when you buy a nice blouse, you don’t toss it into the machine if it’s dry clean only.

2. Using a dirty hair brush:

It may not be apparent upon first glance, but your hair brush can actually be breeding grounds for bacteria. Brushes covered in hair, oil, product build-up and even dust mites can be harmful to your hair, and it could prevent that shine and softness your hair truly deserves. It is important to clean your hair brush at least once a month with a mixture of baking soda and lukewarm water. You can even use a toothbrush to get in between the tiny bristles. Another great tip would be to shampoo your brush, by filling up the sink with warm water, adding a tablespoon of shampoo, and washing the brush and bristles thoroughly inside the sink. Remember to rinse well and let it drink completely. 

3. Over-drying your hair:

We all want to achieve silky smooth locks by going to great lengths to eliminate frizz… even if that sometimes means over using heat-styling tools like a blow dryer and flat iron. Unless you're replenishing lost moisture with regular oil treatments, then you're actually doing more harm than good, especially on color on chemical-treated hair. It is important to practice better styling habits by turning down the heat on your tools, and using extra virgin coconut oil as an overnight hair conditioner. Make sure to continuously use leave-in conditioners in the shower, and always moisturize even after coming out of the shower. Don’t forget to allow your locks to air-dry 80% of the way before turning heat on your hair from a blow-dryer.

4. Putting your ponytail in the same spot:

We all do it – lazy Sundays, gym days, and running errands always seem to consist of throwing your hair up into a pony tail… in the same exact spot. It’s instinct to always place our pony tails the exact same way, which means that elastic is in exactly the same spot every single time. Eventually, that section of your hair will start to show wear and tear, resulting in unhealthy hair. Your hair will start to crease and maybe even form an unwarranted cowlick from the repetitive pony. Try shifting the elastic even half an inch up or downwards to avoid causing strain and breakage.