Stop Believing These Hair Myths
A lot of us have at one time or another heard advice on how to have healthier, fuller looking hair. Some of these myths have been going around for a long time and while some may hold truth there are many that may actually be doing more harm than good to your hair. That is why we have decided it was time to break down some of these hair myths.
Myth 1 – Brush your hair with 100 strokes a day for healthy hair.
The fact is, brushing your hair causes friction. If you brush your hair to excess (like 100 strokes), it will damage your hair. This is especially true if your hair is weak, thin or fragile. That is not to say that there are some benefits to brushing your hair gently and briefly to help stimulate scalp circulation and help to distribute your natural oils from roots to tips. Using a natural bristle brush on dry hair, give it a few strokes. Never brush wet hair or use a brush that has broken bristles.
Myth 2 – Stress turns your hair gray
I am happy to say that this myth is false. If this were true, we would all have gray hair by high school. Going gray is a genetic thing. When the cells produce melanin which is your hair pigment, stops producing color then your hair turns gray. There is no proof that suggests that stress will accelerate gray hairs, but it can cause other issues. High-stress levels can push the hair growth phase ahead. Which could make three months from now you could experience more hair fall out than usual.
Myth 3 – Ponytails, dreads, and braids are a stylish daily choice
This is true but if you put constant tension and traction on your hair with styles that are pulled tight like with ponytails, braids, weaves, dreadlocks and more, your hair could suffer. Your can may begin to recede or have breakage that can have your hair looking more thin, weakened and damaged. This can often be the cause of traction alopecia that mimics female pattern baldness. Try a soft updo that leaves loose pieces dangling. Giving your hair a break from tension will help your hair feel relaxed.
Myth 4 – Color takes better on dirty hair
Nothing could be farther from the truth. When you color your hair, it is best to clean your hair so it is free from styling product buildup and residue. Wash your hair the night before and then conditioner as usual. Skin using any type of styling products like hair gels, dry shampoo, mousse or serums. Your natural oils that coat your hair can actually act as a barrier during the chemical processing. After having your hair colored, wait 72 hours before washing your hair again. This allows time for your color to be fully trapped in the cuticle.
Myth 5 – Fine, thin hair should skip conditioner
You should never skip using a shampoo and conditioner and you also should not use the combo shampoo and conditioners. Use a separate conditioner after washing your hair thoroughly will add moisturizing, nourishment that will help hydrate your hair. It helps to keep wet hair from developing tangles and gives your hair a healthy and fuller look. Today there are high-tech formulas in foam, serum, and liquid that are weightless and use a combo of botanical extracts, protein, and antioxidants to add body, strength, and shine. Even leave-in conditioners keep hair feeling clean, keep strands separate and allow hair to blow-dry to a bouncy and full finish. When using a conditioner, apply it from mid-shaft to the ends and avoid the root area.
If you should notice that you have more hair than normal in your brush or shower drain, this could be the beginning of developing hair loss. If this is you then you should consult with your doctor or a hair loss specialist that can access why your hair loss has started and can work with you to help you regain a full head of hair. Today there are treatments from laser hair therapy, topicals, human hair wigs, hair replacements and hair restoration solutions.
