You’re standing in front of the mirror, brush in hand, wondering why your hair looks less than stellar. We all know the feeling.
It sucks when your locks aren’t living up to their full potential. But here’s the thing – it might not be your hair’s fault at all. In fact, the culprit could be staring right back at you.
Let’s face it, we’re all guilty of some not-so-great hair habits. I’ve certainly had my fair share of hair mishaps. Remember that time I thought I could go a whole year without a trim? Big mistake. Huge.
But knowledge is power, and today we’re going to uncover the seven worst habits that are secretly sabotaging your hair game.
Are you ready to turn those bad hair days into a thing of the past? Let’s do it.
Table of Contents
#1 Skipping trims
I get it, we all want Rapunzel-length hair. But those split ends? They’re not doing you any favors.
Regular trims keep your hair healthy and actually help it grow faster. It’s true.
Celebrity hairstylist Jen Atkin tells us, “Skipping trims can lead to split ends, which travel up the hair shaft and cause more breakage. Regular trims help maintain the health of your hair.”
Expert Insights
Do: Schedule a trim every 6-8 weeks
Don’t: Wait until your ends are visibly damaged
#2 Over-washing
Washing your hair daily might seem like a good idea, but it’s stripping your scalp of its natural oils. Try cutting back to every other day or even twice a week. Your hair will thank you.
Renowned trichologist Anabel Kingsley says, “Washing your hair too frequently strips the scalp of its natural oils, which can lead to dryness and irritation. Try to extend the time between washes.”
Expert Insights
Do: Wash your hair no more than 2-3 times a week
Don’t: Shampoo daily
#3 Heat styling without protection
Hands up if you’ve ever skipped heat protectant because you were in a rush. (My hand is definitely up.)
But seriously, that extra minute can save your strands from some serious damage.
Top stylist Kristin Ess warns, “Heat damage is one of the biggest culprits of unhealthy hair. Always use a heat protectant spray to create a barrier between your hair and the heat tool.”
Expert Insights
Do: Always use a heat protectant before styling
Don’t: Apply heat tools directly to unprotected hair
#4 Rough towel-drying
Rubbing your hair with a towel might seem like the quickest way to dry it, but it’s causing more harm than good. Try gently squeezing out excess water instead.
Super Stylist Vernon François advises, “Roughly towel-drying your hair can cause friction and breakage. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water or use a microfiber towel.”
Expert Insights
Do: Pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel
Don’t: Vigorously rub your hair with a regular towel
#5 Sleeping on cotton pillowcases
This one surprised me too. Switching to silk or satin pillowcases can reduce friction and keep your hair smoother. Plus, it feels super luxe and is great for your skin too.
Celebrity hairdresser Chris Appleton reveals, “Cotton pillowcases can cause friction, leading to tangles and breakage. Switching to silk or satin pillowcases is a game changer for hair health.”
Expert Insights
Do: Invest in silk or satin pillowcases
Don’t: Sleep on rough cotton pillowcases
#6 Tight hairstyles
I love a good high pony as much as the next girl, but wearing tight styles too often can lead to breakage and even hair loss.
Give your scalp a break with looser hairstyles now and then.
Hair expert Harry Josh states, “Wearing tight hairstyles too often can cause tension on the hair shaft and lead to breakage. It’s important to give your hair a break with looser styles.”
Expert Insights
Do: Alternate between tight and loose hairstyles
Don’t: Wear tight styles every day
#7 Ignoring your diet
Your hair is what you eat, literally. A balanced diet with plenty of protein and vitamins can make a world of difference to your locks.
I personally love a hair health smoothie every morning to give me a wake up boost.
Nutritionist and hair specialist Dr. Megan Rossi emphasizes, “A balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins is essential for healthy hair. Nutritional deficiencies can manifest as hair loss or poor hair quality.”
Expert Insights
Do: Eat a balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins
Don’t: Neglect your nutritional intake
So, which of these are you guilty of?
I’m curious to know if any of these surprise you. Remember, it’s never too late to break a bad habit and give your hair the TLC it deserves. Here’s to healthier, happier hair days ahead!
Got a great hair tip? We’d love to hear it! Tag us on Instagram @coloredhaircare or Facebook and share your hair success stories. Looking for more hair care tips? Check out How to Look After Colored Hair: 11 Expert Secrets For Long-Lasting Color.
Our Research & Review Process
To ensure our recommendations are as comprehensive and reliable as possible, we’ve undertaken an extensive research effort.
We cite scientific evidence and journals, collect real user reviews and gather impartial perspectives from hair stylists, users, and experts in the field.
Additionally, we conduct hands-on testing by using products and applying hair dyes not only on our own locks but also on real human hair extensions and hair pieces of different hair type, textures and lengths.
This rigorous approach allows us to provide you with insights into which products genuinely live up to their promises.
As always – please consult with a professional hair colorist or stylist for advice on how to color your own hair at home. It’s different for everyone!
