The world of haircare is home to more myths than split ends. From grandma’s age-old wisdom to influencers’ flashy claims, it is rather easy to become a victim of misinformation. However, here is the truth: believing this can do more damage than good for your beautiful hair.
Let’s debunk most of the prevalent haircare myths to give your hair the love it deserves.
1. Trimming Your Hair Frequently Makes it Grow Faster
The Truth: Hair grows from your scalp, not the ends. Regular trims help prevent split ends, which can make your hair look healthier, but they don’t affect the rate of growth. On average, hair grows about half an inch per month, regardless of trims.
What to Do Instead: Cut your locks every 6-8 weeks to keep the bottom healthy but give your hair appropriate nourishment via healthy food choices, scalp cleanliness, and hydration.
2. Washing Your Hair Daily Keeps It Healthy
Over washing strips the scalp of its essential oils; it dries out the hair, making it brittle. This does not have much to do with frequency; it’s what works for your scalp type.
What to Do Instead: If your scalp is oily, try to wash your hair every other day. If it is dry and curly, wash your hair only 2-3 times a week. Purchase the sulfate-free shampoos and nourishing conditioners available on the market for the best performance.
3. Hair Products Lose Performance Over Time
The Truth: Your hair doesn’t develop “immunity” to products. When a product ceases to work, it is more often due to residue buildup or changing needs—like seasonal shifts or damage.
What to Do Instead: Cleanse your hair once a month with detox shampoo to cleanse buildup. Adjust your routine based on the change in your hair condition.
4. Brushing Your Hair 100 Times a Day Makes It Shinier
The Truth: Brushing your hair too much can cause breakage and weaken your strands. Although brushing your hair spreads out the natural oils, it may do more damage than good when done too often.
What to Do Instead: Use a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush to gently detangle and smooth your hair. A few strokes for styling and distribution of oils is enough!
5. Air Drying Is Always Better Than Blow Drying
The Truth: Air drying may reduce heat damage, but sometimes it can cause frizz or weaken hair if left wet for too long. If done right, blow drying is gentler. What to Do Instead: Use a heat protectant and blow dry on a low or medium setting, keeping the dryer at least 6 inches away from your hair. If air drying, blot your hair with a microfiber towel to speed up drying time.
6. Hair Oils Will Make Your Hair Greasy
The Truth: Used properly, hair oils nourish your strands without leaving them greasy. Key is to use the right amount and focus on the ends instead of the scalp.
What to Do Instead: Use light oil, like argan or jojoba, and begin with just a drop or two. Warm it in your palms and smooth it onto the ends of your hair for a glossy finish.
7. Dandruff Is Caused by a Dry Scalp
Reality: Dandruff is more often the result of an overgrowth of yeast, not dryness. Using heavy oils or skipping washes can make things worse.
What to Do Instead: Use an anti-dandruff shampoo containing active ingredients such as zinc pyrithione or ketoconazole. Keep your scalp clean and avoid overloading it with products.
Final Thoughts
Getting away from hair care myths can make the transition towards healthier and happier hair possible. The next time you get to hear questionable advice, be sure to cross-check before adopting such changes to your routine.
Know that no hair is identical. There will always be no right or wrong rule. Always adhere to whatever suits you. And do not allow myths to ruin your hair journey.
Have you fallen for any of these myths? Let us know in the comments below!
