GON Reader Question
Dear Maria,
I’ve been struggling with keeping my hair healthy and shiny. I feel like I’m doing everything right—washing
regularly, using good products, and styling it carefully—but it still feels dry and looks dull.
Could I be making some mistakes without realizing it? What are some organized things I can do to improve my hair’s condition??
-- Laura in Helen, GA
Maria's
Response
Hi Helen,
I completely understand your frustration, and I’m so glad you reached out.
Taking care of your hair can sometimes feel like a never-ending battle, especially when you’re doing everything you think is right. But don’t worry—you’re not alone in this! There are some common hair care mistakes that many of us make without even realizing it, and they can really affect the health and appearance of our hair.
Let’s
dive into some of these mistakes and how you can avoid them to get your hair back to looking its best.
1. Overwashing Your Hair
Washing your hair every day might seem like a good idea, especially if you love the feeling of freshly cleaned
locks. However, overwashing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, frizz, and even an itchy scalp.
Instead, aim to wash your hair 2-3 times a week, depending on your hair type. If you’re prone to oiliness, try a dry shampoo between washes to keep your hair fresh without the extra wash. 2. Skipping Heat Protection
We all love the sleek look of straightened hair or the bounce of freshly curled locks. But using heat-styling tools without proper protection can lead to serious damage.
Always apply a heat protectant spray before using your
straightener, curling iron, or blow dryer. This simple step can prevent breakage, split ends, and that dreaded fried-hair texture. 3. Using the Wrong Hair Products
Not all hair products are created equal, and what works for one person
might not work for you. Using products that don’t match your hair type can lead to a whole host of problems, from dullness to excessive oiliness or dryness.
If your hair is fine, opt for lightweight products that won’t weigh it down. If your hair is curly, choose
moisturizing and frizz-fighting formulas. It’s worth taking the time to find the right products for your hair’s unique needs.
4. Brushing Wet Hair
Wet hair is more fragile than dry hair, making it more prone to breakage. Yet, many of us
grab a brush right out of the shower, thinking it will help detangle knots.
Instead, use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to gently detangle wet hair, starting at the ends and working your way up. This will help prevent unnecessary damage and keep your hair
looking smooth.
5. Towel-Drying Too RoughlyIt’s natural to want to get your hair dry as quickly as possible after a shower, but rough towel-drying can cause breakage and frizz. Instead of rubbing your hair vigorously with a towel, gently
squeeze out excess water and pat your hair dry. Better yet, switch to a microfiber towel or a soft t-shirt, which are much gentler on your
strands. 6. Ignoring Regular Trims
Even if you’re trying to grow your hair out, skipping regular trims can do more harm than good. Split ends can travel up the hair shaft, leading to breakage and a ragged appearance. Schedule a trim every
6-8 weeks to keep your ends healthy and your hair looking its best.
7. Tight Hairstyles
We all love a good ponytail or top knot, but wearing your hair in tight hairstyles every day can cause tension on your scalp and lead to hair breakage
or even hair loss over time. Try to alternate your hairstyles and avoid pulling your hair too tightly. On days when you do pull your hair back, opt for a loose style to give your scalp a break.
8. Choosing the Wrong Shampoo Ingredients
When selecting a shampoo, it’s crucial to pay attention to the ingredients. Some common cleansing agents, known as sulfates, can be too harsh for your hair, stripping it of natural oils and leading to dryness and irritation. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best shampoo for your hair:
Ammonium
Lauryl Sulfate – Very harsh and can be too aggressive for most hair types, especially if your hair is fine or color-treated.
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate – Slightly less harsh but still too strong for regular use, particularly if you’re aiming to maintain your hair’s natural moisture balance.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – A common ingredient, SLS is still quite harsh and can leave your hair feeling stripped and dry.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) – A milder alternative to SLS, Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a better
choice for a gentler cleanse that doesn’t sacrifice lathering power.
TEA Lauryl Sulfate – A gentle option, making it a good choice for those with sensitive scalps or dry hair. It cleanses effectively without being too harsh.
TEA Laureth Sulfate – Another gentle sulfate, TEA Laureth Sulfate is similar to TEA Lauryl Sulfate and is great for maintaining your hair’s moisture while still getting it clean.
When shopping for shampoo, look for products that contain gentler sulfates like Sodium
Laureth Sulfate or TEA Lauryl Sulfate, especially if you have dry, damaged, or color-treated hair. These ingredients will help keep your hair clean without causing unnecessary damage.
Caring for your hair doesn’t have to be complicated, but avoiding these common mistakes can make a big difference in how your hair looks and feels. By
being mindful of how you treat your hair—whether it’s using the right products, protecting it from heat, or giving it a break from tight styles—you’ll be on your way to healthier, happier hair in no time.
Remember, your hair is a reflection of how you care for it. Treat it well, and it will return the favor with shine, strength, and
beauty!
I hope this information and advice helps!
