In our quest for dazzling, goddess-level hair, we sometimes make choices that, oops, do more harm than good.
Hair, especially when damaged, becomes delicate and prone to breakage, which can lead to the dreaded frizz, a dull look, or even thinning and bald patches if the damage goes unchecked.
But here’s the silver lining: small, smart changes can protect your tresses and stop further damage in its tracks. Below, discover ten common habits that may be sabotaging your strands—plus dermatologist-approved swaps to keep your hair happy and healthy.
1. Scrubbing shampoo through your hair like it owes you money
Better way:
- Gently massage shampoo into your scalp only.
- When rinsing, let the suds slide down your strands—no need to scrub the lengths.
2. Skipping conditioner (your hair’s best friend!)
Better way:
- Always follow up with conditioner after shampooing to restore moisture and smoothness.
3. Vigorously towel-drying like you’re polishing silver
Better way:
- Gently wrap your hair in a soft towel to blot excess water.
- Air-dry whenever you can—your hair will thank you.
4. Brushing wet hair like it’s a race against time
Better way:
- Straight hair? Let it dry a bit first, then gently detangle with a wide-tooth comb.
- Textured or curly hair? Comb while damp, and still use that wide-tooth comb.
5. Overheating with blow dryers, curling irons, or hot combs
Better way:
- Embrace the air-dry life when possible.
- Use the lowest heat setting, and don’t linger in one spot.
- Limit hot tool use to once a week—or less!
6. Using super-hold styling products that could double as glue
Better way:
- Try styles that don’t require industrial-strength hold—your strands will breathe easier.
7. Constantly pulling hair tight into ponytails, buns, or braids
Better way:
- Opt for looser styles that don’t tug at your roots.
- Use fabric-covered bands made for hair.
- Switch up your look to avoid repeated stress on the same areas.
8. Relying on weaves or extensions 24/7
Better way:
- Choose lightweight options that don’t strain your scalp.
- Go to a pro who specializes in these styles.
- Don’t wear them for more than 2–3 months at a time.
- Keep your scalp clean and healthy.
- Give your natural hair regular breaks.
9. Coloring, relaxing, or perming like you’re changing with the seasons
Better way:
- Stretch out time between treatments—especially in winter.
- If doing multiple services, space them out: relax/perm first, then color two weeks later.
- Always condition after shampooing.
- Protect your hair from the sun with a zinc oxide leave-in or a chic wide-brim hat.
10. Brushing 100 strokes a day like a fairy-tale princess (but with real-world split ends)
Better way:
- Only brush or comb to style—not for sport.
- Be gentle, use a wide-tooth comb, and work through tangles patiently.
- Add a bit of conditioner if knots need extra convincing.
Moral of the story? A little TLC goes a long way. With a few thoughtful tweaks to your routine, you can go from frazzled to fabulous—no magic wand required.