Things That Can Damage Your Hair: Complete Guide

Your hair is one of the most important aspects of your appearance; it can make or break a look, and it's important to take care of it properly. Unfortunately, many things can damage your hair and cause it to become brittle, dry, and lifeless. In fact, you could be partaking in some damaging habits every day. With this in mind, let's get started!

Chemicals in Products

Firstly, when it comes to things that damage your hair, very little is more damaging than chemicals. This is especially true when you consider the fact that many people use products with harsh chemicals every day, without even realizing it. For example, sulfates are a type of detergent that's often found in shampoos, and they're known for stripping away natural oils from the hair. Elsewhere, dyes and bleaches can also contain harmful chemicals that can damage your hair over time.

If you're using products with harsh chemicals, it's important to take steps to protect your hair. For example, you can use a natural oil treatment before shampooing to help lock in moisture. You can also try to find products that are sulfate-free, or at least use them sparingly. And if you're coloring your hair, be sure to use a conditioner afterward to help repair any damage.

Brushing When Wet

As any barber shop in Denver CO will tell you, brushing your hair when it's wet is a recipe for disaster. Wet hair is much more susceptible to breakage, so you should always let it dry before you brush it. If you must brush it while wet, use a wide-toothed comb and be very gentle. Start from the bottom and work your way up, and be extra careful around any knots or tangles.

Too Much Heat

Too much heat can damage your hair in many ways. It can make it dry and brittle, cause split ends, and strip away your hair's natural oils. If you use heat styling tools, be sure to use a heat protectant spray and keep the temperature low or medium. What's more, when you're drying your hair, don't rub it vigorously with a towel - that can also cause damage. Instead, blot it dry gently.

Washing Daily

Although it sounds counter-intuitive, washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils and make it dry. If you have oily hair, you may need to wash it daily, but if your hair is on the drier side, try washing it every other day or even once every few days. When you do wash it, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner.

Using a Cotton Pillowcase

What can damage your hair? While the suggestions so far are perhaps known, this one may come as a surprise. If you sleep on a cotton pillowcase, your hair can become frizzy and damaged. The reason is that cotton absorbs moisture, which can leave your hair dry. Instead, opt for a silk or satin pillowcase, which will help keep your hair hydrated.

Not Trimming Your Ends Regularly

If you want healthy hair, it's important to get regular trims. This may seem counterintuitive, but trimming your hair helps get rid of split ends. When you have split ends, the damage can travel up the hair shaft, causing your hair to become unhealthy. Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks can help prevent this damage and keep your hair looking its best. This being said, you don't want to get your hair cut too frequently.

Keep these tips in mind to help keep your hair healthy and damage-free!