What Damages Hair?

I think it’s safe to say that by now we all know that over processing and over styling hair can lead to damage in both the short and long run. While not all damage is as significant as a burned off chunk of hair (think that poor girl with the now infamous YouTube video who singed off a chunk of hair thanks to a too-hot curling iron), it’s still wise to be cautious when it comes to handling your precious locks. While most people know that blow drying on high heat followed by a round of straightening every day is probably not the healthiest thing one can do with their hair, there are a few other (not so obvious) things you should avoid. 

 

 

Avoid Over-Washing

One of the best -- and easiest! -- ways to take care of your hair is to avoid washing it every day. While it might seem counterintuitive, cleaning your hair every day can actually do more harm than good. If you, however, are unable to part with your morning shower and hair washing routine, at least go for natural products that are free of parabens and sulfates. A quick Google search of “are sulfates bad for hair” will set you on the right path and teach you to embrace natural products – seriously, the search results are scary! Sulfates tend to strip hair of its natural oils and can lead to damaged, broken hair – and even hair loss – yikes! Washing with paraben/sulfate free products will put you on the path toward healthy hair; following the wash, air dry your hair when you are able, as air drying is one of the best ways to repair damaged hair. Trust, your locks will thank you!

 

 

 

 

Avoid Parabens & Sulfates

Following your eye opening search for “are sulfates bad for hair” (yes!), you’re likely wondering the best way to repair damaged hair. Also, what are some products for damaged hair? As mentioned above, a great way to start taking care of your hair is to skip the every morning wash, and to switch to natural shampoos that are sulfate AND paraben free. Don't believe us? Check out our article about why you should use sulfate and paraben free shampoo to get all the scary details. While a quick search of “products for damaged hair” will yield millions and millions of results, the good news is that, unlike what those sponsored posts and articles want you to believe, you don’t have to drop tons of money to fix your damaged hair. One of the most sworn by “products” is coconut oil; a coconut oil mask will mend your friz, your split ends, and even your dry scalp -- plus, it’ll leave your hair feeling soft and looking shiny! Other sworn by natural products are: shea butter, olive oil, and essential oils.

 

Tips & More

Other keys to healthy hair include regular haircuts (sometimes the only cure for split ends is to chop ‘em off!) and protecting your hair from the sun. Just as you cover your skin with SPF, make sure to cover your hair with a ball cap or sun hat when spending prolonged periods of time in the sun. Additionally, a healthy diet, vitamins, and drinking water will all keep your locks looking and feeling great. 

Pro tip: if you want to forego styling your hair, try wearing wigs – they'll give your natural hair a break while still allowing you to have a perfect hair day!

 

What's one change you'll make to your hair routine?

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