For eons, hairstyles have been a prominent beauty symbol for women worldwide. In most cultures, they accentuate femininity and stature. A 2019 survey by Dove revealed that 8 out of 10 women feel pressured to style their hair in specific ways to adhere to society’s beauty standards. Many women feel that people, especially other women, judge them by how their hair looks.
Unfortunately, you may be overworking and damaging your hair as you strive to give it the “perfect look.”
Below are six hairstyles that might be damaging your hair without your knowledge.
Hairstyles that may be damaging your hair
1. Tightly pulled ponytails, buns, and updos
While a sleek ponytail might be your favorite quick-fix hairstyle, pulling your hair too tightly every day can stress and break it. Similarly, buns and updos, if too tight, can thin and weaken hair. Avoid using thin, plastic rubber bands, which can cause breakage. Opt for thick, fabric-coated hairbands instead. If you’re concerned about long hair falling on your face, tie it gently with a silk headscarf. And for sleeping, silk or satin pillowcases are recommended to reduce friction.
2. Tight braids
Historically, braids have been more than just a hairstyle. They tell stories, depict heritage, and are a testament to skill. While they serve as an excellent protective hairstyle, tightness can be detrimental. To optimize the protective qualities of braids:
- Braid with a gentle hand, ensuring moderate tightness.
- Alternate periods of wearing braids with letting your hair down. This cycle helps the scalp and hair to rejuvenate.
- Regularly moisturize, ensuring that both the scalp and the length of the hair remain hydrated.
3. Hair colors
The world of hair colors offers a palette of endless possibilities. While it’s tempting to frequently switch hues, chemicals like ammonia and peroxides — found in many dyes — can be harsh, making hair brittle over time. Plus, not all colors flatter every skin tone. A platinum blonde or ash gray might sound trendy, but it’s essential to choose shades that complement your natural undertones. If you’ve been coloring often, consider natural or vegetable-based dyes for a while. Intensive conditioning treatments and hydrating masks can also aid in restoring hair health.
4. Wigs and extensions
A quick solution for length and volume, wigs and extensions have been game-changers in the hairstyling realm. However, the adhesives used, if not applied correctly, can obstruct the scalp’s pores, leading to issues like dryness and potential hair loss. The constant tug of extensions can also weaken the roots. Tracy Ftacek, CEO of Pretty Convenient, emphasizes the importance of giving natural hair breathing periods between extensions.
Professional application and periodic maintenance can extend the life of your extensions and preserve your natural hair’s health. You should also minimize the number of times you wash your hair to once or twice a week.
5. Styling damp hair
Styling wet hair might be a quick hack when running late, but you are damaging your hair. Damp or wet hair is weak and can snap as you try to comb through it, style, or tie it.
It is advisable to let your hair completely air-dry before styling it. If you are in a hurry, lightly dry it with a microfiber towel, then use a blow dryer on low heat to remove most of the moisture. Don’t forget to apply a heat protectant before using a blow dryer.
6. Teased poofs
Volume adds drama and character to hairstyles. But aggressive backcombing or teasing alters the hair’s natural direction, causing strain and potential breakage. Instead of physical teasing, consider products designed to uplift hair at the roots, giving the desired volume without the damage.
Protect your hair
Hair health is integral to overall well-being. Persistent strain, whether from tight hairstyles, chemical exposure, or heat, can lead to traction alopecia. This form of hair loss, while alarming, can be halted and reversed with timely intervention. A balanced approach to hairstyling, coupled with regular hair care routines, can ensure both beauty and health coexist. Your hair is a crown you never take off; treat it with the love and care it deserves.
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