When it comes to our hair, we often go to great lengths to make it look its best. However, sometimes our hairdos may be doing more harm than good.

From tight styles to damaging heat, here are 10 hairdos that are secretly harming your hair, without your awareness.

1. Tight Ponytails

Ponytails may seem like a simple and convenient hairstyle, but wearing them too tightly can cause significant damage to your hair. The constant tension and pulling can lead to hair breakage and even hair loss over time.

Opt for looser, more comfortable ponytails, or try other hairstyles that don’t put as much stress on your hair.

2. Heat Styling

While heat styling tools like straighteners and curling irons can give you the desired look, excessive use of heat can damage your hair fibers. The high temperatures strip your hair of its natural moisture, making it dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

If possible, limit the use of heat styling tools or use them on lower heat settings to minimize damage.

3. Tight Buns or Updos

Similar to tight ponytails, buns or updos that are styled too tightly can put strain on your hair.

Pulling your hair tightly into a bun or updo can cause hair breakage and even lead to traction alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss due to constant tension on the hair follicles. Opt for looser, more relaxed styles to reduce the risk of damage.

4. Excessive Backcombing

Backcombing, also known as teasing, can add volume and texture to your hair, but excessive backcombing can harm the hair shaft. When you backcomb your hair aggressively, you cause the hair cuticles to lift, resulting in hair breakage and damage.

If you want to add volume, try using volumizing products or teasing gently to minimize potential harm.

5. Tight Cornrows or Braids

Cornrows and braids can be a great protective style, but if they are pulled too tightly, they can cause scalp damage and hair breakage. Traction alopecia is common among individuals who consistently wear tight cornrows or braids.

Make sure your hairstylist knows how to create a comfortable tension for your braided hairstyles to avoid unnecessary damage.

6. Chemical Processing

Chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, and hair colorants can transform your hair, but they can also leave it weak, dry, and prone to breakage.

These treatments often involve harsh chemicals that disrupt the hair’s natural structure, leading to damage. If you choose to undergo chemical processing, make sure to follow proper aftercare routines and minimize overlapping treatments to protect your hair.

7. Heavy Extensions

While hair extensions can enhance your hair’s length and fullness, using heavy or poorly applied extensions can strain your hair and scalp. The added weight can pull on your natural hair, causing it to weaken and break.

Additionally, improperly attached extensions can lead to hair tangling, matting, and even scalp infections. Consult with a professional stylist to ensure extensions are applied correctly and choose lighter options when possible.

8. Using Hair Accessories That Cause Friction

Hair accessories such as tight headbands, rubber bands, or metal clips can create friction and damage your hair. Constant rubbing of these accessories against your hair can lead to breakage and even hair loss in severe cases.

Opt for hair-friendly accessories made from soft materials and avoid using them excessively or for extended periods.

9. Sleeping with Hair Tied Up

While tying your hair up while sleeping may seem like a good way to keep it under control, it can actually cause damage. Tossing and turning during sleep can pull on your hair, leading to breakage and hair loss.

To protect your hair while you sleep, consider using a satin or silk pillowcase that reduces friction or loosely tie your hair with a scrunchie to avoid excessive tension.

10. Overwashing and Overbrushing

Washing your hair too frequently and brushing it excessively can strip away natural oils, making your hair dry and prone to damage. Overwashing can disrupt the scalp’s balance, leading to issues like dandruff and scalp irritation.

Excessive brushing, especially when your hair is wet, can cause breakage and weaken the strands. Aim for a balanced hair washing schedule and be gentle when brushing, especially in wet hair.