Everyone has that one friend with perfect hair – always glossy, perfectly styled and voluminous. If you’re not that person, it can be frustrating to see hair that just seems to behave better.

The good news is that we all have the potential for great hair, but it’s not just about genetics. It’s possible that you may be making mistakes that are hindering your hair from reaching its full potential. Here are 30 reasons your hair may not be as dreamy as you wish it was.

1. You’re using the wrong products for your hair type

Using the wrong products can be a big reason why your hair isn’t as dreamy as it could be. If you have fine hair, for example, you’ll want to use lightweight products that won’t weigh it down.

Conversely, if you have curly hair, you’ll want to use products that will help define your curls.

2. Your shampoo routine needs an update

Are you still washing your hair every single day? This could be the reason your hair isn’t looking its best. Over-washing can strip your hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and damage. Try washing your hair every other day instead.

3. You’re not conditioning enough

Conditioner is your friend. It helps to keep your hair soft, hydrated and moisturized. Make sure you’re taking the time to condition your hair every time you wash it, and perhaps consider using a leave-in conditioner as well for extra hydration.

4. You’re using hot tools too often

Flat irons, curling irons and hair dryers can do wonders for your hair, but using them too often can cause damage. Try to limit your use of hot tools to only special occasions, and when you do use them, make sure to use a heat protectant first.

5. Your diet needs a makeover

What you eat can have a big impact on your hair’s health. Eating a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients can help to keep your hair looking healthy and shiny. Some of the best foods for hair health include salmon, avocados, spinach and sweet potatoes.

6. You’re not drinking enough water

Drinking enough water is crucial for overall health, and the same goes for your hair. If you’re not drinking enough water, your hair can become dry and brittle.

7. You’re not sleeping enough

Sleep is important for a number of reasons, including hair health. While you sleep, your body repairs itself, including your hair. Without enough sleep, your hair may become dry, brittle and prone to breakage.

8. You’re not protecting your hair from the elements

The sun, wind, rain and other elements can all take a toll on your hair. Try wearing a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun, and use a leave-in conditioner or serum to protect it from the wind.

9. You’re brushing too aggressively

Brushing your hair is important for removing tangles and distributing natural oils, but if you’re brushing too aggressively, you could be causing damage. Try using a wide-tooth comb or gentle brush, and avoid ripping through tangles.

10. You’re not getting regular trims

Regular trims are essential for healthy hair. They help to prevent split ends and keep your hair looking and feeling healthy. Aim to get a trim every six to eight weeks.

11. You’re not protecting your hair at night

When you sleep, your hair can become tangled and prone to breakage. To prevent this, try sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase, and consider tying your hair up in a loose bun or braid.

12. You’re not washing your hairbrush often enough

If you’re not washing your hairbrush regularly, it could be transferring dirt, oil and product buildup back onto your hair. Try washing your hairbrush at least once a week to keep it clean.

13. You’re using too much product

Using too much product can weigh down your hair and make it look greasy. Remember, a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount of product and add more as needed.

14. You’re using the wrong hair ties

Some hair ties can be damaging to your hair, especially if they’re too tight or too rough. Consider using gentle hair ties, such as scrunchies or fabric-covered elastics.

15. You’re not using a clarifying shampoo

Over time, product buildup can affect your hair’s health and appearance. Using a clarifying shampoo once a month can help to remove buildup and keep your hair looking and feeling clean.

16. You’re not protecting your hair when swimming

Chlorine and salt water can both be damaging to your hair. Try wearing a swim cap or rinsing your hair with fresh water before and after swimming to protect it from the effects of chlorine and salt water.

17. You’re using too much heat on your hair

Using hot water to wash your hair can be damaging, as can using a hair dryer on high heat. Try using lukewarm water to wash your hair, and use a cooler setting on your hair dryer when possible.

18. You’re not deep conditioning enough

Deep conditioning can help to keep your hair hydrated, healthy and shiny. Try using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to give your hair an extra boost of moisture.

19. You’re not protecting your hair during exercise

Sweat can be damaging to your hair, especially if you’re not washing it right away. Try wearing your hair up in a ponytail or bun during exercise, and wash your hair as soon as possible afterwards.

20. You’re not using a wide-tooth comb

Using a wide-tooth comb is gentler on your hair than a brush, and can help to prevent breakage and tangles. Consider using a wide-tooth comb after washing your hair to get rid of tangles.

21. You’re not protecting your hair from the cold

Cold weather can be damaging to your hair, making it dry and prone to breakage. Try wearing a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the cold, and use a leave-in conditioner or serum to keep it hydrated.

22. You’re not taking care of your scalp

Your hair’s health starts at the scalp. Make sure you’re taking care of your scalp by washing it regularly and massaging it to promote blood flow and circulation.

23. You’re not using the right hair brush

Using the wrong hair brush can cause damage, tangles and breakage. Consider using a boar bristle brush for normal to dry hair, and a nylon brush for thicker or coarse hair.

24. You’re not using the right amount of product

Using too little product can make it ineffective, while using too much can weigh down your hair. Follow the instructions on the product’s label for the right amount to use.

25. You’re not using the right shampoo

Using the wrong shampoo can cause damage to your hair. If you have color-treated hair, for example, you’ll want to use a shampoo that’s safe for color-treated hair.

26. You’re not taking care of split ends

Split ends can make your hair look dull and damaged. Make sure you’re taking care of split ends by getting regular trims and using a hair serum to keep them at bay.

27. You’re not protecting your hair during sun exposure

The sun can be damaging to your hair, causing dryness, breakage and color fading. Try wearing a hat or scarf to protect your hair from the sun’s harmful rays, and use a leave-in conditioner or serum to keep it hydrated.

28. You’re not using a balancing product

If your hair is prone to oiliness, try using a balancing product such as apple cider vinegar to help regulate oil production.

29. You’re not using an anti-frizz product

If your hair is prone to frizz, using an anti-frizz product can help to keep your hair looking smooth and shiny.

30. You’re not using a heat protectant

Using hot tools without a heat protectant can cause serious damage to your hair. Always use a heat protectant before using hot tools to keep your hair healthy and protected.