When it comes to hair care, we usually think of applying hair masks, oiling the hair, and using the right shampoo and conditioner.

While these can all be helpful, it’s important to remember that our daily habits can also have a significant impact on the health of our hair. In fact, some of the habits we engage in regularly may be making our hair weaker and more prone to damage.

Habit 1: Tight Hairstyles

Wearing tight hairstyles such as braids, buns, and ponytails can put a lot of tension on the hair shaft, and over time, this can weaken the hair strands.

Additionally, tight hairstyles can cause the hair to break off at the point where the hair is pulled tightly. If you must wear tight hairstyles, consider wearing them for short periods of time and switching up your hairstyle frequently to avoid putting too much stress on the hair.

Habit 2: Heat Styling

It’s no secret that heat styling tools such as flat irons and curling wands can damage the hair. When we apply heat to the hair, it can cause the hair shaft to become dry and brittle, making it more prone to breakage.

If you can’t go without heat styling tools, make sure to use a heat protectant spray before using them and avoid using them on high heat settings. Additionally, give your hair a break from heat styling every now and then and opt for no-heat hairstyles instead.

Habit 3: Using the Wrong Hairbrush

Using the wrong hairbrush can cause damage to the hair as well. For instance, using a brush with metal bristles can cause the hair to break off at the point where the bristles meet the hair shaft.

Similarly, using a brush with stiff bristles can cause damage to the hair cuticle. To avoid this, opt for a brush with soft, natural bristles or a wide-tooth comb to detangle your hair.

Habit 4: Overwashing

Washing your hair too often can strip it of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to breakage. Additionally, certain shampoos can be harsh on the hair, causing it to become dry and damaged.

If you have particularly oily hair, you may be tempted to wash it every day, but try to resist this urge. Instead, try washing your hair every other day or every few days and use a gentle shampoo that won’t dry out your hair.

Habit 5: Skipping Conditioner

Skipping conditioner can also be detrimental to the health of your hair. Conditioner helps to moisturize and protect the hair, making it less prone to breakage and damage.

If you have fine hair, opt for a lightweight conditioner that won’t weigh your hair down. If you have thicker, coarser hair, consider using a deep conditioning treatment once a week to keep your hair moisturized and healthy.

Habit 6: Tight Towel Drying

It can be tempting to rub your hair vigorously with a towel to dry it off quickly, but this can cause damage to the hair cuticle and lead to breakage.

Instead, gently blot your hair with a soft towel or an old t-shirt to remove excess water, and let your hair air-dry as much as possible.

Habit 7: Using Harsh Chemicals

Using harsh chemicals on your hair, such as bleach and hair dyes, can cause significant damage to the hair. These chemicals can strip the hair shaft of its natural oils, causing the hair to become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.

If you must use these types of products, make sure to use a deep conditioning treatment afterwards to help replenish the moisture in your hair.

Habit 8: Neglecting Your Diet

Your diet can also have an impact on the health of your hair. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can provide your hair with the nutrients it needs to grow and be healthy.

Additionally, drinking plenty of water can help keep your hair hydrated and less prone to breakage.

Habit 9: Stress

Believe it or not, stress can also have an impact on the health of your hair. When we are stressed, our bodies produce hormones that can cause the hair to become dry and brittle, making it more prone to breakage.

Additionally, stress can cause us to engage in other bad habits that can damage our hair, such as overwashing or not eating a balanced diet. To help reduce stress, try engaging in activities such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Habit 10: Neglecting Regular Trims

Regular trims are essential to keeping your hair healthy and strong. Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks can help get rid of split ends, which can cause the hair to break off and become weaker over time.

Additionally, getting regular trims can help keep your hair looking healthy and full.

Conclusion

If you want to keep your hair healthy and strong, it’s important to pay attention to your daily habits and make changes where necessary.

By avoiding tight hairstyles, using the right hairbrush, washing and conditioning your hair properly, and eating a balanced diet, you can help prevent damage to your hair and keep it looking and feeling healthy.