5 Practical Ways to Stop Hair Breakage
Before you start panicking, remember a little bit of shredding is completely normal. It’s only when you notice more and more hair strands falling out by the day when you brush or wash it that it becomes a problem. So, if you want to minimize (or cease) your hair’s suffering, here are a few practical steps you can take. Adopt these good habits into your hair care routine and your hair will love you for it!
Avoid brushing when it’s wet
Believe it or not, wet hair is much more vulnerable than dry hair. Wait for your hair to dry before you start tackling the knots. Yes, wait. Allow your hair to air dry and stop yourself if you are reaching for that hairdryer. Once it's dry, remember to work through the entanglements gently with a comb.
Stop using hair extensions
If you are reading this, this might be a sign that you should ditch the extensions! Whether you use clip-ins, keratin bond variations or micro-rings, the weight of the extensions are pulling on your scalp, causing strain and stress on the follicles. This can lead to bald spots (eeek!) and hair thinning.
Limit the use of heated tools
Use heated hair-styling tools less in your routine. Hair straighteners or curlers are a major contributor to split ends, dry hair and breakage. Try limiting how often you use them. And when you do use it, always spray your hair with a heat protectant before styling, and set it on the low heat level. Bonus tip: Want curly or wavy hair? Why not try some overnight curling methods? They are absolutely natural and heatless!
Stop pulling the “tail”
Did you know, traction alopecia is a condition common among dancers who wear ballerina buns every day? These buns are often painfully tight. This constant tension “suffocates” the hair strands and eventually leads to hair loss. Therefore, don’t wear your ponytail or bun too tightly, and allow your hair to be relaxed and free-flowing.
Sleep on a silk pillowcase
This might not be a well-known solution or an obvious one. Fact is, switching to a silk pillowcase is going to work wonders both for your skin and your hair! Most pillowcases are made from cotton, an absorbent material which strips your hair of moisture overnight (and traps bacteria, eww), thus leading to frizz, dryness and knots. Silk, on the other hand, is a premium-quality fabric that is more hygienic and helps preserve your hair’s health and beauty.