Hair care routines have now become a daily part of our lives. For some it’s a 3-step short routine, for others, it may be a 5 or 6-step triweekly regime. Especially with the advent of social media, we are now bombarded with new hair care routines, tips, and product recommendations every now and then. But have you ever wondered if all those hair care tips you hear are actually true?
That’s why our expert hair experts have curated this guide to bust some popular myths. Let’s have a look into some of the most common hair care myths and set the record straight for healthier, happier hair.
Myth #1: Chopping It Off Makes It Grow Faster
This is perhaps the most common myth about hair care we have believed at some point in our lives. Unfortunately, this belief turns out to be a misconception.
Hair growth starts at the root, not the ends. Therefore, trimming your hair regularly (every 6-8 weeks) doesn’t accelerate growth. However, hair trimming is beneficial since it can prevent split ends and breakage. Split ends travel up the hair shaft, leading to breakage and making your hair appear shorter and thinner. Regular trims keep your hair healthy, even if the growth rate remains unchanged.
Myth #2: Daily Shampooing is the Golden Rule for Clean Hair
While maintaining a clean scalp is essential, daily shampooing isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. In fact, it can harm your hair.
While shampoo removes dirt, oil, and styling products, it can also strip your hair of its natural oils. Produced by the scalp, these natural oils are crucial for maintaining hair health and preventing dryness.
If you shampoo daily, it can disrupt this delicate balance in the scalp. Therefore, you may suffer from dryness, irritation, and even an oilier scalp as your body tries to overcompensate for the lost natural oils.
The ideal frequency of shampooing your hair depends on your hair type and lifestyle. While those with fine hair may need to wash daily, thick, coarse hair might only need cleansing every 2-3 days, or even less frequently.
Myth #3: 100 Brushstrokes is the Magical Number for Shine
Remember those neighbourhood aunties suggesting you brush your hair at least 100 times a day for ultimate shine? While brushing can increase blood circulation on your scalp and distribute natural oils from your scalp down the hair shaft, too many strokes can actually damage your hair. Excessive brushing can cause breakage, especially if you’re using a harsh brush or detangling wet hair.
Instead, focus on gentle detangling with a wide-tooth comb, wooden comb, or a soft-bristled brush. Start at the ends and work your way up to the roots to minimise breakage.
Myth #4: Natural Ingredients Works Best for Hair
Natural ingredients like rosemary oil, argan oil, amla, sikakai, etc., have gained immense popularity in hair care, and that too for good reasons. But are they the ultimate solution for every hair type? Well, not necessarily.
While natural ingredients are definitely good for your hair health, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some natural ingredients might not penetrate the hair shaft deeply enough to provide the required nutrients. On the other hand, others might weigh down fine hair or leave a greasy residue.
Besides, some individuals may have sensitivities to certain natural ingredients. Therefore, the key is to choose products based on your specific hair type and needs. Consult hair care doctors to get personalised recommendations or scientifically formulated ingredients, which can be highly effective.
Myth #5: Cold Water Rinses Can Bring Unmatched Shine!
The logical explanation behind this myth is that cold water closes the hair cuticle, resulting in shinier hair. Hair cuticles are the outermost layer of the hair shaft. Although they have an impact on shine, they don’t actually open and close like doors.
A cold water rinse can temporarily smoothen the hair cuticle, creating a more reflective surface and a slight increase in shine. However, this effect is temporary and won’t repair damaged hair.
For long-lasting shine, consult a hair care specialist and use a leave-in conditioner or hair mask that contains ingredients like keratin or silicones. These ingredients coat the hair shaft and reduce frizz for long-lasting shine.
Myth #6: It’s Okay to Skip Conditioner Sometimes
Conditioner is an essential part of a healthy hair care routine. While shampoo removes dirt, oil, and styling products, it can also strip away natural moisture from your hair. Conditioner replenishes this moisture, keeping your hair soft, manageable, and less prone to frizz.
Besides, conditioners also coat the hair shaft, protecting it from environmental damage and heat styling. Skipping conditioner can leave your hair dry, brittle, and difficult to manage.
Myth #7: Dandruff? Blame the Dry Scalp!
For most of us, dandruff is equal to a dry scalp. While dryness can cause dandruff flare-ups, it’s not always the reason.
Dandruff can also be caused by an overgrowth of a fungus called Malassezia on the scalp. This fungus feeds on the natural oils produced by the scalp and causes flakiness and irritation.
If you have dandruff, consider using an anti-dandruff shampoo that contains ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, or salicylic acid. These ingredients reduce the impact of fungus and alleviate dandruff symptoms. Consult a hair care doctor for personalised recommendations.
Myth #8: Plucking Greys Hair Means More Grey Hair
If you are somewhere around your late 20s, you may have already fallen for this myth!
Greying hair is a natural part of the ageing process. It happens when the production of melanin, a pigment responsible for hair colour decreases in the hair follicles. So, when we pluck one grey hair, there’s no possibility of seeing a sprouting growth of grey hair in the same place.
While plucking grey hair won’t create more greys, it can damage the surrounding hair follicles. Plucking puts stress on the scalp and can weaken the follicle, potentially leading to breakage or even permanent hair loss.
So, if you’re concerned about grey hair, there are several alternative options available. Consult a hair care specialist to know more!
Myth #9: Switching Products at Regular Intervals is Necessary
Although finding the right hair care routine is crucial for healthy hair, constantly switching products is not a great idea. Give your products enough time to work their part. It can take several weeks or even months to understand the effects of a new shampoo or conditioner.
Our expert hair specialists suggest clients stick with the products that work for their hair type and scalp concerns unless they experience a significant change.
Customise Your Own Hair Care Routine
Everyone’s hair is unique. What works wonders for your friend might not be the best fit for you. The key to healthy hair is a routine tailored to your specific needs and hair type. Here are some additional tips from the best hair care doctors in Surat:
Know your hair type: Is your hair fine, thick, curly, straight, oily, dry, or colour-treated? Understand your hair type first to choose the right products and styling techniques.
Focus on gentle cleansing: Use a shampoo formulated for your hair type and avoid harsh sulfates that can strip your hair of natural oils.
Deep condition regularly: Deep conditioning treatments provide extra moisture and nourishment, especially for dry or damaged hair. Get deep conditioning treatment once a week or bi-weekly to lock the moisture in your hair.
Follow healthy habits: Diet, stress levels, and your overall health condition can impact your hair. Eat a nutrient-rich balanced diet, manage stress, and get enough to have happy, healthy hair.
Protect your hair from damage: Limit heat styling, use heat protectant sprays when styling, and protect your hair from the sun with a hat or UV protectant spray.
Looking for Hair Treatment in Surat, Gujarat?
Taking care of your hair requires professional help to address specific concerns. If you’re based in Surat, Gujarat, and seeking the best hair treatment from top doctors, contact Celebre Aesthetics!
Celebre Aesthetics is a leading cosmetic clinic in Surat, offering a comprehensive range of advanced hair care treatments. Their team of experienced and qualified dermatologists and trichologists (hair specialists) utilizes cutting-edge techniques to diagnose and treat different hair concerns.
At Celebre Aesthetics, our experts understand your specific concerns and hair goals to develop a personalised treatment plan. We offer a wide range of hair treatment options, including hair PRP therapy, Mesotherapy, Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), and hair transplant in a state-of-the-art facility.
Contact us today to schedule your appointment with our experts!
