With so much information (read misinformation) around the internet on hair care, it’s important to do some clearing up. The truth is, many of these common hair myths can cause more harm to your hair, than you could realize. So, for the sake of having the best hair day, everyday, let’s separate the myths from facts.
Common Myths and Facts About Hair
Here are some common myths about hair and facts to debunk them:
Myth: Cutting Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster
- Fact: Cutting your hair does not affect its growth rate. The facts about hair growth state that growth of hair occurs at the scalp, and trimming the ends only removes split ends and prevents breakage, giving the appearance of healthier hair.
Myth: Brushing Your Hair 100 Times a Day Promotes Hair Growth
- Fact: Excessive brushing can actually cause hair breakage and damage. Brushing should be done gently and only as needed to detangle and style your hair. Over brushing can lead to friction, weakening the hair strands.
Myth: Using Shampoo Every Day is Necessary for Clean Hair
- Fact: While it’s important to keep your hair and scalp clean, washing your hair every day may strip away the natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to damage. The frequency of shampooing should be based on your hair type and personal preference.
Myth: Gray Hair is Caused by Stress
- Fact: The graying of hair is primarily determined by genetics and age. While stress may contribute to premature graying in some individuals, it is not the sole cause.
Myth: Dandruff is Caused by a Dry Scalp
- Fact: Dandruff is often caused by a common scalp condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which can result in an oily scalp and flaky skin. Overactive oil glands, yeast overgrowth, and sensitivity to certain products can also contribute to dandruff.
Myth: Plucking One Gray Hair will Cause More to Grow
- Fact: Plucking gray hair will not cause more gray hair to grow in its place. However, it’s best to avoid excessive plucking, as it can damage the hair follicle and potentially lead to hair loss.
Myth: Wearing Hats can Cause Hair Loss
- Fact: Wearing hats does not directly cause hair loss. Facts about hair growth are that, wearing very tight hats or headgear for extended periods may create friction or traction on the hair, leading to breakage or damage. It’s important to choose hats that fit properly and are not overly tight.
Myth: Hair Products can Repair Split Ends
- Fact: Once a hair strand is split, there is no way to repair it fully. Products that claim to repair split ends can temporarily seal them, but the only permanent solution is to trim the ends.
Myth: The More You Shampoo, the Oilier Your Hair Becomes
- Fact: Frequent shampooing does not make your hair produce more oil. In fact, it can help remove excess oil and maintain a balanced scalp environment. However, using harsh shampoos or over washing can strip the natural oils, leading to an overproduction of oil as a result of the scalp compensating.
Myth: Hair can Become Immune to Products Over Time
- Fact: Hair does not develop immunity to hair care products. However, using the same products for an extended period without variation may lead to product buildup, which can affect the effectiveness of the products.
Conclusion
By understanding the difference between hair myths and scientific facts about hair growth, you can make more informed decisions about your hair care routine. Remember – maintaining healthy and beautiful hair requires a balanced approach, including proper cleansing, conditioning, and regular trims. Consult with a professional stylist or dermatologist for personalized advice and recommendations to keep your hair at its best, everyday.
