We all want beautiful, healthy hair. But sometimes, without even realizing it, we develop haircare habits that do more harm than good. From the way we wash our hair to how we style it every morning, little routines can seriously damage hair over time. The good news? You can hit the reset button on those habits and start nourishing your hair the right way.
Here are some common everyday mistakes that could be damaging your hair and what to do instead for better hair frizz control, improved hair growth, and stronger strands.
1. Scrubbing Too Hard While Shampooing
You might think giving your scalp a good, vigorous scrub is the best way to get clean, but that’s a big no-no. Harsh rubbing can weaken your strands, especially when wet, and cause breakage and frizz. Plus, aggressive shampooing can irritate your scalp and lead to damaged hair over time.
What to do instead: Gently massage your hair shampoo into your scalp with your fingertips. Let the suds work their way down your hair naturally. This helps cleanse your roots without damaging the shaft or causing unnecessary friction.
2. Using Hot Water for Hair Washing
Yes, we love steamy showers too but your hair doesn’t. Hot water can strip your scalp of natural oils, leaving it dry and vulnerable. This leads to frizz, breakage, and can even accelerate thinning hair.
The fix: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead. Rinse with cool water after applying hair conditioner to seal your cuticles, lock in moisture, and boost shine. Bonus: it helps with hair frizz control!
3. Skipping the Conditioner
If you’re in a rush, you might think conditioner isn’t essential. But that’s another bad habit that can harm your hair. Conditioner helps smooth the cuticle, reduces tangles, and keeps your hair hydrated.
Better habit: Never skip your hair conditioner. Use it after every wash, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This is especially important for curly hair, which naturally needs more moisture.
4. Using the Wrong Hair Products
Using whatever shampoo is on sale or that one bottle your friend left at your place? Not all products are made for your hair type. Products with sulfates, parabens, or alcohol can dry out your hair, cause frizz, and even damage hair over time.
Upgrade your routine: Pick products that nourish your hair. Use a sulfate-free hair shampoo and choose a conditioner that suits your hair type. Add a leave in cream or hair serum for extra protection and shine. If you’re managing thinning hair, look for lightweight products that promote hair growth without weighing your hair down.
5. Towel-Drying
Rubbing your hair dry with a towel might feel effective, but it causes serious friction, which leads to breakage and you guessed it frizz.
Gentle drying tip: Pat your hair dry with a soft towel or wrap it in a microfiber towel. Better yet, try the old T-shirt trick! It’s gentler on your strands and helps maintain smoothness.
6. Brushing Wet Hair Aggressively
Wet hair is at its weakest, and brushing it like you’re racing a clock is one way to break it off in chunks. This habit is especially damaging if you have curly hair or chemically treated strands.
What to do: Use a wide-tooth comb and gently detangle from the ends up while your hair is still damp. You can even apply a bit of leave in cream or hair oil to help reduce friction and make combing easier.
7. Overusing Heat Tools
Flat irons, curling wands, and blow dryers we love the styles they create but hate the damage they leave behind. High heat weakens the protein structure of your hair and dries it out.
Smarter styling: Cut back on heat styling to 1–2 times a week. When you do reach for those tools, always use a heat protectant first. It forms a barrier that shields your strands from direct damage. You can also try air drying or heatless curls for a change.
8. Sleeping with Wet Hair
You may be tired, but don’t sleep on this mistake. Literally. Wet hair is more vulnerable to friction from your pillow, and sleeping on it can lead to breakage and even scalp irritation.
Nighttime tips: Let your hair dry before bed or use a blow-dryer on a low/cool setting. Sleep on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction, or tie your hair in a loose braid to minimize damage.
9. Tight Hairstyles All the Time
Those high ponytails and slick buns might look fierce, but they can stress out your scalp and cause traction alopecia especially when worn daily.
Loosen up: Choose softer, looser styles and use fabric-covered hair ties. Change up your hairstyles regularly and avoid styles that pull on the same spot every time.
10. Ignoring Deep Conditioning
If your hair feels brittle or looks dull, it might be crying out for extra nourishment. Daily conditioner isn’t always enough.
Show your hair some love: Use a hair mask once a week to deeply nourish and repair damaged hair. Look for masks with ingredients like shea butter, keratin, or argan oil for a hydration boost. Don’t forget to seal it in with a few drops of hair oil or a hair serum for extra shine.
Final Thoughts: Your Hair Deserves Better
Healthy hair doesn’t happen overnight, but the journey starts with being kind to your strands. Swap out damaging habits for better ones, choose the right products, and be consistent. Whether you’re taming curly hair, dealing with thinning hair, or just trying to nourish what you’ve got, your best hair days are ahead. And remember a little leave in cream and a lot of love go a long way!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best way to stop hair frizz after washing?
Frizz often comes from dryness and friction. To control hair frizz, avoid rubbing your hair with a towel instead, pat it dry with a microfiber towel or T-shirt. Always use a hair conditioner after shampooing, and follow up with a leave in cream or hair serum to lock in moisture and keep strands smooth.
2. How often should I use a hair mask for damaged hair?
If you’re dealing with damaged hair, especially from heat styling or coloring, use a deep hair mask once a week. Look for masks rich in shea butter, keratin, or argan oil to nourish and restore moisture. Consistent use can strengthen your hair and reduce breakage.
3. Can skipping conditioner cause thinning hair?
Yes regularly skipping conditioner can lead to dryness, breakage, and eventually thinner-looking hair. Conditioner helps hydrate, protect, and reduce stress on the strands. For thinning hair, opt for lightweight formulas that promote hair growth without weighing hair down.
4. Is it okay to brush wet hair?
Brushing wet hair aggressively can cause major breakage, especially for curly hair or chemically treated strands. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb while your hair is damp, and apply a nourishing leave in cream or hair oil first to reduce friction and make detangling easier.
5. How can I protect my hair from heat damage during styling?
Before using a blow dryer, flat iron, or curling wand, always apply a heat protectant to shield your strands. Limit heat styling to once or twice a week, and try air-drying when possible. Using a hair serum after styling can also help repair and smooth any signs of damage.
