10 hair care myths you need to stop believing
We’ve heard them all, strange but said to be true hair care solutions to make hair longer, thicker, and shinier. But with so many tools, products, and online tutorials out there, it’s time to separate hair myths from hair facts.

If you find yourself face-palming for falling for some of the hair myths below, don’t worry, you’re not alone. Who hasn’t cut their hair in hopes of sparking healthier growth? The fact is, so many of these so-called hair solutions have been around so long, passed down through generations of women, they’ve essentially become a game of hair care broken telephone.

To help you achieve your best, healthiest hair ever, we’ve uncovered and debunked the 10 most common hair care myths below with a few tips and tricks on what actually works.

Myth #1: Cutting your hair more often makes it grow faster

Probably the biggest hair myth out there, debunked simply by looking at the science of hair. Hair grows from the follicles found in the scalp, therefore cutting hair strands has nothing to do with the root from which they grow. Hair follicles are also linked to genetics and while there have been some tests and studies around products and solutions said to help grow or improve follicle count, cutting or trimming the hair often does nothing for hair growth. When looking for a simple, stylish way to add length, consider hair extensions, as this also allows you to play with your look by adding length when you want it.

Myth #2: You should brush your hair 100 times per day

Honestly, who has time for this? The belief behind this theory is true: Brushing your hair helps distribute its natural oils. However, 100 strokes is excessive and unnecessary. In fact, brushing your hair too often, with too much force or with a poorly-designed hairbrush can cause breakage, cuticle damage, and can also make your hair look and feel frizzy.

Brush your hair enough to smooth out tangles and knots; when a brush can go through seamlessly, you’ve likely hit the right amount of strokes for your mane. Brushing your hair helps to distribute natural oils from root to scalp giving your hair a natural shine, it can also help stimulate the scalp, but be sure to use a brush with soft bristles, or a wide tooth comb. Some experts also recommend brushing the hair when wet in the shower for smoother, frizz-free hair.

Myth #3: Wash with cold water for ultimate shine

While in skincare, a splash or rinse with cold water is said to help close the pores after a treatment, the science doesn’t exactly work the same way with hair. There’s no solid proof that washing your hair with cold water actually makes a difference than washing with warm, or even hot water. Experts, however, do recommend aiming the showerhead or spray of water away from the scalp and more towards the mid-shaft of the hair. Especially when conditioning, this preserves more of the product in the hair and scalp and saves the scalp from harsh pressure.  No more hopping around in discomfort or cutting your cold shower short for the sake of shine.

Myth #4: Wash your hair every day because the more product the better

While most women now know a full wash and conditioner really isn’t necessary, some still pile on the product when it is wash day. A full shampoo and conditioner should be done 2-3 times a week, depending of course on your hair type or lifestyle. This is enough to clean the hair and nourish the scalp. However, when it’s hair wash day, don’t go crazy with the product. Wash, lather, rinse, and repeat may actually cause damage, breakage, and depending on the product may harm or dehydrate the scalp. A dollop of shampoo and conditioner is usually enough for most people and repeating the process doesn’t necessarily bring about better hair. Ensure you thoroughly rinse and massage the scalp during the wash as this does, in fact, help stimulate the follicles.

Myth #5: Dry shampoo is just as good as regular shampoo

Yes, we just said don’t wash your hair every day. And yes, dry shampoo is a savior in a pinch between wash days – but it is in no way a replacement for regular water, shampoo and conditioner. Dry shampoo simply soaks up excess oil and grease from the hair and some products even add a nice scent, but that’s all it does. We’re all looking to save some time, but don’t cut corners when it comes to washing your hair, make it part of your self-care routine.

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