Since going natural in 2007, I quickly learned that I had some pretty bad hair habits! I didn’t have an official hair regimen established and without a clear idea and plan for my hair I was legit just going with the flow and my hair was like “Girl, no!”
I’m proud to say that over the past nine years, I’ve gotten better with being more intentional about how I care for my hair to keep it healthy and growing. Some habits are hard to kick, but it doesn’t have to be that way, especially when it comes to caring for your hair.
Avoid these bad hair habits to keep your hair healthy and strong!
Bad Hair Habit #1: Using too much heat
I know… I know… you probably read about heat damage in every article that talks about things that damage your hair, but using chemicals like relaxers (that can burn your scalp) and turning your hot tools on high temperatures can really alter the integrity of your hair. I know this all-too-well. A few years ago, I got extensions and left some of my naturally curly hair out to blend with the straight texture of the weave. I flat ironed my hair on a very high temperature and ended up permanently straightening my hair. It took years for me to grow out my hair and get my natural curl pattern back.
If your breakage is severe, consult with a professional stylist for a treatment and trim. A great way to avoid a situation like mine is to limit the amount of heat that you put on your hair by starting with a low temperature and then working your way up instead of automatically going up to 400+ degrees. Your hair starts burning at 450 degrees, so don’t even turn your tool up that high! Always use a heat protectant spray when you add heat to your hair. Deep conditioning your hair and at-home protein treatments will help too!
Bad Hair Habit #2: Not eating a healthy, balanced diet
What you put inside of your body will absolutely show on the outside, especially when it comes to your hair. Be sure to hydrate your body from the inside out by drinking at least 8 cups of water daily. It doesn’t have to stop there; simply wetting your hair with water can help with fighting dryness and breakage.
In addition to being conscious of your water intake, it’s important to nourish yourself by eating nutritious foods! Certain foods have amazing benefits for your hair. Some foods to keep on your radar are foods that contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids like salmon to help with shine; Greek yogurt is packed with Vitamin B5 which actually helps with blood flow to the scalp which aids in growth. Other foods to consider are eggs, guava, sweet potatoes and spinach.
Bad Hair Habit #3: Not cleansing hair enough
While I’m a huge fan of cleansing my hair with conditioner or co-washing, I also know how important it is to cleanse my hair with shampoo. Our hair produces natural oil called sebum so not cleansing hair enough could lead to unhealthy buildup and washing it too much could cause dryness and breakage. You absolutely want some oil to remain in your hair because they provide a barrier of protection. Depending on your hair’s texture and your lifestyle, you might want to consider washing your hair 1-3 times per week using a sulfate-free shampoo. You can also add moisture to your with an oil rinse during your next wash. Try this technique with these natural oils.
Bad Hair Habit #4: Hairstyles that are too tight
When I think of painfully tight hairstyles, two words come to mind: traction alopecia. This condition is a form of gradual hair loss that’s primarily caused by pulling on the hair that usually occurs around the temple and near the ears. Frequently wearing styles like tight ponytails and braids can cause this condition. It can also result in acne or sores to the scalp, and that’s just not a good look. Let go and let flow, when it comes to your hair. If you walk around with a headache for days after getting your hair done or notice thinning around your hairline, you might want to chill with getting styles that pull and tug on your hair.
Bad Hair Habit #5: Avoiding trims
I used to be one of those people who cringed at the thought of getting my hair trimmed until I realized that I wasn’t retaining length because my ends were a hot mess. Split ends are not what’s up, y’all! So, don’t shy away from getting rid of ½-1/2 inch of dead hair every 4-8 weeks. You might have to take off a bit more depending on the amount of breakage you’re experiencing. The growth of your hair will be stunted by split ends, so look at the bigger picture of having amazingly healthy hair and start snipping!
What bad hair habits are you letting go to ensure your hair looks and feels its best?
Ciao Bellas,
