The hairstyling world is filled with opinions, tips, and "hacks". However, not all of them are backed by facts or proven to work. Whether you're a beginner hairstylist or simply someone looking to take better care of your hair, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. In this article, we’re going to debunk some of the most common hairstyling myths that you might have heard, so you can avoid common mistakes and make better choices for your hair.
Myth #1: Cutting Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster
Many people believe that cutting their hair regularly will make it grow faster. Hair growth happens at the scalp level, not at the ends, so cutting it does not affect the speed it grows. However, regular trims are required to prevent split ends. If left untreated, split ends will continue to break off, so the hair doesn't end up getting longer.
The Truth: The rate of hair growth is largely determined by factors like genetics, diet, hormones, and overall health. To promote hair growth, focus on maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins, like vitamin D, biotin, and omega-3 fatty acids, as well as minimizing stress and getting enough sleep. If you're growing your hair out, you only need to cut it when your ends are feeling brittle.
Myth #2: You Should Shampoo Your Hair Once a Week
There's a lot of talk about how often you should be shampooing your hair. Every day? Once a week? Washing your hair once a week simply will not work for all hair types, and your hair cannot be "trained" otherwise. Oil production starts inside the hair follicle and is determined by factors like genetics and age, not by your washing routine. Overwashing can cause a dry, irritated scalp and be damaging to bleached hair, but not washing your hair enough and overusing dry shampoos can block the hair follicle.
The Truth: How often you should shampoo depends on your hair type and lifestyle. If you have dry or curly hair, you might only need to shampoo once or twice a week. For oily or fine hair, you may need to shampoo more frequently. Make sure the shampoos you use are suitable for your hair type as well; a shampoo that's too harsh will be drying, and one that's too rich/moisturizing will weigh the hair down and make it feel greasy. Always listen to your scalp and adjust your washing routine accordingly.
Myth #3: Natural Haircare Products Are Always Better
It’s easy to assume that natural or organic haircare products are always superior because they lack harsh chemicals. While natural ingredients can certainly be gentler, it doesn’t automatically mean they are the best option for your specific hair needs. This is often used as a marketing gimmick.
The Truth: The effectiveness of haircare products depends on your individual hair type and concerns. Some people might find that natural ingredients like aloe vera or argan oil work wonders, while others may require more specialized formulas with active ingredients that tackle specific issues, such as dandruff, bleach damage, or hair loss. Always choose products based on your hair’s unique needs.
