Truth or hair... myth? We comb through the popular mane misconceptions for you.
Published: Thu 4 Feb 2016, 11:00 PM
Last updated: Fri 12 Feb 2016, 9:36 AM
Our tresses often make up the most important part our daily grooming routine, but mostly, the 'common knowledge' that surrounds mane maintenance is a matter of conjecture than any rooted fact.
We look at the most common assumptions surrounding our crowning glory, and part the myths from the facts.
It is important to change my hair care brand often. Truth/Myth?
Myth! Hair does not get 'used' to any hair care products, in the sense that these products are then less effective and need to be changed. On the contrary, always stick to the same products once you have found the ones that work for your hair!
It is bad to wash hair frequently. Truth/Myth?
Tip: Always use a good quality shampoo. Don't rub your hair vigorously; treat it as gently as you would your favourite silk scarf. Use warm, not hot water, to prevent scalp irritation.
Rinsing with cold water helps make hair shine. Truth/Myth?
Not so. Some people think hair has pores which close when they come in contact with cold water, a bit like with skin. However, this is not correct. If you want shiny hair, use a conditioner or treatment, and blow dry with a large round brush to maximise hair alignment.
It's good to add conditioner to your hair washing routine. Truth/Myth?
Tip: To reap the benefits, avoid brushing wet hair after conditioning, unless you have the right leave-on protection.
Cutting hair will help it grow faster/thicker. Truth/Myth?
This is a myth which may have something to do with the fact that hair, when it is newly cut, tends to look healthier and well shaped than hair that has no shape and/or a lot of split ends. But cutting hair will not make it grow faster or thicker, as hair has a biologically determined growth rate and overall texture. Therefore, how fast and thick your hair grows is determined by your genes - there is not much you can do to change this. Regular trimming does remove split ends and keeps the tips of your hair in optimum condition, so your hair will probably look and feel thicker and healthier.
Stress is the main reason hair falls out. Truth/Myth?
Another myth! There are several potential reasons for hair loss, ranging from genetic, hormonal changes, specific infections of the skin, or even the medication you use. Whilst stress can have a contributory effect on the quality of hair fibres and the scalp condition, it is not usually a main factor in hair loss.
Brushing frequently is bad for your hair. Truth/Myth?
There is a bit of truth to this. Brushing freq-uently can be bad for your hair if done too vigorously, when hair is still wet, or if done with metal combs or brushes with sharp edges. Invest in a good hairbrush and always untangle your hair before brushing through gently.
It is bad to brush hair when wet. Truth/Myth?
Absolutely. Wet hair is at its weakest when it is wet, and highly vulnerable to damage and breakage. Wet hair takes up water and swells, and in this state it is very soft and more fragile. Brushes can have sharp edges, which are likely to hit a snag and pull hair to a breaking point. The best way to detangle hair after you shampoo and condition it is by using your fingers or a wide-toothed comb or pick. Try to avoid using a hairbrush until your hair is almost dry. If you use a hairbrush to blow-dry your wet hair, use a good quality vented brush that has the fewest teeth possible.
Hair fall is normal. Truth/Myth?
Losing some hair is normal - we shed 50-100 hair fibres every day as part of the natural growth cycle. However, hair fibres are also susceptible to damage and breakage. This is NOT normal, and can be avoided by taking precautionary measures. Damaged hair loses proteins at a faster rate, making it brittle and prone to breakage.
Sun damages hair. Truth/Myth?
Fact. UV rays can cause hair to lose protein, which leads to dry, dull hair that is prone to breakage. Try to wear a hat or scar if you're going to be in the sun.
- Inputs by Dr. Jeni Thomas, Principal Scientist, P&G Beauty
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