We may be dedicating more time than ever to some bits of our beauty routine – hello, 10-step Korean skincare routine – but we’re definitely neglecting others. We get it – washing, blow-drying and styling your hair feels pretty pointless when the only people who’ll see it are your flatmates (and they’ve seen you in far worse states). And anyway, you’re not doing your hair any damage, right? Well, it turns out, you might be. Here’s how to take care of your hair (without sacrificing any Netflix-time).
By Beth Ludolf
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1 Brush it every day, twice a day
Brushing your hair isn’t just about looking presentable – it improves circulation (bringing nutrients to your hair) and helps to remove product build-up, dirt and dry skin. Knots are a fast-track to breakage, especially when the hair is brushed from root to tip. Instead, brush downwards starting near the ends – only move your brush higher when that section is fully detangled.
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2 Don't go to bed with wet hair
Drying your hair is sometimes just too much effort (we’re all guilty of it) but we promise its worth it. As you move around in bed, the friction between your head and pillowcase can cause breakage – and wet hair is far more prone to snapping. The combination of water and warmth also makes your pillow the perfect breeding ground for bacteria *shudders*. Plus, I always regret it when I wake up with an 80s-style bouffant, don’t you?
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3 Be careful tying it up
While tying up your hair in the same place every day – bun on-top-of-the-head, always – can cause stress to the hair where it’s tied, tight ponytails pull hair at the root. If you’re wearing your it up every day, you should change up the position, stick to looser styles and switch out your bobble for a silk scrunchie – this will minimise the friction. Spraying some leave-in conditioner on a hair tie works too.
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4 Take a break from heat-styling
Yes, you may be a little frizzier than usual for your Zoom meeting but giving your hair a break from heat styling is an easy way to be kinder to your hair (and you get to stay in bed longer). Heat-styling breaks down the hydrogen bonds in your hair, leaving it dry and susceptible to breakage. Give no-heat curls a go in the meantime.
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5 Add a treatment
Masks are a blessing. They’re relaxing and good for you (I wish the same could be said about wine). They help to rehydrate, restore protein and prevent damage. All out of your favourite mask? Don’t worry. Mix together a teaspoon of honey, 1 egg and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar – apply to your hair and rinse after half an hour for a fix of nourishment.
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FAQs
How often should you brush your hair for the best results?
You should brush your hair twice a day to keep it healthy. Regular brushing improves circulation, brings nutrients to your hair and helps remove product build-up, dirt and dry skin. Always start brushing near the ends to gently detangle and reduce breakage.
Why should you avoid going to bed with wet hair?
Going to bed with wet hair makes it more prone to breakage and leads to unwanted bacteria on your pillow. The combination of water, warmth and friction while sleeping can cause your hair to snap and can result in frizzy, unmanageable styles by morning.
How can you prevent damage when tying your hair up?
To prevent damage, change your hair-up position, use looser styles and switch to a silk scrunchie. Tight ponytails and wearing your hair tied up in the same spot daily can cause stress and breakage at the roots. Spraying leave-in conditioner on your hair tie can also minimise friction.
Why is it good to take a break from heat-styling tools?
Taking a break from heat-styling allows your hair to recover and keeps it healthier. Heat breaks down the hydrogen bonds in your hair, which can leave it dry and more likely to break. Embracing your natural texture or trying no-heat styles can help maintain hair strength.
What quick at-home hair treatment can you use if you run out of masks?
You can mix 1 teaspoon of honey, 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar as an emergency nourishing hair treatment. Apply the mixture to your hair and rinse after half an hour to help rehydrate, restore protein and prevent damage.