7 Daily Habits That Are Killing Your Hair

If it seems like no matter how expensive your shampoo is, your hair still looks less than its best, you might want to have a closer look at your haircare routine. Something as simple as using the wrong hairband or wrapping your hair in a towel can harm your tresses and cause some serious damage in the long run. Although these mistakes are easy to make, and may seem innocent at first, they can have long-lasting consequences on your hair.

We at Bright Side are also guilty of some of these mistakes, and we decided to find out what common habits your hair will thank you for quitting.

1. You’re wearing wool.

Wool coats keep you warm in cold weather, but this material can be damaging to your hair. Wool builds up static electricity and makes your hair cling to it, which eventually leads to hair breakage. When your hair gets wet on rainy days, it becomes more fragile and breaks even more easily.

2. You’re eating tuna.

Although tuna is very nutritious and serves as a great source of many trace elements, it also contains high levels of mercury. This toxic heavy metal can cause some serious health issues, and many medical experts recommend eating tuna in moderation. Consuming mercury can also be linked to sudden-onset hair shedding, according to a study.

3. You’re using a towel or a hairdryer to dry your hair.

Most of us are used to wrapping our hair in a towel turban after showering, but cotton towels can make hair frizzy and cause breakage. Because the towel is coarser and drier than the hair, it may cause the cuticle to raise, which in turn can lead to split ends. Using a hairdryer regularly can also contribute to hair brittleness and dullness. To blow-dry your hair correctly, hold your dryer about 6 inches away from your hair.

4. You’re using elastic hair bands.

Tightly pulled hairstyles, such as ponytails and top knots, may cause damage to your hair when it’s tied up. Twists of the elastic band cause pressure on your hair, which, in the long run, can result in breakage. If you like wearing your hair in a ponytail, opt for a rubber band covered with fabric or a spiral hair tie.

5. You’re applying hair conditioner from the roots.

Conditioner is a must for keeping your locks soft and nourished, but it can make your hair look messy when used the wrong way. If you apply it to the roots, it can weigh down your hair and even make your roots look greasy. To keep your hair soft and shiny, apply the conditioner only on your lengths and ends.

6. You’re using dry shampoo too often.

Dry shampoo is the ultimate hair saver, and it makes your mane look fresh when you don’t have time to wash it. But using it too often can make your scalp itchy, dry, and flaky. Unhealthy scalp, in turn, can cause hair loss and prevent new hairs from growing. Because dry shampoo doesn’t actually clean your hair, it can eventually lead to dandruff.

7. You’re putting your sunglasses on your head.

Putting your sunglasses on your head will definitely help you not to lose them, but if you’re doing it regularly, it may eventually cause your hair to thin. The tightness of glasses can decrease blood flow to the scalp and slow down your hair growth. If you’re allergic to the glasses’ metals, it can also lead to thinning hair.

Have you been making any of these mistakes? What else would you add to this list?