5 Hair Myths You Should Stop Worrying About
Filmmaker Robert Evans once said, “There are three sides to every story: your side, my side, and the truth. And no one is lying…” We’re currently in the age of information overload for every topic imaginable, including (and especially) hair. Suffice it to say, a lot of personal experiences have created rumours about topics like dyeing your hair while pregnant and what actually makes strands grow longer and stronger.
And while there are certainly exceptions to every rule, and science is constantly unveiling more and more information, it’s time to question a few of these factoids. After all, what works for you may not work for me, and vice versa.
We tapped the pros to properly evaluate five of the most rampant hair rumours ahead.
Myth: You Need A Blow Dryer To Get Smooth Hair
For many, indulging in a blowout never gets old, but what if you could get a similar result — bouncy, smooth hair — with less work? Turns out, you can.
“Try sculpting your hair into place with a soft mousse or a leave-in conditioner,” stylist Rebekah Forecast says. “Allow the hair to dry naturally, and then brush it out. This will retains the natural body, while smoothing the cuticle. I love the look and feel of naturally-dried hair.”
Tip: This will take a little trial and error, but keep hunting until you find that perfect product and technique. Remeber, “sculpting” can also mean a loose bun or plait.
Myth: It’s Unsafe To Colour Your Hair While Pregnant
When you’re expecting, you don’t have to prep for a nine-month waiting period for a root touch up. “Most research indicates the chemicals found in both semi-permanent and permanent dyes are not highly toxic and are safe to use during pregnancy,” the American Pregnancy Association says. “In addition, only small amounts of hair dye may be absorbed by the skin, leaving little that would be able to reach the foetus.” If you’re still unsure, consult your doctor before booking an appointment and choose techniques like ombré, which limit scalp and colour contact.
Myth: Cutting Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster
According to stylist Clariss Rubenstein, this one makes zero sense. “What you cut from the bottom of your hair has no effect on the rate that it grows out of your head,” she said. “When your hair is dry, damaged, and split at the ends, it actually breaks off. So your hair is still growing, it’s just breaking off at the same time, and you’re not seeing any length change. If you trim your hair just to get then ends off — taking off just enough that it doesn’t break — you will see your hair grow longer.”
The moral of the story? Get those trims regularly to avoid breakage, and focus on the health of your hair with good products, but don’t expect a surge after a cut.
Myth: Dirty Hair Makes Styling Easier
People with all kind of textures, especially curly and kinky, prefer second or third (or fourth, or fifth…) day hair. A lived-in, voluminous look can’t always be achieved with squeaky-clean hair, especially when you’ve already got lots of product worked into your ‘do. That same product buildup can either make or break your style, according to stylist Michael Sparks.
Plaits and buns are styles that benefit from hair that’s a little dirty, but anything smooth or sleek? Not so much. “It’s always good to start with fresh hair when you straighten, so you can build it over time,” he says.
Myth: Textured Hair Requires High Heat For Lasting Styles
Thick hair can be tough to straighten or dry with one pass, this we know, but that’s no excuse to crank your iron up to 450, stylist Randi Petersen says. “This is a no no. If you have fine hair you can use your tools on a lower setting. If you have wavy hair, try medium heat. And if you have curly, thick hair, turn it up just a little higher. This will prevent your hair from burning and becoming frayed and frazzled.”
Originally published at https://www.refinery29.com.
