7 Bad Shower Habits That Cause Hair Damage

We all know that high-heat styling is one of the major culprits that lead to damaged hair. But there are a lot of other little under-the-radar mistakes you could be making that harm your hair and scalp. Successful salon owner and founder of RI CI, Ricky Pennisi breaks through the curtain to reveal five shower habits which could be the reason for damaged hair that’s dull, lifeless, frizzy, and prone to breakage.

Here are a few offenders you need to kick to the curb!

1. When it’s cold, you may crave nothing more than a hot shower, but avoid turning up the heat in the shower. Hot water can be very drying and strip away natural skin & hair oils and accelerate the fading process for color treated hair. Always take a lukewarm shower and keep it short (around 10 minutes or less) and remember to not wash your hair daily.

2. Shampooing your hair seems like a simple task but not using a correct one can actually strip your hair’s moisture. Always look for gentle, hydrating shampoos that are free of sulfates and harsh chemicals. Also, think about your natural hair. If you have naturally wavy or curly hair, use a sulfate-free shampoo designed for your hair type. It will also nourish your hair and make your natural waves or curls more manageable to style.

3. When it comes to conditioning, the worst thing you can do is use the conditioner above your crown line. This will lead to grease and unnecessary oil production. Instead, focus on your mid-length to ends first. This is the area that requires the most moisture and attention.

4. When hair is wet, it’s significantly weaker, and brushing it in this vulnerable condition leads to increased breakage. Your strands can’t handle the tugging and tension, so they stretch until they snap. If you forgot to brush before you stepped into the shower, use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle while you have conditioner in your hair.

5.Towel Burrito – just don’t do it. Wrapping your hair tightly with a towel causes the most stress and damage to your hair. Instead, gently squeeze out excess moisture on a dry towel – and pat, don’t rub (rubbing can cause knots).

6. Using heat on wet hair is a big no-no! When your hair is wet, it is extremely delicate and can get damaged easily. Never use heat styling tools (curling iron, straightener) on wet hair and  make sure your hair is completely dry before you reach for your flat iron.

7. No matter you hair type, do not skip deep conditioning. Just like your skin, your hair requires a weekly deep conditioner to help combat the daily damage from heat styling, tape in hair extensions, excessive brushing and even free radicals. Use a hair mask/oil treatment at-home at least once a week.