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8 Common Hair Care Mistakes That Are Ruining Your Hair (And How to Fix Them)
May
We all want healthy, shiny hair—but sometimes, our everyday habits are working against us. From overwashing to using the wrong brush, even small mistakes can lead to major hair damage over time.
In this article, we’ll uncover the most common hair care mistakes people make and show you how to fix them with science-backed solutions.
Washing Your Hair Too Often
The mistake: Shampooing every day strips your scalp of natural oils, causing dryness, frizz, or even oil overproduction as a rebound.
The fix: Wash your hair 2–3 times a week. Use dry shampoo in between. Look for sulfate-free shampoos that are gentle on the scalp.
Recommended: Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal Shampoo
Using Conditioner Incorrectly
The mistake: Applying conditioner to the scalp instead of the mid-lengths and ends.
The fix: Focus conditioner on the lower 2/3 of your hair where damage is more common. Leave it in for 2–5 minutes before rinsing.
Learn more: Allure – How to Use Conditioner Properly
Brushing Wet Hair Aggressively
The mistake: Wet hair is fragile—brushing it can lead to breakage and split ends.
The fix: Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush. Always start detangling from the tips and work your way up.
Recommended: The Wet Brush Original Detangler
Skipping Heat Protection
The mistake: Styling with heat tools like straighteners or curlers without heat protectant can severely damage your hair.
The fix: Use a heat protectant spray every time you blow-dry, curl, or straighten your hair—even at low temperatures.
Product to try: CHI 44 Iron Guard Thermal Protection Spray
Sleeping with Wet Hair
The mistake: Going to bed with wet hair can lead to breakage due to friction with pillowcases.
The fix: Always dry your hair before bed. If air-drying, ensure it’s at least 80% dry. Use a satin or silk pillowcase for less friction.
🛌 See why silk helps: Good Housekeeping – Benefits of Silk Pillowcases
Using the Wrong Hair Products
The mistake: Choosing products based on trends instead of hair type and needs.
The fix: Understand your hair type (straight, curly, oily, dry, color-treated) and pick targeted products. Always check labels.
🧠 Learn how to choose wisely: Harper’s Bazaar – Hair Product Guide
Overusing Dry Shampoo
The mistake: Relying too heavily on dry shampoo can cause scalp buildup and block follicles.
The fix: Use dry shampoo only once or twice between washes. Always wash your hair thoroughly afterward.
Tip: Massage your scalp regularly to stimulate circulation and remove buildup naturally.
Ignoring Regular Trims
The mistake: Trying to grow hair without trimming it leads to more split ends and breakage.
The fix: Get a trim every 6–8 weeks to keep ends healthy and prevent splits from traveling up the hair shaft.
Pro tip: You don’t have to lose much—just a dusting can make a big difference.
Bonus Tip: Listen to Your Hair
Your hair will show signs when something’s wrong: excessive shedding, dryness, dullness, or itchy scalp. These are signals to adjust your routine.
Start small: change one habit, one product, or one tool. Your hair will respond when treated right.
Science-Backed Sources for Better Hair Health:
By avoiding these common mistakes and building better habits, you’ll see long-term improvements in texture, strength, and overall appearance. Great hair doesn’t come from one miracle product—it comes from consistency and care.
