5 Truths and Myths about Hair Care

5 popular hair care myths about making hair grow faster or how many times should we wash our hair.

Think brushing your hair at least 100 times make your hair shiny and healthy? Will frequent trims really make your hair grow faster? Let's see some popular beliefs about hair care.

1. Frequent hair washing leads to hair loss

FALSE. This idea is one of the most popular myths. Many are scared away of washing their hair daily. It's true, professionals advise you to wash your hair mostly 3 times a week, however the emphasize is not on frequency but quality. If you use products specially designed for your hair type and this purpose, you can add volume to your hair. Besides if your hair is oily, you must remove excessive grease to protect your scalp. On the other hand people with dry hair, should properly condition it with a nourishing mask.

2. Every day brush your hair as often as possible (about 100 strokes)

FALSE. In fact excessive brushing can lead to weakening your hair. Some think that by combing it 100 times, their hair will shine and be healthier than ever. It's a fact that this method can stimulate hair growth, as massaging your scalp, however by pulling your strands you'll only make it more fragile. Brush your hair when you style it and forget about 100 strokes.

3. Tight ponytails, braids and buns can lead to baldness

TRUE. It might seem surprising but there is in fact a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. This loss is caused by wearing your hair in tight ponytails and braids over a longer period. This can be avoided if you let your hair breath, loose - the tightness causes breakage right from the roots. It is most common among African American women and children who tend to wear their hair in similar buns and cornrows.

4. If you often have your hair trimmed it grows faster

TRUE. However remember, it will grow BETTER and not FASTER. By frequent trimming you can eliminate split ends however your hair growth will be influenced by season and other factors. With regular trims your hair will be in a better condition and it will look more healthier and thicker if you get rid of split ends. For a faster hair growth try a diet rich in proteins.

5. Change your shampoo frequently

FALSE. We've heard this idea many times, however the truth is that it wasn't proved by any experiment. Why change a product that works for you. If you experience that a certain shampoo doesn't work for you, it is recommended to switch it for another one. Our hair can't get used to a product so much that it will lose its effectiveness. However it can build up residue on hair, which can be eliminated by using a clarifying shampoo once in a while.