In the quest for luscious locks, it’s easy to fall prey to the abundance of haircare myths that abound. From old wives’ tales passed down through generations to well-meaning advice from friends and family, separating fact from fiction can be daunting.

Cutting Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster

It’s a widely held belief that frequent trims promote hair growth by stimulating the follicles. However, the rate at which your hair grows is determined by genetics, hormones, and overall health, not by how often you trim it. While regular trims are essential for maintaining healthy ends and preventing split ends from traveling up the hair shaft, they won’t make your hair grow faster. Instead, focus on practices that support overall hair health, such as eating a balanced diet, minimizing heat styling, and using gentle, nourishing haircare products.

Brushing Your Hair 100 Strokes a Day Makes It Healthier

Brushing your hair 100 strokes daily to promote shine and vitality has been perpetuated for generations. However, excessive brushing can do more harm than good, especially if done with the wrong type of brush or with too much force. Over-brushing can lead to breakage, friction, and damage to the hair cuticle, resulting in dull, weakened locks. Instead of focusing on quantity, prioritize quality when brushing your hair. Use a gentle brush or wide-tooth comb to detangle hair without causing unnecessary stress, and limit brushing to when necessary, such as before washing or styling.

Washing Your Hair Every Day Is Necessary for Cleanliness

While keeping your scalp and hair clean is important, washing your hair daily can strip away natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and overproduction of oil. The frequency of washing should be tailored to your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preference. For most people, washing hair 2-3 times a week is sufficient to maintain cleanliness and scalp health. If you have oily hair or engage in activities that lead to excess sweat and buildup, you may need to wash more frequently, but be mindful not to overdo it. When cleaning, use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and focus on cleansing the scalp while allowing the suds to rinse through the lengths of your hair.