Air Drying Superior?
The first popular belief is that air drying is always the best and healthiest choice for your hair. The reality is more nuanced. Air drying might seem
harmless, but it can actually cause hair to absorb excessive water, leading to hygral fatigue, which weakens the hair's structure. This is especially true for those with porous hair, which readily absorbs moisture. While some believe air drying preserves the hair's natural oils, prolonged wetness can cause the hair shaft to swell and the cuticle to lift, making it more susceptible to damage and breakage. Furthermore, air drying can take a significant amount of time, potentially leading to increased exposure to environmental factors like UV rays and pollutants. These factors can further contribute to hair damage. The method's effectiveness often depends on the individual's hair type, its porosity, and the environmental conditions they're exposed to, so what works for one person may not work for another.
Wet Hair & Colds
An enduring myth is that wet hair leads directly to catching a cold. However, the connection is not so direct. Colds are caused by viruses, not by simply being cold or wet. The misconception likely stems from the fact that people tend to get colds more often during colder months, which also happen to be when people spend more time outside in the rain or with wet hair. Exposure to cold temperatures and wetness might temporarily weaken the immune system, making one slightly more susceptible to a cold virus if they're already exposed. The actual culprit behind catching a cold remains exposure to viral infections, and while wet hair might indirectly contribute to an environment where viruses thrive, it's not the primary cause of contracting a cold. The focus should be on the avoidance of exposure to the cold virus and following proper hygiene practices to avoid spreading it.
Blow Dryers: The Damage?
Many believe blow dryers always cause irreparable hair damage, but this isn't entirely accurate. The damage comes from excessive heat and incorrect usage. Using a blow dryer with high heat settings, especially on wet hair, can strip the hair of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, brittleness, and breakage. Additionally, holding the dryer too close to the hair or concentrating heat on one area for too long can further exacerbate the damage. However, blow dryers don't have to be harmful. Using a low heat setting, holding the dryer at a safe distance, and using a heat protectant spray can significantly minimize the damage. Proper technique, such as moving the dryer continuously and avoiding direct heat on the same spot, is also essential. Moreover, different hair types respond differently, so what is suitable for one type might not be ideal for another. When used carefully and correctly, blow dryers can be a viable way to style hair without causing significant damage.
Washing Frequency Effects
The impact of frequent washing on hair health is a common concern. While washing your hair too often can strip away the natural oils, called sebum, it does not necessarily cause direct damage. Sebum acts as a natural conditioner, keeping the hair moisturized and protected. Excessive washing removes this protective layer, making the hair drier, more prone to frizz, and more susceptible to damage. However, the exact frequency of washing that is considered 'too often' varies greatly depending on the individual's hair type, scalp oil production, and lifestyle. People with oilier hair might need to wash their hair more frequently, whereas those with drier hair can wash their hair less often. Furthermore, the type of shampoo used can also affect the frequency of washing. Harsh shampoos can strip the hair of essential oils more quickly than milder, sulfate-free options. The key is to find a washing routine that suits one's hair type and lifestyle, keeping the hair clean without over-drying it.
Towel Drying: Right Choice?
Towel drying is often hailed as the best method for all hair types. However, this is not always true. Standard bath towels, made of rough cotton fibers, can cause friction, leading to hair breakage, especially when the hair is wet and at its most vulnerable. Rubbing the hair vigorously with a towel can lift the hair cuticle, causing frizz and damage. For some hair types, especially curly or textured hair, this can disrupt the natural curl pattern. Using a microfiber towel or an old cotton t-shirt can mitigate this issue, as these materials are softer and gentler on the hair, reducing friction and minimizing damage. For some, even using a towel to gently pat the hair to remove excess water, instead of rubbing, can also reduce damage. The ideal drying method will depend on the hair type, the condition, and the desired result. The choice should be based on techniques that cause minimal friction and maintain the hair's natural moisture.
