I’m a hair expert, here are 5 hair care myths that actually damage your locks

FROM training your hair to go without washing it to using lemons for ‘natural’ highlights, there are endless tricks to take your hair care routine to the next level.

So it’s easy to get carried away by these seeming solutions for your hair.

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However, experts warn that many of these tricks are myths and can even be harmful to your hair.

Eva Proudman, who has over 20 years of experience in scalp and hair health, has revealed what hair care tips you should pay attention to.

The expert trichologist, who works together with Absolute Collagenalso gave her own alternative tips that won’t ruin your locks.

Her training

Firstly, Eva debunks the claim that you can train your hair to wash less often.

She said: “This myth suggests that abruptly stopping washing your hair can help regulate the production of natural oils that make it greasy. The idea is that your hair will naturally cleanse itself.

However, this is a myth and can cause damage and irritation to your scalp.

“Your body continues to produce the same natural oils as always and if you don’t wash your body, dirt and debris builds up.”

She added: “After a while, you will experience itching and sensitivity, as well as dandruff, as bacteria starts to build up in your hair follicles.

“To keep the scalp clean and balanced, we recommend most people wash their hair daily or every other day.”

Citroen highlights

Another common myth on social media is that natural products like lemon juice can dye your hair without damaging it.

But Eva warns: “You may see a small change in the color of your hair, but this method will also likely damage your hair.

“The citrus in lemon juice is acidic and, not surprisingly, not good for your hair.

“Combined with excessive sun exposure, your hair can become damaged much faster and can even suffer from it, which can result in a sore scalp.”

Cut and grow

“We often hear people say that if they want to grow their hair long, it is best to cut it regularly to promote hair growth,” says Eva.

“But that’s not necessarily true. Your hair grows from the roots, so while removing those split ends will make your hair healthier, it won’t impact growth.”

The hair specialist adds: “If you want to improve your hair growth, you can try more effective methods by making subtle changes to your diet, such as increasing your protein intake, and taking supplements such as collagen.”

Hair dryer

It is a widely held and researched idea that using a blow dryer on wet hair is more damaging than letting it air dry.

But letting your hair dry naturally can actually cause more damage.

Eva explains: “While too much direct heat on the hair can cause breakage, blow-drying on a cool setting is one of the safest ways to dry your hair.

“Alternative methods can often lead to a build-up of bacteria, as the humidity of your hair is an ideal environment for it to grow.

“Our hair is also weakest when it is wet, it breaks and flakes more easily. That’s why it’s a good idea to dry your hair.

“However, be aware that to avoid burns or damage, heated tools should not be hotter than 180 degrees. Also, always try to apply a heat protection spray or serum before using heated tools.”

Gray day

“One of the most dangerous myths out there is that you can pull out gray hairs to prevent them from spreading,” Eva points out.

The trichologist said that not only is it painful to pull them out, but it can also cause damage to your scalp and infections.

Instead, she advises, “It is crucial to take good care of your gray hair, as it is much drier and more prone to breakage.

“Hair without natural color has a thinner cuticle, the outer protective layer of the hair, making it more susceptible to damage from water, UV rays, humidity, chemicals and heat styling.

“Why not embrace your natural gray hair as soon as it appears?”