Hair Myths Debunked – What Your Stylist Wants You to Stop Believing

There’s a lot of hair advice floating around, but not all of it is true. Some myths have been passed down for generations, leading people to follow routines that might actually be damaging their hair. It’s time to separate fact from fiction and uncover the truth behind common hair myths.

Myth #1: Trimming Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster

Truth: Hair growth happens at the scalp, not the ends. While regular trims prevent split ends and keep hair looking healthy, they don't speed up hair growth. However, avoiding trims can cause breakage, making it seem like your hair isn’t growing.

Myth #2: Washing Your Hair Every Day Keeps It Healthier

Truth: Overwashing strips your hair of natural oils, causing dryness and irritation. Most people only need to wash their hair 2-3 times per week. If you have an oily scalp, try dry shampoo between washes instead.

Myth #3: Plucking One Gray Hair Makes More Grow Back

Truth: Plucking a gray hair won’t cause more to grow, but it can damage the follicle, potentially leading to thinning or hair loss over time. Instead of plucking, consider embracing your grays or opting for a professional color treatment.

Myth #4: Brushing Your Hair 100 Times a Day Makes It Shinier

Truth: Over-brushing can cause breakage, split ends, and frizz. Instead, brush gently to detangle and distribute natural oils, but don’t overdo it.

Myth #5: You Should Change Your Shampoo Regularly

Truth: Your hair doesn’t get "used to" shampoo. If your shampoo stops working, it could be due to buildup from styling products or environmental factors. Using a clarifying shampoo once in a while can help remove residue.

Myth #6: Cold Water Makes Hair Shinier

Truth: While cold water can slightly help seal the cuticle, it won’t drastically improve shine. Using the right hair products—like leave-in conditioners and shine serums—is much more effective.

Myth #7: Heat Protectants Prevent All Damage

Truth: Heat protectants reduce damage but don’t eliminate it. Always use the lowest heat setting necessary and avoid frequent use of hot tools for healthier hair.

Myth #8: Dandruff Is Caused by a Dry Scalp

Truth: Dandruff is usually caused by an overgrowth of yeast or an oily scalp, not dryness. Using anti-dandruff shampoo with ingredients like zinc pyrithione or tea tree oil can help manage flakes.

Myth #9: The More Conditioner, The Better

Truth: Overusing conditioner can weigh hair down, especially for those with fine or oily hair. Apply conditioner mainly to the mid-lengths and ends to avoid a greasy scalp.

Myth #10: Split Ends Can Be Repaired

Truth: No product can fully repair split ends. The only way to get rid of them is by trimming. Using deep conditioning treatments can help prevent them from forming in the first place.

Myth #11: Hair Grows Thicker After Shaving

Truth: Shaving doesn’t change the thickness, color, or growth rate of hair. It may appear thicker initially because the blunt ends of shaved hair make it feel coarser.

Myth #12: Towel-Drying Your Hair Is Best

Truth: Rubbing your hair with a towel can cause frizz and breakage. Instead, gently pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt to reduce damage.

Myth #13: Natural Oils Are Bad for Your Hair

Truth: Your scalp produces natural oils that nourish and protect your hair. Washing too frequently or using harsh shampoos can strip these oils, leading to dryness and irritation.

Myth #14: Stress Causes Gray Hair Overnight

Truth: While stress can contribute to premature graying over time, it won’t turn your hair gray overnight. Genetics play the biggest role in when and how quickly you go gray.

Myth #15: Salon Products Are Just Overpriced Drugstore Products

Truth: Salon-quality products often contain higher-quality ingredients and fewer fillers. While some drugstore products are great, many contain sulfates and silicones that can cause buildup and damage over time.

By ditching these common hair myths, you can take better care of your hair and make smarter styling choices. When in doubt, always trust your stylist—they know what works best for your hair type and lifestyle!