5 Everyday Practices That Quietly Harm Your Hair

While it’s common knowledge that certain habits like skipping heat protectants, neglecting trims, or excessive highlighting can harm your hair, there are lesser-known behaviors that also wreak havoc. Stylists reveal five subtle yet damaging habits and offer tips on how to avoid them.

1. Going to Bed with Damp Hair

For those who prefer nighttime showers and hair washing, it might be tempting to sleep with damp hair, but it’s best to avoid this habit. “Wet hair during sleep can lift the cuticle, the hair’s outer layer, leading to split ends and breakage,” says Katelyn Ellsworth, a natural color and extension expert and founder of The Roslyn in San Diego.

Adding to the issue, the friction from hair rubbing against your pillowcase overnight can cause frizz and tangles, creating a perfect storm for damage. (Ellsworth points out that while this affects all hair types, those with fine hair are particularly vulnerable.) To minimize harm, stylist Annagjid ‘Kee’ Taylor of Deeper Than Hair recommends blow-drying hair until it’s slightly damp and styling it in a loose, low braid to prevent it from dragging across the pillow.

2. Combing Wet Hair

Brushing hair right after a shower is another common mistake. “Hair is most fragile when wet, and aggressive brushing can cause breakage, split ends, and damage,” warns hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons.

However, detangling damp hair is essential, especially for curly textures. The key lies in the approach. Fitzsimons suggests using a microfiber towel to gently remove excess water, as it’s softer and less abrasive than traditional terry cloth. For curly hair, a Denman brush can help detangle while maintaining curl definition. For other hair types, a wide-tooth comb is ideal for gently working through nearly dry hair.

3. Neglecting to Clean Your Hair Tools

While cleaning makeup brushes is often emphasized, hair tools like brushes and combs are frequently overlooked. Fitzsimons warns that accumulated dead skin cells, oils, and product residue on brushes can transfer back into your hair if not cleaned regularly. He suggests cleaning them weekly with warm water and a mild shampoo to maintain hygiene.

Additionally, styling tools like curling irons and straighteners also require cleaning. Taylor highlights that product buildup on these tools can lead to grease, bacteria, and even metal erosion over time. She recommends cleaning them monthly with alcohol wipes, ensuring the tools are turned off and cooled down before cleaning.

4. Overlooking Sun Protection for Hair

Just as your skin needs protection from the sun, so does your hair. Ellsworth explains that sun exposure can alter hair color, often bringing out unwanted yellow tones in blondes and brunettes. Taylor adds that UV rays can damage hair cells, potentially speeding up hair thinning and overall damage. The solution is straightforward: wear a hat in the sun or use hair products with SPF, advises Ellsworth.

5. Over-Tightening Your Ponytail

While a sleek, tight ponytail is undeniably stylish, wearing it too often can cause harm. Fitzsimons explains that excessive tension from tight ponytails can strain the scalp, potentially leading to hair loss around the hairline and temples, especially for those with fine or thin hair.

Fortunately, you don’t have to give up ponytails entirely. Fitzsimons suggests incorporating gentler styles, such as low buns or loose braids, into your routine to reduce stress on your hair.