We all know that using heat styling tools and colouring our locks regularly can wreak some serious havoc on our manes. But, do you know which other sneakier offenders can damage your tresses? Enter: Everyday hairstyles that can be very problematic and cause hair breakage. Ahead, find five styles that are culprits and what you can do instead to take care of your hair.
The same parting and ponytail every day
Image source: Instagram/Katrinakaif
File this under unbelievable but true. Parting your hair the same way and tying it up in a ponytail at the same spot every single day isn’t doing your mane any favours. The regular tension at the roots and pulling on the same strands causes breakage and fallout. To avoid this, consider changing your hair part and the position in which you place your ponytail. Another reason for hair loss? The hair ties you use. Make sure the ones you’re using are made of silk or are snag-free, smooth elastics.
Topknots
Image source: Instagram/Zendaya
A messy top knot might be your ideal on-the-go hairstyle but it can also damage your hair. The constant stress on your hair follicles can cause breakage so avoid tying your hair too tightly. Instead, move your knot lower towards your nape and secure it with a soft scrunchie or a couple of bobby pins.
Tight braids
Image source: Instagram/Saraalikhan95
Braids look double-worthy on any and every hair type but they can also cause major damage to your hair. If your roots hurt after you untie your plait then consider that as a sign that you’re tying your hair a little too tightly. To avoid this, try loosening the base of your ponytail so it doesn’t strain your roots.
Wet, slicked-back buns
Image source: Instagram/Bellahadid
Throwing your hair up in a ponytail after you wash it is an easy way to get your mane out of the way but this can cause more damage than it is worth. Wet hair is weaker and can easily snap and break. Instead, let your locks air-dry or just blow dry your roots so you get rid of a majority of the moisture.
Braids near the hairline
Image source: Instagram/Ananyapanday
Face-framing twists are great because they’re the easiest way to add detail to any hairstyle. But, the hair near your crown is the thinnest and most susceptible to breakage. You don’t have to forego braids altogether; just make sure you’re not repeating the hairstyle too often and securing them loosely.