Are you looking to de-mystify hair myths so that you can look forward to as many “good hair days” as possible in the season ahead? Sam Villa, co-founder of Sam Villa and Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue, called on his ArTeam to clarify some of the more popular hair misconceptions.
MYTH 1: Cutting hair every 6-8 weeks makes it grow faster.
THE TRUTH: Hair grows about ½-inch every month. Regular trims do keep it looking healthy and thick, so it’s recommended to trim every 6-8 weeks, or at the very least every other visit (especially when hair is color-treated).
MYTH 2: Braiding hair will help it grow faster.
THE TRUTH: Braiding hair doesn’t make hair grow any faster, but it can act as a protective measure. Braid your hair loosely to help prevent breakage (which can make hair look shorter).
MYTH 3: NOT blow drying hair makes hair healthier.
THE TRUTH: Hair is in its most fragile state when it's wet, so wrapping it up in a tight bun and sleeping on it can easily create a lot of breakage. A gentle blow dry on a lower heat setting can actually be much better for hair than buns, ponytails, or hair clips when it’s wet and fragile.
MYTH 4: Styling products make hair thicker.
THE TRUTH: Whether the goal is straight, sleek, wavy, curly or natural hair, styling products are designed to support haircuts and texture to get the most out of a style. No matter what a product promises to do, just remember that the result is temporary. The product needs to be applied every time your hair is washed and styled for it to deliver results.
MYTH 5: Blow drying, curling or flat ironing is bad for hair.
THE TRUTH: When using heated appliances, products are not just an option; they are a necessity! If a thermal heat protectant is not applied prior to blow drying, chances are there will be split ends and breakage as a result; not to mention color fading and an overall dry dull appearance. Thermal heat protectants surround the hair with a thin layer of protection that wards off some of the heat conduction and distributes heat more evenly.
Sam Villa, co-founder of Sam Villa(link is external) and Global Artistic Ambassador for Redken 5th Avenue.
