Fashion
This Common Habit Could Be Destroying Your Hair
Even if you don't like to brush your hair every day, most of us have to do something to it when we get out of the shower. Tangles = no fun, but that doesn't mean you should necessarily be brushing them. Wondering if you should brush or comb wet hair? Turns out, both can actually hurt your hair.
Your hair is at its weakest when it's wet, making it extremely prone to damage in the form of split ends and even breakage, so you have to be overly cautious, and that means not yanking through those tangles. But when it comes down to the choice of a comb or a brush, though one is slightly better, neither are really great options.
While there is no completely damage-free way to brush wet hair (anytime you're tearing through wet hair, you're risking breakage), if you have to choose one or the other, choose a comb, but make sure it's wide-toothed. If the teeth are wide enough apart, then it doesn't tug on the hair as much. This isn't fool-proof, and you definitely could still have some breakage if your hair is particularly weak to begin with, but it's a heck of a lot better than brushing it.
So how should you be caring for your hair when it's wet then? Here are a few tips.
1. Do Nothing
If you can get away with it, the best thing you can do is nothing — just wait and let your hair dry. But given that most of us can't handle that...
2. Use Your Fingers
Running your hands through your hair instead of a comb can help to detangle, without causing the damage.
3. Use A Detangler
Oribe Split End Seal, $48, Amazon
Before you put any tension on your hair (whether from a comb or your fingers), soften your strands and make them slick enough for a comb to slide through with a detangling cream or serum.
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4. Choose A Wide-Tooth Comb
Detangling Comb, $7, The Body Shop
If the teeth are wider, you'll risk less tug.
5. Buy A Wet Brush
There are special tools formulated for wet hair that can help detangle without all the pulling.
6. Start At The Ends
Starting at the ends and working your way up instead of brushing from the top down helps to reduce breakage and tension on the hair.
7. Use Short Strokes
Be careful, use short strokes, and go slow to avoid any tug and breakage.
Images: Getty Images (4); Oribe; The Body Shop; The Wet Brush; Isla Murray
