27/02/2024
Are We Killing Our Hair With Kindness?
While scalp and haircare boom, we ask it a simple, stripped-back routine is actually better for your locks.
You have probably heard the phrase 'the skinification of hair' by now, or noticed how many more hair products include ingredients you recognise from skincare. Maybe you have spotted a sharp rise in scalp products on the shelves, or all the different treatments going viral on social media
PRODUCT BUILD-UP
Lavishing your hair in decadent products? According to Dr Jitesh Bhatt MD hair specialist, "Using an excessive amount of hair products, such as conditioners or leave-in treatments, without properly rinsing them out can result in product build-up. This can make your hair appear dull and weighed down."that this build-up "can clog hair follicles and disrupt the natural balance of the scalp, potentially leading to scalp irritation, dandruff, or even hair loss". Far from ideal.
MOISTURE OVERLOAD VS PROTEIN OVERLOAD
Yes, because you can have too much of either, which disrupts their vital balance. Excessive conditioning can lead to a moisture overload, which Jennie says can "weigh down your hair and make it look lifeless and [like it's] lacking volumeтАЭ. The extreme softness can leave hair feeling тАЬmushyтАЭ, more susceptible to breakage and result in a loss of curl pattern. A protein overload is on the other end of the spectrum, and can result in dry, brittle hair that is prone to frizz, breakage, and split ends. This vicious cycle can lead you to...youтАЩve guessed it, reach for more treatments.
SCALP IRRITATION
It is great that we are paying a bit more attention to our scalps, but they are very sensitive, especially if you are introducing multiple new products in a short span of time without knowing how they will interact. тАЬIf your scalp feels itchy, sensitive or inflamed, it could be a result of overtreating,тАЭ that excessive product use can тАЬirritate the scalp and disrupt its natural balance, leading to discomfort and potential scalp issues such as dandruff or dermatitisтАЭ.
STRIPPING IT RIGHT BACK
The haircare industry is endlessly innovative and some of the many products available can provide real solutions to real problems. But sometimes, taking it back to basics is the most effective approach. тАЬSimplicity in haircare reduces the risk of overloading your hair with harsh chemicals, which can lead to dryness and damage,тАЭ says Hannah. тАЬEmbracing a straightforward routine nourishes the hairтАЩs natural oils and protects the strands, which results in improved overall hair health, reduced frizz and enhanced shine.тАЭ Taking your routine right back to the non-negotiables leaves just two tasks: to cleanse and hydrate. Get those right for your hair and you will have a solid, simple routine on your hands.
