February often feels like a time for renewal. With the celebration of Chinese New Year, a time focused on transformation and new beginnings, it’s a natural moment to re-establish routines and prioritize self-care. Just as we attend to our well-being, our hair also benefits from a period of restoration – through hydration, nourishment, and consistent, gentle care.
Hair is more than just a biological feature; it’s a powerful form of self-expression. Its color, style, and texture can reflect our moods, life stages, and personal choices. In the pursuit of our best selves, we often navigate a balance between freedom and control – desiring a style that feels both intentional and authentic, allowing for natural movement and individuality.
However, it’s surprisingly easy to fall into habits that can compromise hair health, leading to dullness, fragility, and increased damage. From washing techniques to the use of heat styling tools, our hair often endures more stress than we realize.
Four Common Mistakes That Can Damage Your Hair
1. Neglecting Thermal Protection During Heat Styling
The use of a thermal protector is crucial when using heat styling tools like flat irons, curling irons, or hair dryers. These products act as a shield, minimizing the damage caused by high temperatures. Heat can dehydrate the hair fiber, weakening it over time. A thermal protector helps prevent this by creating a barrier against the heat.
Kérastase has recently presented Elixir Ultime L’Huile Originale, a limited-edition version of its iconic hair serum. This product is suitable for all hair types and provides thermal protection up to 230°C. Beyond heat protection, it enhances shine, provides softness, and helps control frizz for up to 48 hours. Its formula, enriched with camellia, marula, and argan oils, nourishes and repairs the hair fiber without weighing it down, preserving its natural movement. The serum also features a Pierre de Lune fragrance, offering a sensory experience during hair care.
2. Insufficient Regular Nourishment
Our hair is constantly exposed to stressors – coloring, bleaching, heat styling, and certain hairstyles. These processes can compromise its natural resilience. Regular nourishment is essential. The frequency of deep conditioning treatments can vary – daily, every other day, or weekly – depending on the level of damage. Consistent nourishment helps replenish lost moisture and strengthen the hair shaft.
3. Sleeping with Wet Hair
While seemingly harmless, sleeping with wet hair can be detrimental. The friction against pillows weakens the hair cuticle, leading to tangles and knots that can cause mechanical damage when detangled. This friction also reduces hair elasticity. A moist scalp creates an environment conducive to the proliferation of bacteria and fungi, potentially leading to dandruff or dermatitis.
Experts advise against sleeping with wet hair.
4. Continuing to Use Formaldehyde-Based Treatments in 2026
Fortunately, numerous healthier alternatives to formaldehyde-based hair straightening treatments are now available. These alternatives emerged after the recognition of formaldehyde’s harmful effects on both hair and overall health.
Formaldehyde damages the internal structure of the hair and can interfere with subsequent coloring or bleaching processes. While it may initially create a temporary appearance of smoothness and shine, this effect is superficial and short-lived. Over time, hair becomes dry and weak. Formaldehyde creates a film that prevents nourishing, hydrating, or repairing treatments from penetrating the hair shaft.
Often, when hair appears dull and brittle, the root cause lies in our daily habits. Making small, sustainable changes to our hair care routine can significantly improve its vitality and, in turn, boost our self-esteem. Prioritizing hair health is an investment in overall well-being.
Recognizing and addressing these common mistakes is a key step towards achieving healthier, more resilient hair. A mindful approach to hair care, focused on protection, nourishment, and gentle handling, can unlock its natural beauty and strength.
