A leading hairdresser and trichologist has issued a stark warning to women who frequently opt for tight hairstyles, urging them to reconsider their choices to maintain healthier locks.
Rachel Valentine, a seasoned expert in hair care, cautions that popular updos, particularly slicked-back buns, can be detrimental to hair health. She emphasized that tension on the scalp, caused by these tight styles, can lead to a condition known as traction alopecia. This condition occurs when excessive pulling on the scalp causes the hair to detach from its follicles, potentially resulting in finer hair or even visible patches of hair loss.
“Tight hairstyles can cause significant damage over time,” Valentine explained. “The tension they create can lead to hair breakage and, in severe cases, permanent hair loss.”
Valentine advocates for looser hairstyles, which she asserts are far gentler on the hair and scalp. She also advises against wearing trendy styles like the messy bun, which, despite their casual appearance, can impose similar stress on the hair follicles.
Another key piece of advice from the hair expert is to avoid tying up wet hair. “Our hair is incredibly fragile when wet,” Valentine warned. “It’s best to dry your hair before securing it with a tie or clip to prevent breakage.”
In addition to styling tips, Valentine emphasizes the importance of nutrition in maintaining healthy hair. She highlights the significance of protein in the diet, noting that hair is composed of 95% protein. “Increasing your protein intake can lead to a noticeable improvement in the strength and appearance of your hair,” she advised.
Valentine also encourages women to promote blood flow to the scalp through regular scalp massages and exercise, which can contribute to overall hair health.
When it comes to using heat styling tools, Valentine urges caution. “Heat is incredibly damaging to hair,” she said. “Always use a heat protectant and try to minimize heat styling whenever possible.”
In a final note, Valentine suggests that trying new hairstyles can boost hair confidence, provided they are mindful of the potential damage that certain styles can cause.
For those looking to maintain youthful, healthy hair, Valentine’s advice serves as a crucial reminder that proper hair care extends beyond the products you use—it’s about the way you treat your hair every day.