Mumbai, July 12: In today’s world, everyone wants their hair to look beautiful and stylish. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to change up their daily look, people are experimenting with various hairstyles. Common tools like straighteners for sleek hair, curling irons for waves, hair dryers for quick drying, and extensions for volume have become popular. While these tools can enhance hair’s appearance in minutes, improper use can gradually weaken hair health.
Dermatologists explain that the outer layer of hair, known as the cuticle, serves as a protective barrier. Frequent exposure to high heat, tension, or heavy accessories can compromise this layer, leading to dry, lifeless, and brittle hair.
Straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers are among the most commonly used tools. They can make hair look instantly beautiful, but excessive heat can strip hair of its internal moisture. This can weaken the natural proteins in hair, reducing shine and increasing the risk of split ends. Additionally, the hot air from blow dryers can contribute to dryness of the scalp.
Experts recommend applying a heat protection product before using heat styling tools. It’s also advisable to avoid raising the temperature excessively. Instead of using these tools daily, it’s essential to give hair a break and allow it to recover naturally.
Tightly tying hair can also cause gradual damage. Many individuals maintain tight ponytails, braids, or overly pulled hairstyles for extended periods, which puts constant pressure on the hair roots. This condition, known medically as traction alopecia, can lead to hair loss, particularly around the forehead and sides.
When tying hair, it’s better to use soft fabric hair bands or opt for loose hairstyles. Varying hairstyles instead of sticking to one can help reduce pressure on the hair.
Hair clips and pins can also impact hair health. Heavy metal clips or overly tight pins can pull on hair and exert pressure on the scalp. Prolonged use can lead to pain, irritation, and hair breakage. Therefore, using lighter and more comfortable clips is recommended.
Combs also play a crucial role in hair health. Using combs with very stiff teeth or poor-quality brushes can lead to excessive hair breakage. A wide-toothed comb is preferable for detangling. It’s also important to clean combs and brushes regularly to prevent dirt buildup that can harm hair and scalp health.
The trend of using hair extensions to achieve thicker and longer hair has also increased significantly. However, wearing heavy extensions for extended periods can add weight to hair roots. Continuous tension can weaken hair and exacerbate hair loss issues. Therefore, it’s advisable to opt for lighter extensions and avoid keeping them on for several weeks at a stretch.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.