Scalp and Hair Mistakes You Might Be Making

In our clinics, Hårklinikken experts are constantly debunking myths, sharing as much know-how as possible to arm clients with all the information required to combat hair loss and thinning, and start really transforming their scalp and hair health. There seem to be countless DOs and DON’Ts in the world of hair care, some more surprising than others. Here, we’re breaking down some of the most common mistakes people make.

Not Cleansing Frequently or Correctly

While it seems rudimentary, it’s common to not properly cleanse your scalp and hair. Infrequent shampooing and incorrect techniques often lead to excessive buildup (from sebum, sweat, dead skin cells, product and pollutants) which can potentially clog hair follicles, cause scalp irritation, dandruff, and eventually hair loss.

To correctly cleanse your hair, make sure to drench it first and then take a few pumps of shampoo. Place your fingertips underneath your hair (rather than on top of your head) and massage the emulsified shampoo into your entire scalp – making sure not to neglect the crown or nape. It’s important to knead with your fingertips rather than rub or scratch using your fingernails. For a full guide on shampooing, read on here.

Skipping Conditioner and Hydrating Products

All hair types need hydration. Not using conditioners and masks can result in strands being dry and inflexible, making them prone to tangles and breakage. Well-moisturised hair is more manageable, less prone to damage thanks to its increased elasticity and softness. Read more here for tips to correctly use our conditioners and Hair Mask.

Using the Wrong Products

Using products not suited for your scalp or hair type and possibly formulated using harsh chemicals can cause a number of issues. From parabens to silicones and certain sulphates and alcohols, it’s important to know which ingredients are potentially problematic and which aren’t. Additionally, understanding your scalp and hair type can make a huge difference when it comes to selecting shampoos, conditioners, masks and styling products.

Brushing Wet Hair

Because hair is most fragile and prone to damage when it’s wet, brushing it can lead to breakage and split ends. We recommend gently running a wide-tooth comb or your fingers through your wet hair to detangle.

Sleeping with Wet Hair

Going to bed with wet hair (or wearing a hat or scarf over wet hair) creates the ideal environment for bacteria and fungus – as they thrive in damp, humid conditions. Imbalances caused by fungus and bacteria can promote various scalp problems including dandruff, dermatitis, or folliculitis. We suggest postponing your wash day until you can let your hair properly air-dry or blow-dry it on a low setting.

Relying on Dry Shampoo

While dry shampoo can help extend the time between washes, this type of product is adding to the product buildup on your scalp and hair. It can clog follicles (possibly leading to scalp issues and hair loss) and leave residue on your strands. If you do decide to use dry shampoo, make sure to wash your scalp and hair thoroughly as soon as possible. Remember: despite its name, dry shampoo isn’t shampoo at all.

Applying Conditioner and Styling Products to Scalp

These products are designed for your strands, and applying them directly to your scalp can leave it feeling greasy and increase buildup. Take a look at our guide to conditioning here.

Excessive Heat Styling

Frequent use of heat styling tools like blow dryers, straighteners and curling irons can damage the hair’s protein structure, leading to dryness, brittleness and split ends. We recommend air-drying your hair whenever possible and when using hot tools, always having them on a low setting.

Heat Styling Without Heat Protectant

Using hot styling tools without a heat protectant can result in dryness, breakage, and the loss of natural shine and elasticity. It’s important to create a barrier between your strands and the heat before blow drying, curling or straightening. Read our how-to on hot tools here.

Not Rinsing Hair Before Swimming

Chlorine and saltwater can dry out hair, leaving it prone to damage. Rinsing your hair with fresh water before swimming can help minimise the amount of chlorine or salt your hair absorbs, reducing the amount of damage done.

Showering in Super-Hot Water

Very hot water can sometimes increase scalp irritation and strip it of natural oils – leading to dryness and tightness. We always recommend shampooing with lukewarm to warm water.

Wearing Damaging Hairstyles

Hairstyles that pull tightly on the hair can cause traction alopecia, a type of hair loss resulting from repeated, excessive hair pulling. Frequent use of hair elastics and clips can also contribute to breakage and damage. Whenever possible, loosen your braids, buns and ponytails to reduce the amount of tension, reducing the potential damage to hair follicles.

Only Focusing on Strands

Scalp health is integral to hair health. To ensure the hair you’re growing is stronger, it’s important to focus on the scalp. That means correct and frequent cleansing, as well as considering internal factors that impact your scalp and hair health – from nutrient deficiencies to stress and poor gut health. Our Hair Supplement has been designed to address eight key contributors to hair loss, hair thinning and shedding from the inside.

Ignoring Early Signs of Hair Loss

Early signs of hair loss (such as excessive shedding or noticing wispy strands at the temples) should not be dismissed. Once people notice these signs, chances are the thinning process has been underway for many years. Addressing hair thinning and loss promptly can mean preventing further hair loss and even drastically improving the hair you grow in the future.