While a hot shower offers a well-deserved moment of relaxation after a busy day, the effects it has on hair health may come as a surprise.
Although hot water feels pleasant on the skin, it can be detrimental to the delicate structure of hair.
Here's why turning down the temperature in the shower can be a game-changer for your hair health:
- Stripped of Natural Oils: Our scalp produces sebum, an oil that helps keep hair hydrated and protected. Hot water acts like a super cleanser, stripping away this natural defence layer. This can leave your hair dry, brittle, and prone to breakage.
- Cuticle Chaos: The hair cuticle is the outer layer that shields the inner core. Hot water can lift these cuticles, making hair rough, frizzy, and prone to tangles.
- Colour Calamity: For colour-treated hair hot showers are the enemy. The heat can open the hair cuticle, accelerating colour fading and leaving your hair dull.
- Scalp Shenanigans: Hot water can irritate your scalp, leading to dryness, itchiness, and even inflammation. In extreme cases, it can disrupt the hair growth cycle and contribute to hair loss.
So what can you do?
Here are some tips for a shower routine that are kind to your hair:
- Turn Temperature Down: Use lukewarm water instead of hot. It will cleanse your hair effectively without the damage.
- Shorter Showers: The longer you're under the hot water, the more time your hair has to dry out. Aim for shorter showers whenever possible.
- Cool Rinse: Finish your shower with a cool rinse. This helps close the hair cuticle, locking in moisture and boosting shine.
- Deep Conditioning: Pamper your hair with a deep conditioner once or twice a week. This will add extra hydration and help repair any damage caused by hot water exposure.
- Microfibre Towels: Your hair is at it's most fragile state when wet. Use a microfibre towel after the shower to prevent your hair from snapping. We recommend our XL Luxury Hair Wrap to help prevent hair from damage.
- Gentle Brushing: As hair is the most fragile when wet it is important to be gentle when brushing. For this we recommend our Luxury Paddle Brush for detangling hair with ease and being gentle on the scalp.
Nicola Wood founder of Hair Made Easi says "by making these simple adjustments to your shower routine, you can keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and looking its best. Remember, a little cooler water can go a long way for your hair!"