Avoid The Most Common Wet Hair Mistakes For Healthy Hair

Ensuring the health and longevity of your hair requires a thoughtful approach, mainly when dealing with the vulnerability of wet hair. Wet hair, as a stylistic canvas, demands heightened care and attention to prevent damage and preserve its strength, health, and luscious appeal over the years. Siobhán Quinlan, the creative director, stylist, and colorist at Art + Autonomy Salon in New York City, emphasizes the fragility of wet hair, underscoring the need for meticulous handling, especially for individuals with highlighted hair.

From a scientific perspective, the structure of wet hair is altered as the proteins constituting each strand, known as keratin, form weaker hydrogen bonds. This structural change renders wet hair more susceptible to damage from various forms of manipulation, including pulling, stretching, bending, or rough handling. Unlike dry hair, damp hair cannot snap back into place, leading to the bending of the cuticle—the flexible shield holding the keratin proteins—which, in turn, results in the appearance and feel of damaged hair.

A series of common mistakes associated with wet hair care are outlined, accompanied by expert advice on rectifying these pitfalls. Brushing wet hair, often considered a routine practice, can contribute to breakage. Quinlan suggests brushing dry hair before showering to address challenging tangles, promoting a gentler approach when the hair is wet. Choosing a suitable brush is crucial; for detangling wet hair, The Flex Brush is recommended, boasting soft boar and nylon bristles that bend with the hair, preventing painful snags, and catering to all hair types and textures.

Aggressive brushing techniques can exacerbate the vulnerability of damp hair, and Quinlan emphasizes the importance of a gentle approach. Starting from the ends and working upward while holding the section of hair being brushed can minimize damage. Additionally, using a leave-in conditioner or detangler, such as UNITE Hair 7SECONDS Detangler Leave-In Conditioner, can further reduce snags and enhance the smoothness of the locks.

The method of drying wet hair is also pivotal, with Quinlan dismissing the notion of specific towels in favor of highlighting proper handling. Gently squeezing moisture out rather than rubbing is recommended to prevent roughing up the hair. The prohibition of hot tools on wet hair is emphasized, as heat can essentially “cook” the hair by boiling the water present, causing severe damage.

Attempting to tie wet hair with a ponytail holder is discouraged due to the change in hair elasticity as it transitions from wet to dry. Wet hair’s tendency to shrink as it dries makes it susceptible to breakage at the band. Instead, hairpins or clips are recommended for those desperate to tie up their hair before it dries.

Blow-drying soaking-wet hair is cautioned against for styling efficiency and to prevent unnecessary strain on the hair. Quinlan suggests towel drying the hair well or allowing it to air dry partially before blow-drying to optimize the process.

Applying oils and serums is most effective on wet hair, ensuring these products lock in moisture. Treating the scalp and hair as an extension of the face, the recommendation is to apply these products while the hair is still wet for maximum benefits.

Individuals looking to straighten their hair are advised to start the process while it is wet. Wet hair allows for a more prolonged period during which it stays straight as it dries. The bonds within the hair are broken when wet and fixed as the hair dries, making it challenging to achieve straight hair if it airs dry to a wavy state. In essence, these wet hair care tips serve as a comprehensive guide to preserving the health and aesthetic appeal of one’s hair, recognizing the delicacy of wet hair, and offering practical solutions for optimal care.