This was truly the summer of next-level hairstyles. From hot roots to beautiful braids adorned with jewels, summertime gives us all the trend inspo for our tresses. But while we all love a good top knot and a classic plait, did you know some of your favorite hairstyles can be hurting your hair? We all know bleach isn’t the healthiest choice, but even a simple ponytail can do damage. We talked to lead TRESemmé stylist and spokesperson Jeanie Syfu to get the lowdown on which styles are the worst for your hair, and what you can do to avoid the unwanted damage and breakage. Scroll down to read her top no-nos, along with healthier alternatives for keeping your locks looking their best.
1. Tight Braids: While these are super trendy (and pretty), Jeanie says they “can cause serious breakage, specifically around your hairline. Try applying a leave-in conditioner and going for a looser twist or braid to give hair a rest” (and a welcome dose of added conditioning). (Photo via Melodie Jeng/Getty)
2. Slicked-Back Hair: This is Jeanie’s personal favorite hairstyle to keep her bangs out of her face during the sticky summer months, but the chemicals in gel can break down your follicles if used too much. And forget about brushing the style out while it’s still crispy! She advises that you instead “rinse out in the shower with a detangling conditioner” to prevent unnecessary breakage and countless split ends. (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)
3. Pin-Straight Hair: While all heating tools will cause damage, it’s wise to “invest in professional tools to keep your hair in the best condition — a natural bristle brush, a tourmaline dryer with a nozzle and a good heat-controlled digital flat iron with plates that glide. Always use a heat protectant on your hair before applying heat, like TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray ($5).” (Photo via Tristan Fewings/Getty)
4. Super Bleached Locks: Dyeing your tresses is always harmful, but if you’re dying to find out if blondes really do have more fun, “you should really go to a colorist to ensure hair stays in its best condition. Sometimes a high lift color can get you there with less damage,” notes Syfu. (Photo via Pascal Le Segretain/Getty)
5. Wet Hairstyles: Sure, it might be easier to throw your hair in an updo while still wet, but it will cause significant breakage and splitting if this is your go-to ‘do. If you’re in a time crunch, Jeanie suggests adding a styling creme and using large hairpins that grip hair — they’re gentler than drugstore elastic bands. (Photo via Alexander Tamargo/Getty)
6. Habitual Ponytail: It’s easy to get in a hair rut, but putting your hair in a ponytail in the same position day after day can cause damage. Jeanie suggests “mixing up different ways to style your pony. You can do sleek and low with a barrette, loose to the side with a scarf or high at the crown with a piece of leather. Get some fun accessories and make sure to always switch it up if the ponytail is your signature.” (Photo via Frazer Harrison/Getty)
7. Ballerina Buns: Try to avoid a bun for your daily look. A looser, messier bun will cause less damage, but if you prefer the tight ballet look, ditch the hair tie and fasten with large pins only. (Photo via Michael Buckner/Getty)
8. Super Long Locks: The longer your hair is, the older it is, making it more prone to breakage and splitting. “Make sure to give extra care to those ends, since they’re the oldest and most fragile (average growth is 1/4 inch per month!). Trim ends every 6-8 weeks, and try to skip the heat tools daily,” says Jeanie. (Photo via Michael Loccisano/Getty)
9. Keeping Sunglasses on Top of Your Head: Not only is it a tangle-fest waiting to happen, but the constant motion of moving your glasses up and down will cause breakage around your hairline. “Avoid wearing sunglasses with nose guards in the wind where hair can easily get tangled. Keep sunglasses in your bag instead.” (Photo via Peter Michael Dills/Getty)
10. Daily Blowout: Blow-drying your hair every day will dry it out. Instead, find a “style for second-day hair and give your hair and arms a rest! Try TRESemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo ($5) to refresh hair and add a little fluffy texture while you’re at it before you style!” (Photo via Evan Agostini/Getty)
11. Tight Top Knot: Banish those elastic bands, as they can cause damage at the crown of your head and stress your roots! For a chic look without the destruction, “try a looser bun by twisting upward with large hairpins, allowing loose bits of hair to accent your face and neck.” *runs to get a million large hairpins.* (Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)
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