WE’VE ALL STARED in admiration at the beautiful-haired folk in the shampoo ads wondering how we might achieve such feats with our own mops. Well it might surprise you to hear that the well-known advice about brushing your hair 100 strokes a day to keep it shiny and healthy is actually a lie.

Dermatologists in the US have said this week that the way people style their hair can cause significant damage and even hair loss and this 100 strokes a day idea is a dangerous myth.

“Hair myths, such as brushing your hair one hundred strokes each day, can cause split ends,” said dermatologist Paradi Mirmirani, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Francisco this week. “Having healthy hair is possible if you know how to care for your hair before and after styling.”

To help keep those lovely heads of yours looking full, here are some tips from the American Academy of Dermatology:

• Dry your hair by wrapping it in a towel after a shower of bath. Another alternative is letting your hair air-dry;
• Most people should handle wet hair as little as possible as it breaks more easily when combed or brushed. However people with tightly curled or textured hair should brush when wet to decrease the chances of breakage;
• Keep brushing to a minimum. Remember, 100 strokes a day can cause split ends and also some hair loss so back away from the brush;
• Reduce the use of ‘long-lasting hold’ styling products. Using a comb to style your hair after you apply the product can cause the hair to break and can lead to hair loss over time;
• Allow your hair to partially air-dry before you style or comb. Decreasing the number of times per week that you blow dry can also limit damage;
• Straighteners should be used on dry hair on a low or medium setting, no more often than every other day. If using a curling iron, only leave it in place for a second or two. No matter your hair type, excessive heat can damage it;
• Do not continuously wear braids, cornrows, ponytails and hair extensions. These styles pull on thee hair and can cause tension that leads to breakage. If the tension continues permanent hair loss can develop.

Do you have any special tips for keeping hair healthy or preventing hair loss? Tell us in the comments below…

The burning question: Do you brush your hair?
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