10 Hair Facts or Fiction?

Shop the Look Above: Schoolboy Blazer: J Crew // Cashmere Scarf: Burberry // Black Blouse: Topshop // Black Skinny Jeans: Ann Taylor // Loafers: J Crew // Aviators: Coach // Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs // Photos: Libro Musica

There are so many hair myths out there and it is difficult to determine what is fact and what is fiction. Some of the major questions I have are, “does trimming your hair often make your hair grow faster” and “is it bad to shampoo your hair every day?” My hair is pretty dry since I color it, so I make sure I use high-quality hair products and I only wash my hair every other day. I’m definitely not a hair expert, so luckily for you, Madison Reed, a healthy hair care and color products company came up with their own hair do’s and dont’s!

Do Color Hair without Worry. Use healthier hair color! Many popular hair dyes are full of harsh, damaging chemicals. Madison Reed’s “Radiant Cream Color” is packed with keratin, argan oil and ginseng root extract to strengthen and protect your hair. You can also complete Madison Reed’s hair color adviser quiz to determine your perfect hair color!
Do Shield Hair from Sun Exposure. Sunlight fades color and also weakens hair fibers, causing breakage. Use hair care and styling products with UV protection, designed for color-treated hair. I always wear a hat when I go to the beach, mostly to shield my face from the sun but I also wear hats so I don’t fade my hair color.
Don’t Tie Wet Hair in a Ponytail. When your hair is wet, the chemical bonds that hold hair proteins together are temporarily broken, weakening each strand. As hair dries, it shortens and may break if tied back tightly. I’ve put my wet hair in a bun and have ran errands so many times. I’m glad I know this now and will just let my hair dry naturally and not pull it back.
Do Use Heat Protection. The heat from flat irons, curlers and dryers can cause lasting damage to completely “bare” strands, so prep with heat protective serums and sprays. I used to use heat products all the time. Recently I’ve stopped using heat products and have just let my hair dry naturally to give it a rest. After I let my hair dry I’ll just add glossing polish to tame the frizz stray hairs.
Don’t Rinse Hair in Cold Water to Add Shine. Hair cuticles don’t open or close because of hot or cold temperatures. Add gentle shine, conditioning and a color refresh with Madison Reed’s “Color Reviving Gloss” instead. Thank goodness this is a myth because who wants to take cold showers anyway?
Do Ease Up the Tension. Too-tight pony tails, buns and braids can strain your scalp and lead to hair loss. Use frizz-fighting products to create smooth looks without pulling strands back so drastically.
Do Trim Hair Often to Grow Faster. Get a trim every 6-8 weeks to prevent split ends, which cause hair to thin out and break. I’m horrible at scheduling hair trims. I really need to get better at this.
Do Dye Hair during Pregnancy. Good news! Healthier hair color gives women more options than ever before! Dr. Jan Hansen, a board-certified OB/GYN, confirms women can color during pregnancy, but Dr. Hansen advises always to consult your personal doctor first.
Don’t Blow Dry All Winter Long. Wet hair will not increase your chances of catching a cold and constant drying will damage hair. If you’re running out the door, cover up with a parka hood or a cozy hat so you don’t get chilly!
Don’t Shampoo Every Day if You Don’t Need To. If hair is dry, frizzy and unmanageable, you may be washing too much, which strips natural oils and causes color fading. Decrease frequency and you can use Madison Reed’s sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner to lock in color. Like I said earlier, I wash my hair every other day. I have naturally frizzy hair (thanks to my Mom) and washing it every other day really helps.