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Top 10 haircare myths BUSTED

All of the following are common misconceptions and have no impact upon a healthy head of hair!

Hair is the extension of protein growth known as keratin and is only found in mammals. It is the same protein found in your nails. The hair follicles are embedded deep inside the dermis or skin surface and projected from the epidermis. Every human being has an average of 100,000 hair follicles on their heads.

Hair texture can be of different types. Some people's hair is smooth and straight while others have curly, coarse or rough manes. The texture of hair varies according to the thickness of individual hair follicles.

Men are more prone to baldness or androgenic alopecia than women and a number of factors cause this condition -- hormones, age and genetics. Women are not likely to experience this condition unless they suffer from some serious ailment like cancer. They can experience thinning of hair as they age, but they will not go completely bald.

Here we bring you some more facts about hair -- and they're just the opposite of what you think!

Myth 1: Using too many hair products can cause hair loss

There's no concrete proof that usage of different types of hair products on the scalp can lead to hairfall. High-end, expensive hair-conditioning products are manufactured after much research and do not contain harmful agents that lead to hair loss. On the other hand, some homemade hair products can damage your hair.

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Myth 2: Hair loss occurs because of infrequent haircuts

This is totally false. Hair growth and hair thickness remain unaffected by cutting.

Some people have a misconceived notion that cutting their hair actually makes it thicker. This is because the base of the hair is much thicker than the ends, so when hair is cut it does appear to be thicker. When it grows out again, however, it will be the same as before.

Hair thickness can be achieved through use of hair products containing volume enhancers.

Myth 3: Permanent hair loss is caused by colour treatments

This is also untrue. Many hair colourants contain chemicals, but they will not cause hair loss. They may cause some damage to your hair, to a certain extent, but use of conditioners will take care of this. However, keep in mind that subjecting your hair to excessive bleaching can result in hair loss.

Myth 4: Washing your hair everyday can cause hair loss

You are free to wash your hair everyday and no hair loss will occur, but the recommended number of washes is thrice a week to keep your hair healthy and clean.

Leaving hair unwashed for long periods is more damaging, as the pores in the head can get blocked by the secretion of natural oils.

Myth 5: Rinse-out conditioners are not effective in hair loss control

This again is a false statement. Conditioners contain essential proteins that help to moisturise the hair follicles. Using them will leave your hair looking shinier and softer. Your mane also gets the protection it requires.

Myth 6: Excessive use of shampoo will keep your hair cleaner

Many people think using a big handful of shampoo will leave their scalp much cleaner. This is wrong. Just a small amount will do to work up a good lather, wash your hair and leave it clean.

Myth 7: Conditioners are effective repairers of split ends

Conditioners will not repair split hair ends, as there is no special formula to deal with this condition. A good conditioner leaves hair follicles smooth and helps improve appearance of hair. Conditioners help prevent damage to hair follicles that might lead to split ends, but they cannot repair them.

Myth 8: Blow-drying hair often can cause hair loss

Blow-drying the hair will not lead to permanent hairfall. It's the way you blow-dry that's important.

Subjecting your hair and scalp to too much heat can cause severe damage to hair. It should be done in quick, smooth movements making sure your hands help to act as a protective cover over the hair as you smooth it down.

Myth 9: 100 brush strokes leave hair shining and healthy

Brushing should be done gently, otherwise it can lead to split ends and damage the cuticles. A good quality brush or broad comb should be used and the strokes should be firm but gentle. Wet hair should never be combed or brushed.

Myth 10: Direct exposure to sunlight can lead to hair loss

Your hair acts as a protecting cover for your scalp, and exposure to sunlight even for prolonged periods will not cause hairfall, even though it can lead to lack of moisture.

Everybody wants to have healthy, shiny hair on their heads. However, the methods many employ to achieve that crowning glory can sometimes cause more harm, and they end up losing hair instead. So keep informed and take care of you hair the right way!