Which Hair Myths Need To Be Debunked?

Hairstylists have heard a fair share of outlandish yet common hair care misconceptions. So, what’s the best way to kick these myths to the curb? Educate salon clients.

Some Myth Busters

Like other misconceptions, hair myths are often passed down from generation to generation. Having open and respectful conversations with clients about these falsehoods is a great way for stylists to stop the perpetuation of misinformation. Here, Beauty Launchpad educators Hana Norris (@hanas_salon_inspo) and Jess Rowland (@row_house_hair) discuss the most common myths they hear from clients; advice on educating clients; and the untruths that they believed.

Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a common hair myth that you frequently hear from clients?

Hana Norris (HN): “Trimming your hair makes it grow faster.” Your hair doesn’t grow from the ends! Trimming your hair prevents your hair from breaking by removing the weak, thin and damaged parts of your hair. This makes the hair appear to grow faster and look thicker.

“You can repair split ends.” Nope, the only solution is to cut them off. Encourage clients to work toward creating good habits by incorporating professional products and styling tools into their haircare regimen.

“Brush your hair 100 strokes a day for healthy hair.” Brushing causes friction on the hair. It can damage the hair, especially if it is weak or fragile. Avoid brushes that have broken or bent bristles.

BLP: What is your go-to way of educating clients when misconceptions creep into the hair consultation and/or appointment?

HN: Never humiliate a guest for believing or having a misconception. It is so important for our guests to feel comfortable and open to conversations. I can’t even count the number of misconceptions I have had through the years. The great thing is we never stop learning.

It is okay to not have all the answers. If you truly don’t know, your guest will have much more respect for you by simply letting them know that you would be happy to research the topic and get back to them.

Address misconceptions with positive reinforcement with phrases like: “That is a very interesting thought or question. I can see how that could be confusing, but let me explain the process better to help you understand.”

I’ve never found a guest who isn’t open to a better understanding if they do not feel undermined or uncomfortable.

BLP: Is there a hair myth that you believed for longer than you should? How did you learn it was not true?

Jess Rowland: That shampooing hair daily prevents oily hair; I learned this the hard way on myself by realizing it was making my hair worse! The hair can produce more oils when being stripped of it. I use dry shampoo in between washes if needed.