5 Common Combing Mistakes That Can Cause Hair Fall and How to Avoid Them

Combing is an essential part of our daily hair care routine, but improper technique can lead to hair damage and even hair fall. Understanding and avoiding common combing mistakes can help maintain your hair’s health and prevent unnecessary breakage. Here are five common combing mistakes that contribute to hair fall and tips on how to avoid them:

1. Combing Wet Hair

Mistake: Combing hair while it’s still wet is a common mistake that can lead to significant hair breakage. Wet hair is more elastic and prone to damage compared to dry hair.

Solution: Allow your hair to air dry or use a blow dryer on a cool setting before combing. If you must detangle wet hair, use a wide-toothed comb and be gentle to minimize breakage. Start combing from the ends and work your way up to avoid pulling.

2. Using the Wrong Type of Comb

Mistake: Using a comb with tight or sharp teeth can cause damage to the hair cuticles and lead to hair fall. Plastic combs with rough edges can also snag and break hair.

Solution: Opt for a wide-toothed comb with smooth, rounded teeth. This type of comb is gentle on the hair and helps to detangle without causing excessive friction or breakage. For styling, use a comb with widely spaced teeth to reduce the risk of damage.

3. Combing Hair Aggressively

Mistake: Aggressively tugging or pulling on hair while combing can cause it to snap and break. This is often done in an attempt to quickly remove knots or tangles.

Solution: Be gentle when combing your hair. If you encounter tangles, use your fingers to carefully work them out before using a comb. Patience and a gentle touch will help prevent hair breakage and minimize hair fall.

4. Skipping Regular Maintenance

Mistake: Failing to regularly clean your comb can lead to the buildup of dirt, oil, and hair products, which can transfer back to your hair and scalp, potentially leading to scalp issues and hair damage.

Solution: Clean your comb regularly to remove any accumulated residue. Wash it with mild soap and water, and allow it to dry completely before using it again. Keeping your comb clean ensures that you’re not transferring dirt or oils back onto your hair and scalp.

5. Combing Hair Too Frequently

Mistake: Over-combing your hair can lead to excessive manipulation and stress on the hair follicles, which can contribute to hair fall and thinning.

Solution: Limit the number of times you comb your hair throughout the day. Once or twice a day is generally sufficient for most people. Focus on using proper techniques and avoid over-combing, which can put unnecessary strain on your hair.

Additional Tips for Healthy Hair Combing

• Condition Your Hair: Use a leave-in conditioner or detangling spray to make combing easier and reduce friction.
• Avoid Combing When Hair is Extremely Dry: If your hair is very dry, use a moisturizing spray or oil before combing to add some slip and prevent breakage.
• Consider Your Hair Type: Different hair types may require different combing techniques. For example, curly hair might need more careful detangling to prevent frizz and breakage.

Image credits: Image by diana.grytsku on Freepik