Those hair care myths just keep coming! In this third of 3 articles, we examine some of the most widely known myths - and dig out the truth

1. Hair should be washed every day

FALSE: There is no correct schedule for washing hair. Every person should shampoo according to the specific needs of their hair type and texture. While some people do benefit from a daily shampoo, others benefit from a variety of shampooing schedules.

2. More lather = a more effective shampoo = cleaner hair

FALSE: Lathering agents are often added to shampoos, but more foam doesn't mean cleaner hair.

3. Hair develops immunity to the same shampoo over time

FALSE: There is no scientific evidence to prove this myth.

4. Brushing your hair is better than combing it

FALSE: Actually, your hair reacts better to a comb than a brush. Brushing it will only lead to split ends and hair breakage.

5. Split ends can be repaired without trimming

FALSE: The only successful treatment for removing split ends is with a scissors. Some hair care products may temporarily merge split ends together, but this only lasts until your next shampoo. Always remember that damaged ends tend to grow slower than healthy, well-maintained, trimmed hair.

6. Coloring hair during pregnancy is harmful

FALSE (PROBABLY): Some physicians disagree, but most believe that coloring the hair during pregnancy is not dangerous to the baby. When in doubt always get your physicians permission to color your hair during pregnancy. Most experts believe that the key danger with hair coloring is not the application of the product to the scalp but the inhalation of the strong chemical odor.

7. Virgin root hair should be treated differently

TRUE: The hair that is closest to the roots reacts differently to the application of new hair color and chemical treatments. Hair color applied directly to the roots will process differently that color applied on hair that has already been treated.

8. Lemon juice will bleach hair blonde

FALSE: Some naturally light haired people may notice a slight lightening or brightening after prolonged sun exposure soaked in lemon juice, but most people wont not see any obvious change in their hair lightness or brightness.

9. A sunburnt scalp can lead to hair loss

TRUE: Severe sunburn or a series of burns that occur over time may damage delicate hair follicles at the root level. People with a genetic predisposition towards hair loss may accelerate the onset of hair loss activity. Avoid scalp burns by applying sun protection products to your scalp along with your hair.

10. For thick, shiny hair, eat a diet that's rich in iron and protein

FALSE: Iron deficiency can cause hair loss, but dermatologists say the reverse is not true: eating extra iron will not give you thick hair. In fact, overloading on iron can cause serious health problems (the correct amount for optimal health is about 15 milligrams a day for a woman). The same thing is true with protein. Dermatologists say protein-deficiency will cause lackluster skin and brittle hair. It's important to get enough protein, but eating more than normal won't make hair any shinier.

11. Wearing hats causes hair loss

FALSE: In order for the hair to fall out, the hat would have to be so tight that it cuts circulation to the follicles. Milliners can breathe a collective sigh of relief!

12. Hormones are not related to hair loss

TRUE: Although hormonal imbalance can cause temporary hair loss, as is common with women after pregnancy, the important thing to remember is that the hair will grow back.

13. Swimming pool chemicals can turn hair green

TRUE: Frequent swimmers with natural blonde or chemically highlighted hair that is extremely porous may experience the development of green tints and shades over time. This problem can be prevented with regular use of moisturizing shampoo and conditioners that provides a natural barrier to chlorine and related chemicals.

14. Hair grows faster on different parts of the head

TRUE: There is some scientific evidence that the growth rate of hair may vary on different parts of the head for select people. There is also some indication that the growth rate of hair on babies may be faster on the crown than on any other parts of the scalp. Usually the growth rate differences are very marginal and will not impact the hair appearance in any way.

SUMMARY

Heard another myth about hair? Do your research ask an expert! This doesnt include your grandmother, best friend or local barmaid. Instead, talk to an experienced hairdresser or a trichologist. Always get the real facts before you act on any hair myths you owe it to your hair.

Michael Barrows
(With thanks to Daniel Mcullough and Karen M. Shelton)