Mythbusters - The Hair Edition

1. Cutting your hair makes it grow faster.

Sorry, but nothing will make your hair grow faster.  We really wish this one was true!  Hair grows about half an inch per month, slightly faster in the summer.  However, regular trims will help keep hair healthy, and prevent split ends from moving farther up the hair shaft.  Trimming off any scraggly ends will make your hair appear thicker, and will keep it more manageable for you as it grows.

2. You need to switch your shampoo regularly, because your hair will "get used to it."

The only time you really need to switch your shampoo is if the needs of your hair change.  For example, if you have always been a brunette, and decide to become a blonde, your volumizing shampoo might not give you enough moisture, meaning it's time for a switch.

3. If you pull out a grey hair, 3 will grow in its place.

We are born with a set number of hair follicles, and plucking out a single strand won't change that number.  It is, however, a bad idea for a number of reasons.  Most importantly, pulling hair can damage the follicle, making the strand less likely to grow back at all.  Sudden trauma to the root of the hair can also open the door to infections.

 

4. You can't colour your hair while pregnant.

Most doctors will agree that there is no danger to the developing child if the mother colours her hair while expecting.  This myth stems from the strong fumes associated with old school colours - and we've come a long way!  It is recommended to avoid exposure to products that contain formaldehyde, such as the Brazilian Blowout, a popular smoothing treatment.  You can always ask your doctor for permission to colour your hair during pregnancy if you have concerns, and ask your stylist if the products used in the salon release formaldehyde fumes.  As well, stylists are allowed to work throughout their pregnancies, offering their full service menu, including colour services!

5. Baldness is passed through the mothers side of the family.

Don't blame mom!  The gene for "androgenic alopecia", or male pattern baldness, can be passed through either side of the family.  There are other types of hair loss that can be caused by stress, trauma to the hair follicle, diet, and pregnancy, to name a few.  These types of hair loss can usually be reversed when the source is identified.