I’ve been sporting long hair for quite a few years now. I actually once went 11 years without getting a haircut in any form, including a trim; this was the result of a botched haircut in which I asked for a trim and left with hair above my shoulders.
Allow me to stipulate that my hair was more than halfway down my back when I asked for this particular ‘trim.’
Needless to say, I lost all faith in hairdressers after that experience, and it took me over a decade to find someone I genuinely trusted with my hair again. But, because I went so long without even a trim, my hair grew quite a bit, and is now past my ass. I’m trying to keep it as long as I can endure for my upcoming wedding.
Because I’ve learned some hard lessons in the context of hair over the years, I thought I might offer some of my own personal advice in regards to keeping hair strong and healthy.
First and foremost, do NOT overwash your hair. So many of us figure we need to wash our hair daily, or even every other day, but I’m here to tell you that constant hair washing is not only unnecessary, but it’s actually damaging to hair as it strips away natural oils. Unless you’re looking like you just stepped out of an oil vat, try to go as long as you possibly can without washing your hair. I try not to wash mine more than twice a week, depending on how dirty I get working on the farm.
Don’t use a Wet Brush or any other product along the lines of this one. As much as combing hair sucks, it is far more advantageous for hair than a brush, regardless if it is suited for wet hair or not.
Refrain from wearing your hair in very tight ponytails or updos. This puts a tremendous amount of strain on hair which can lead to breaking and even bald spots.
Run, don’t walk away from any hair products containing sulfates, parabens or phthalates. This shit is awful for hair.
Try not to rely too much on tools that use a lot of heat.
Don’t be shy when it comes to conditioning and using hydrating, restorative masks.
Overall, care for your hair and treat it well. You can’t expect to look like Rapunzel if you have the hair care routine of Rumplestiltskin.