You may have heard that frequent brushing is the key to soft, luxurious hair. While partially true, excessive or improper brushing can also contribute to hair loss. This guide explains how to care for your hair to ensure it remains full and healthy-looking. 

How Does Brushing Affect Hair Loss?

Brushing too harshly and too often can cause individual strands to break, which reduces all over thickness. This is especially true for people with fine hair or those whose hair has been damaged by processing. Brushing aggressively or wearing hair in a tight ponytail or bun can also cause traction alopecia, which means hair is being pulled out at the root. If the source of stress continues, traction alopecia may even become permanent. 

What Can You Do to Keep Hair Healthy?

The frequency with which you brush your hair is a major factor to consider. In general, hair should only be brushed twice a day, usually in the morning and at night. When brushing, be aware of how much pressure you're actually putting on the root. Instead of brushing from the root downward, hold a section of your hair just above the tips and work on brushing it. Once the knots are removed, move on to a higher section of hair and work on gently detangling it. 

Does the Type of Brush Make a Difference?

Choosing the right brush can make a huge difference to the thickness and quality of your hair. Thick hair requires a broad-toothed brush or comb, which must be free of cracks and other defects. When heat-styling hair, be sure to use a vented brush to prevent heating from damaging strands and follicles. If you have very long hair, use a wide, paddle-shaped brush to gently remove tangles. 

If you're already dealing with hair loss, it's time to schedule an appointment at New U to discuss your options. Located in Rochester, NY, these hair restoration specialists offer a wide range of effective procedures to boost your confidence. Backed by more than 25 years of experience, they use innovative procedures like laser hair therapy to treat hair loss in both men and women. Schedule a complimentary consultation by calling (585) 272-7320 today. You can also visit the website to learn more about their services.