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Are hot showers damaging your hair?

  • 2 min read

Are hot showers damaging your hair?

There's no denying the sheer bliss of a hot shower on a frosty winter's day. But wait!

Before you crank up that hot water knob, there's something you need to know.

Those scalding hot droplets could be having a significant impact on your hair (and your scalp!).

But first, a quick lil’ hair refresher

Your hair is composed of three layers: the medulla, cortex, and cuticle. The outermost layer, the cuticle, serves as your hair's primary line of defence, safeguarding the inner layers and imparting that lustrous shine we all love.

Here’s the not-so-fun part. Hot water can cause the cuticle to lift, exposing the inner layers. Not only does this mess with the protective layers of the cuticle, but it also plays the villain with the natural oils your scalp produces. 

These natural oils (or “sebum“) protect your hair and scalp, providing moisture, and shine. Hot water, though, can strip away these essential oils, leaving your hair dry, brittle, and undernourished, and setting the scene for a snowstorm of flaky skin on your scalp.

The frizzy aftermath

With the protective oils stripped away and the cuticle layers compromised, your hair becomes vulnerable. It tends to absorb moisture from the surrounding air, resulting in frizz. Your scalp, devoid of its natural oils, can become dry, leading to flakiness and dandruff, and even *gasp* hair loss. That's not exactly the winter hair transformation we're all hoping for!

Finding the perfect balance

Does this mean we shiver our way through icy cold showers? Not at all. There's a solution that’s just right: lukewarm water. It provides the warmth you crave while preserving your hair's health. Think: shinier, softer, and more manageable tresses.

So, while a hot shower on a cold day might be tempting, the cost to your hair and scalp health might just be too steep. Switch to lukewarm showers this winter and give your hair the care it deserves. After all, a little tweak in your shower routine can go a long way in ensuring fabulous winter locks. 

Winter-friendly haircare

Our ‘Respect My Roots’ Shampoo and Conditioner duo not only replenishes lost moisture and helps repair damaged hair, but it’s ideal for all hair types, especially brittle or dry hair.

The plant-powered formulas help seal the hair cuticle to prevent moisture loss and provide humidity control while helping to detangle and improve manageability. It even has in-built heat protection, for when things get a little steamy.

No more static split ends or tight, itchy scalps!

'Respect My Roots' Natural Shampoo and Conditioner Bundle

$55.90
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