Take our quiz, then check the answers to be sure you’ve got your hair care knowledge locked down.
1. Which of the following hairstyles can be damaging?
a. a bun
b. braids
c. a tight ponytail
d. all of the above
e. none of the above
2. True or false: “100 strokes of your brush” is good for your hair.
3. You shed more hair when you’ve
a. been stressed
b. given birth
c. lost weight
d. had an operation
e. been sick
f. all of the above
g. three of the above
h. none of the above
4. The best way to dry your hair is to
a. blow-dry
b. air-dry
c. towel-dry
5. The best type of shower for your hair is
a. hot and quick
b. hot and long
c. lukewarm and quick
d. lukewarm and long
6. After a shower, you should detangle your hair with
a. a brush
b. a comb
c. your fingers
7. How often should you shower?
a. depends on your hair and scalp type
b. every day
c. every other day
d. once a week or less
8. True or false: Conditioner can help protect hair from UV ray damage.
9. Which of these styling tools is the least damaging for hair?
a. curlers
b. straightening iron
c. blow dryer
Answers
1. d. all of the above: Wearing your hair back in a tight hairstyle can pull hair, damaging follicles and even causing hair loss. Try looser styles or wear your hair down.
2. False: This is a very outdated myth. You only need to brush your hair when styling.
3. f. all of the above: This shows how susceptible our hair is to the stresses we go through. But as we adjust or recover, so does our hair. If you’re concerned about unexplained hair loss, see your health care practitioner.
4. b. air-dry: Towel-drying can damage hair and create split ends, and blow-drying is also damaging. If possible, let your hair air-dry or wrap your head in a towel.
5. c. lukewarm and quick: Although a hot shower can feel great on your skin, it can also strip away hair’s naturally protective oils. Stick to lukewarm water instead, and don’t shower for longer than you have to—it’s better for the planet, too!
6. b. a comb: Never brush your hair when it’s wet, as you’ll run the risk of damage and split ends. A wide tooth comb will effectively detangle and cause less breakage. Those with curly hair should steer clear of brushes altogether.
7. a. depends on your hair and scalp type: If your hair is prone to oiliness or dandruff, it can be washed once a day; other than that, there’s no need to wash so often. Many of us wash too often, leading to dry and possibly damaged hair. In fact, some people who are very prone to dry skin likely only need to shampoo once a week or less.
8. True: Conditioner also returns important moisture to hair, increases shine and helps strengthen damaged hair.
9. c. blow dryer: Hot tools that come into direct contact with hair are more damaging than those that don’t. To minimize damage from heat styling, use these tools as infrequently as possible and at their lowest setting.