Using hair products seems simple, but small mistakes can lead to bad hair days, product buildup, or even damage. Many men don’t realize they’re using their pomades, gels, and sprays incorrectly. Here are 13 common hair product mistakes to avoid for better styling results.
1. Using Too Much Product
One of the most common mistakes people make with hair products is using too much. While it might seem like more product will produce better results, the truth is quite the opposite. Overloading your hair with pomades, gels, or creams can lead to a greasy, weighed-down appearance that lacks natural movement. Excess product often causes hair to lose its volume and flexibility, leading to stiffness or an unnatural, crunchy texture that’s the opposite of what most people want to achieve.
Additionally, using too much product doesn’t only affect your style—it wastes money and causes unnecessary buildup, which can be difficult to wash out properly over time. This buildup may result in flaky residue that looks similar to dandruff, contributing to an unkempt appearance and potentially clogging your scalp’s pores, which could hinder hair and scalp health.
Experts recommend sticking to a dime-sized amount of product as a general guideline, though the exact quantity can vary depending on the hair length, thickness, and texture. For shorter hair, even less than a dime-sized amount might be sufficient, while for longer or thicker hair, you might need to slightly increase the amount.
Start small and gradually add more if necessary—it’s much easier to build up than to remove excess once it’s applied. Taking time to thoroughly spread the product across your palms before applying it ensures even distribution and prevents clumps from forming in specific areas. Ultimately, using the correct amount is key to a well-groomed, natural look without product overload.
2. Applying to Dry Hair
Another crucial mistake is applying hair products to dry hair. Although this might seem convenient, most styling products are designed to work with damp hair for optimal results. When applied to completely dry hair, products can be harder to distribute evenly, leading to clumps or uneven coverage that detracts from the overall style. Dry hair tends to absorb product unevenly, which can make it difficult to achieve the sleekness, texture, or hold you’re looking for, not to mention that it minimizes the longevity of your hairstyle throughout the day.
Professionals at a Barbershop in New York emphasize the importance of applying products when hair is towel-dried but not soaking wet. After you shower, gently pat your hair with a towel to remove excess water—hair should be damp, not dripping.
Damp hair helps styling products spread more evenly, as the added moisture aids in distribution, making it easier for the product to coat strands uniformly. This approach also helps maximize the product’s effectiveness—whether it’s a lightweight mousse, a defining cream, or a strong-hold gel—ensuring you achieve the intended results.
Furthermore, applying products to damp hair reduces the chance of buildup, as you’re likely to use less product overall since it spreads more easily. Following this technique can also enhance texture and shine, allowing for a polished and professional finish. Take it from the experts—starting with damp hair can make all the difference in achieving a polished, long-lasting style.
3. Skipping Heat Protectant Before Styling
Blow-drying or using hot tools without protection is one of the most common mistakes that can significantly harm your hair over time. When you subject your strands to high heat without a protective barrier, the natural moisture within your hair is stripped away. This leads to dryness, split ends, and increased susceptibility to breakage. Beyond the visible damage, heat can also weaken the inner structure of the hair, leaving it fragile and prone to long-term issues. Heat protectants are designed to shield your hair by creating a protective layer that reduces the impact of extreme temperatures. They often contain ingredients such as silicones, keratin, or proteins that coat the hair shaft to lock in moisture and prevent vital elements from evaporating under heat.
Applying a heat protectant spray, cream, or serum should always be the first step before you pick up your blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron. Even if you’re only using moderate heat, the damage can accumulate over time, leading to dull and lifeless hair. Heat protectants also enhance the performance of your hot tools, helping you achieve sleeker, smoother results with less risk of damage. To maximize the effectiveness of your heat protectant, apply it evenly from root to tip on damp hair and give it a few moments to absorb. For those who frequently use heat-styling tools, selecting a product with a high heat-resistant threshold, generally up to 450°F, ensures optimal protection for those high-temperature settings. Skipping this crucial step may save time in the short term, but it can result in costly damage and repair treatments over the long haul. Using heat protectant is not optional—it’s an essential part of a thorough and healthy hair care routine.
4. Not Adjusting Products for Summer Grooming Needs
Your hair care routine needs to adapt as the seasons change, and summer is no exception. One of the biggest mistakes people make during the warmer months is failing to adjust their grooming products to accommodate the unique conditions brought on by heat, humidity, and increased sweat. The products that served you well during winter—like heavy creams, oil-based serums, or thick pomades—tend to weigh hair down in the summer, leaving it looking greasy, limp, or even exacerbating scalp issues.
Summer grooming requires investing in lighter, water-based formulas that work more harmoniously with the season’s challenges. For instance, water-based styling gels or mousses offer excellent hold without the heavy residue, helping you maintain a fresh, clean look even on the hottest days. Similarly, lightweight leave-in conditioners can replace heavier counterparts to provide hydration without weighing your hair down. This shift can be particularly important for those with oily or fine hair, as overloading on rich products during summer can lead to buildup and a greasy appearance.
Humidity is another factor to consider carefully. During summer, it can cause your hair to frizz or lose its shape entirely. Anti-humidity creams and sprays are lifesavers, as they help keep your hair smooth and manageable while fortifying it against excessive moisture. Additionally, products that contain UV filters are crucial during this season, as they shield the hair and scalp from the sun’s harmful rays, preventing dryness and discoloration. For those who are consistently active in summer—whether due to sports or outdoor activities—using clarifying shampoos and scalp-refreshing toners can help combat sweat buildup and maintain scalp health.
Summer is a time to feel confident and carefree, and adjusting your grooming products to suit this season’s demands ensures your hair remains vibrant, manageable, and protected. Taking a tailored approach to your summer routine not only keeps your hair looking great but also minimizes the risk of longer-term damage caused by improper care during hot and humid conditions. Whether it’s a texturizing spray for beach waves or a light serum for smoothness, your summer hair care should always reflect the unique needs of the season.
5. Using Shampoo Too Often
One of the most common mistakes in hair care is over-shampooing. While it may seem like washing your hair daily is the key to keeping it clean and fresh, doing so can actually strip your hair of its natural oils, which are essential for maintaining a healthy scalp and vibrant strands. Our scalp produces sebum, a natural oil that acts as a protective barrier, keeping the hair nourished and hydrated. When you shampoo excessively, you disrupt this balance, leading to dryness, brittleness, and an increased likelihood of breakage or split ends.
For most hair types, a gentle routine of washing two to three times per week is ideal. This frequency allows the scalp to regulate oil production naturally and maintains a moisture balance that supports healthy hair growth. If you’re concerned about your hair feeling dirty or greasy between washes, dry shampoos can be a fantastic alternative. These products absorb excess oil at the roots, refreshing your hair and adding volume without requiring water.
It’s also worth noting that the type of shampoo you use plays an important role in reducing damage and maintaining optimal scalp health. Look for products free from harsh sulfates, as these can be overly drying. Instead, choose cleansing agents that include nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, or coconut oil. These not only cleanse but also replenish moisture during the washing process. Being mindful of your shampooing habits and selecting the right products are essential steps toward promoting healthier, shinier, and more resilient hair.
6. Choosing the Wrong Product Type
Finding the right styling product for your hair goes beyond just picking a well-known brand or high-priced option. Choosing the wrong product type can negatively affect your styling outcomes as well as your hair’s overall health. It’s essential to align products with your hair type, texture, and desired looks to achieve the results you truly want. For instance, if you’re looking to create sleek, polished hairstyles, gels or creams provide the control and shine needed to tame flyaways and keep strands in place. On the other hand, if you prefer a matte, textured style, clays, pastes, or sea salt sprays are fantastic for building volume and enhancing movement.
One common misconception is that the best styling products always come with a hefty price tag. This isn’t necessarily true. There are numerous high-quality, affordable options available that perform exceptionally well without the need for significant financial investment. Many drugstore brands now offer a range of professional-grade products with formulations suited to a variety of styling goals and hair types. It’s all about understanding the ingredients and experimenting to find what works for you.
Another key consideration is avoiding overloading your hair with too much product. Even when using high-quality solutions, excess application can weigh down your hair, make it greasy, and hinder its ability to hold a natural look. Always start with a small amount and build as needed. Also, take the time to thoroughly rinse styling products out at the end of the day to avoid buildup that can make your hair look dull and clog your scalp’s pores.
Ultimately, the key to successful hair styling is education and exploration. Affordable styling products that match your needs can deliver outstanding, salon-worthy results. Don’t rush into trends or expensive recommendations without carefully considering what is right for your hair type and your lifestyle.
7. Applying Styling Products to Dirty Hair
One of the most common mistakes when it comes to hair styling is applying products to hair that hasn’t been properly cleaned. When hair is dirty, it is often coated with natural oils, residue from previous products, and environmental pollutants. These substances act as a barrier, preventing styling products from adhering properly to the hair strands. This layer of grime can dilute the effectiveness of products, leading to weak hold, uneven application, and a lackluster finish.
Styling products are specifically formulated to work on clean hair, where they can penetrate and coat strands evenly without interference. Clean hair allows for product distribution that enhances shine, creates volume, and ensures a long-lasting hold. Using any styling product on unwashed hair not only impacts its performance but can also weigh down your hair and leave it looking greasy or flat.
To avoid this, always start your styling routine with a thorough cleanse. Use a shampoo that matches your hair type—whether it’s clarifying for oily hair, hydrating for dry strands, or balancing for normal hair. Make sure to rinse out any conditioner or treatment completely, as leftover residue can also impact styling results. After cleansing, towel dry your hair gently to remove excess water while leaving it slightly damp; this is often the ideal state for applying many products like gels, mousses, and creams.
For those rushed mornings when washing your hair isn’t an option, consider a high-quality dry shampoo to refresh your roots and remove excess oil. However, it’s essential to remember that dry shampoo is not a substitute for a full cleanse and should only be used as a temporary solution. By prioritizing clean hair, you’ll maximize the effect of your styling products and achieve a polished, professional finish every time.
8. Not Consulting a Barber for Product Advice
When it comes to choosing the best styling products for your hair, one key resource that is often overlooked is professional advice from a barber. Particularly in a vibrant metropolis like New York, where diverse hair textures and styles flourish, barbers hold a wealth of knowledge that can transform your approach to hair care and styling. A professional barber has not only been trained to work with different hair types but also has firsthand experience with the common challenges their clients face.
One of the major benefits of consulting a barber in New York is their understanding of local water quality and how it can affect your hair. For example, hard water, often found in certain areas, can leave mineral deposits in your hair, making it harder to achieve the desired style. Your barber can recommend clarifying shampoos or conditioners specifically designed to combat hard water effects. They can also help identify products that match the moisture levels your hair needs in an urban environment, which can often be influenced by pollution, humidity, and other environmental factors.
Additionally, a barber can assess your individual hair type, from texture and thickness to dry or oily tendencies, and suggest products tailored to your needs. If you’ve damaged your hair with coloring treatments or heat styling, they might recommend restorative creams or serums that target repair. Alternatively, if you’ve been struggling with issues like frizz, they might point you toward products with specific oils or silicones for better management. Your barber’s expertise ensures you’re investing in solutions that actually work, saving you time and money on trial-and-error purchases.
Barbers can also provide styling tips alongside product recommendations. For instance, the way you apply pomade or gel can greatly influence your final look, whether you’re aiming for a slick back, a textured quiff, or a natural matte finish. A quick visit to a barber can clear up these uncertainties and empower you to recreate salon-level results at home.
Think of your local barber as a trusted ally in your grooming routine. Instead of turning to generic online advice or blindly picking up the latest trending product, rely on their professional insight to curate a routine that delivers results. Consulting a barber in New York isn’t just about maintaining the perfect cut; it’s about gaining access to personalized care that enhances your confidence and elevates your overall style game.
9. Rubbing Hair Dry with a Towel
One of the most common mistakes people make after washing their hair is aggressively rubbing it dry with a towel. While this might seem like the quickest way to get rid of excess water, it can be incredibly damaging to your hair strands. The friction caused by rubbing not only roughs up the hair cuticle, leading to frizz and the dreaded “flyaway” look, but it also weakens the hair and can cause breakage over time.
Hair is at its most vulnerable when it’s wet because the cuticle, which protects the inner layers, is slightly raised and prone to damage. Instead of rubbing, use a microfiber towel or an old, soft t-shirt to gently squeeze and blot the moisture out of your hair. This method minimizes friction and protects your hair’s texture and structure.
Microfiber towels, in particular, are highly absorbent and gentle, allowing you to wick away water quickly without compromising the health of your hair. Remember, patience is key when drying your hair. Allowing it to air-dry partially after gently squeezing out excess water can also help preserve its natural shine and softness.
10. Using Hairspray Before Other Products
Hairspray is a popular product for adding hold and keeping hairstyles in place, but using it incorrectly can result in a sticky, uneven mess. A frequent error is applying hairspray before other styling products such as creams, serums, or gels. Hairspray is designed to be the finishing touch in your hair care routine because it creates a layer of hold that locks everything into place.
When applied too early, it interferes with the application of other products, causing them to sit unevenly on the hair strand and reducing their effectiveness. Additionally, layering creams or gels over hairspray can cause clumping, stiffness, and an unnatural finish. To use hairspray properly, wait until you’ve completed the rest of your styling routine.
First, apply heat protectants, serums, or mousse, then style your hair as desired. Once you’re done, lightly mist the hairspray over your hair, holding the can at least 8-10 inches away to ensure even distribution. This will give your style long-lasting hold without compromising the texture or appearance of your hair.
11. Not Washing Out Product Before Bed
Leaving styling products in your hair overnight might seem harmless, but it can lead to a host of problems for both your hair and scalp. Heavy products like gels, waxes, and pomades are designed for temporary use throughout the day, and when left in overnight, they can clog your hair follicles. This can inhibit healthy hair growth and, in some cases, lead to scalp irritation or dandruff.
Beyond the biological effects, leaving these products in can also stain your pillowcases, leading to residue buildup over time that is both unhygienic and difficult to clean. To prevent these issues, make it a habit to wash out any heavy products from your hair before going to bed.
A gentle shampoo can effectively remove the buildup without stripping your hair of natural oils. If you’re short on time, even rinsing with warm water can help loosen and remove a significant amount of product. Following up with a lightweight conditioner can restore hydration and keep your hair soft and manageable. By rinsing out products before bed, you maintain a healthier scalp environment and keep your hair looking its best day after day.
12. Using Expired Products
Using expired hair products can be more harmful than you might think. Over time, hair care products lose their effectiveness, meaning they may no longer deliver the results you expect or need. For instance, expired shampoos may not cleanse as thoroughly, and old styling products like gels or mousses might lose their hold. Even worse, products that sit unused for too long can develop harmful bacteria or fungi due to exposure to air and moisture over time. Applying these contaminated products to your hair and scalp can lead to irritation, infections, or even damage your hair’s natural balance.
To avoid these risks, it’s crucial to check expiration dates on your hair care items and replace them regularly. A good rule of thumb is to replace most hair products every 6 to 12 months, depending on their packaging and storage conditions. Products that come in jars or tubs, where hands often come into contact with the formula, may expire faster than products with pump or squeeze dispensers. To extend the shelf life of your products, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or excess humidity. Regularly decluttering your hair care stash and discarding expired products not only keeps you safe but also ensures your hair receives the best care possible.
13. Ignoring Hair Type When Selecting Products
Choosing hair products without considering your hair type can lead to frustrating results. Not all hair is the same, and different textures, thicknesses, and conditions require tailored care. For example, people with fine hair should opt for lightweight formulas that won’t weigh their hair down. A heavy conditioner or thick styling cream on fine hair can leave it limp, greasy, and difficult to style. On the other hand, individuals with thick or coarse hair often need richer, more nourishing formulas that provide moisture and control. Products designed for finer hair won’t offer enough hydration or hold for these hair types, leaving the hair dry, frizzy, or unmanageable.
Understanding your hair type is the first step to finding the right products. Consider whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, as each texture has different needs. For example, curls and coils often benefit from products that emphasize moisture retention, such as hair creams and oils, while straight hair may perform better with volumizing mousses or sprays. Additionally, factor in specific scalp concerns such as dryness, oiliness, or sensitivity to ensure your chosen product works for your overall hair health. Matching products to your hair’s unique requirements not only simplifies styling but also promotes healthier, more vibrant locks over time.
Conclusion
Proper product use makes styling easier and keeps hair healthy. Small changes like using the right amount or consulting a barber for recommendations can transform hair routines. Avoid these mistakes to get the most from every product.
