The Hair Mistakes I See Every Day

In my 23 years behind the chair and 26 in the industry, I’ve seen these mistakes hundreds of times…

And listen—this is a judgment-free zone. We’ve all done at least one of these. (Some of us have done all five… in the same week… during a full moon.)

The good news? Most hair mistakes are totally fixable with a few simple tweaks. These small changes can make your color last longer, your hair feel healthier, and your style look more “fresh-from-the-salon” between appointments.

Let’s get into it.

Mistake #1: Over-Washing Your Hair

I know, I know. Clean hair feels good. But washing too often is one of the fastest ways to sabotage your hair.

Why it’s a problem

Over-washing strips your scalp of its natural oils. When that happens, your scalp panics and produces more oil to compensate. That’s why hair can feel greasy faster the more you wash it.

It also:

• Fades color quicker

• Dries out ends

• Makes hair harder to style

How often should you actually wash?

• Fine or oily hair: Every 2–3 days

• Medium/thick hair: Every 3–4 days

• Curly, textured, or dry hair: 1–2 times per week

Dry shampoo tips (because yes, it counts)

• Apply it at night, not just in the morning

• Spray at the roots, let it sit for 30 seconds, then massage

• Don’t oversaturate—less is more

🔥Pro tip: Dry shampoo is oil prevention, not just oil control.

Mistake #2: Skipping Heat Protectant

If you use a blow dryer, curling iron, or flat iron without heat protectant… we need to talk.

What heat really does to your hair

Heat above 300°F breaks down the protein structure of your hair. Over time, this causes:

• Split ends

• Breakage

• Dull color

• That “crispy” feeling no deep conditioner can fix

What to use

Look for a heat protectant that:

• Protects up to at least 400°F

• Is lightweight (especially for fine hair)

• Adds moisture without heaviness

How to apply it correctly

• Use on damp hair before blow-drying

• Reapply lightly before hot tools on dry hair

• Comb through for even distribution

🔥Heat protectant isn’t optional—it’s hair insurance. My absolute Favorite is the K18 HeatBounce!

Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Brush for Your Hair Type

Your brush matters way more than you think.

Match the brush to your hair

• Fine hair: Soft bristle or gentle detangling brush

• Thick or curly hair: Wide-tooth comb or flexible bristle brush

• Blowouts: Round brush based on length and volume goals

When to use what

• Wet hair: Wide-tooth comb or wet brush only

• Dry detangling: Start at the ends and work up

• Styling: Choose tools intentionally—don’t just grab whatever’s closest

🔥Brushing wet hair with the wrong tool = breakage city.

Mistake #4: DIY Box Color (Without a Plan)

I get it. It’s tempting. It’s convenient. It’s on sale at Target.

But box color doesn’t know your hair history.

Why it goes wrong

• Box color uses one-size-fits-all pigment

• It often deposits more color than needed

• It layers unevenly over previous color

This leads to:

• Brassy roots

• Dark, muddy ends

• Color that won’t budge later

When to see a professional

• If you want highlights, balayage, or dimension

• If you’re want to rid yourself of your previous use of box color

• If you care about long-term hair health

🔥Sometimes the cheapest option becomes the most expensive fix.

Mistake #5: Cutting Your Own Bangs

The urge is real. The scissors are nearby. The confidence is unearned.

Why bangs are so tricky

STEP AWAY FROM THE SCISSORS

• Hair shrinks when it dries

• One snip turns into ten

• Bangs affect your entire face shape

If you’ve already done it…

• Step away from the scissors

• Style them forward and to the side

• Use a round brush to soften the line

• Book a bang trim ASAP

🔥Bang trims exist for a reason!

Healthy hair starts at home, but magic happens in the chair. So please seek a professional that fits your style, budget, and vibe before attempting to do it yourself at home!!