12 Do's and Don't for Men With Long Hair

Welcome to the realm of endless hair challenges!

Gone are the days when long, flowing locks were exclusive to women. Now, it's time for men to showcase their long hair too! If the idea of growing out your hair excites you and you're ready to embrace this trend, it's essential to understand what it entails.

Long hair is a different game altogether compared to short, manageable styles. It's not only harder to maintain but also requires more effort to style. Most importantly, it demands proper care and your full attention. Here are some crucial dos and don'ts for men with long hair.

Dos for Men with Long Hair

# Invest in Hair Care Products

First and foremost, great hair needs quality shampoo and conditioner—consider adding a serum as well. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming. A helpful tip is to learn about your hair type, as it will guide you in choosing the right products that suit your needs.

# Familiarize Yourself with Brushes

Brushing your hair is more complex than it seems. Try tackling your hair when it’s tangled, and you’ll quickly see what I mean! To ease this, invest in a detangling brush, which has small, widely spaced bristles to gently untangle knots. Along with this, a wide-toothed comb, a roller brush, and a large hairbrush will simplify your hair care routine.

# Schedule Regular Oil Massages

Oiling your hair is crucial for nourishment. Oils like coconut, almond, and olive are packed with hair-enhancing properties. Since long hair is prone to breakage and damage, regular oiling provides the strength needed to protect against harm.

# Trim Split Ends Regularly

If you’re growing out your hair for the first time, split ends can be a significant issue. Long hair can become dry and brittle, leading to a dull appearance. To combat this, make sure to get your ends trimmed every 2-3 months; you’ll notice a substantial difference.

# Prioritize Sun Protection

Sun damage can strip your hair of its beauty, potentially causing irreversible harm. It’s best to be proactive—avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you must go out, consider wearing a hat to shield your hair.

# Maintain a Healthy Diet

Your diet significantly influences your hair's health. What you consume shows on the outside. Eating junk food and high-sugar items can lead to thinning and damage. For vibrant, thick hair, focus on incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into your meals. Also, try to limit alcohol and smoking, as they are detrimental to both your hair and skin.

Don'ts for Men with Long Hair

# Avoid Washing with Hot Water

Many of us commit the grave mistake of washing our hair with hot water, often without realizing its impact. While hot showers can be relaxing, they strip moisture from your hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and split ends. It’s best to use lukewarm water for washing your hair.

# Don’t Wash Hair Daily

The hair care routine you followed for short hair won’t work for long hair. Washing your hair every day can lead to dryness and exposure to harsh chemicals, weakening hair roots and causing damage. Aim for a wash every 2-3 days; if your hair is very oily, washing every other day is acceptable.

# Stop Rubbing Hair Vigorously After Washing

Rubbing your hair with a towel right after a shower is a poor practice. The friction can cause damage, leading to breakage and split ends. Instead, use an old t-shirt to gently squeeze out excess water and let your hair air dry.

# Don’t Brush Wet Hair

Wet hair is more vulnerable to damage. Brushing when your hair is wet can cause breakage. For healthier, bouncier hair, wait until it dries before brushing.

# Avoid Applying Conditioner to the Roots

Conditioner is formulated with potent chemicals that can weigh down the roots, leading to weakness and hair loss. Apply conditioner starting from the mid-lengths down to the ends, and let it sit for a minute or two before rinsing.

# Limit Hair Products

Hair gels and waxes that worked for short hair might not be suitable for long hair. Overusing styling products can weaken your hair roots and lead to hair loss. Use hair styling products sparingly, as too much can dry out and damage your hair.