It’s no secret healthy hair is important. And we textured-haired gals spend countless hours and lots of hard-earned money to ensure it.

Sadly, we know all too well how costly a hair setback can be…and many stem from generations-old beliefs about what our hair can do and what it actually needs.

So, let’s set the records straight. See five of the most popular hair myths we all might have fallen for, over the years. 

1. Our Hair Doesn’t Grow

At first glance, it might seem as if our hair isn’t growing because its inherent shrinkage makes it shorter. In fact, all hair (regardless of race) grows at an average rate of  ¼” to ½” per month.

However, poor practices such as neglect and abuse from chemicals, excessive heat and onoing tension stunt length retention because they cause hair to break at the ends.

2. Our Hair Is Strong

Scientific research has shown that curly and coily strands are extremely delicate. Our hair appears strong, which is why we might have inadvertently handled it roughly.

Natural ingredients, low manipulation and gentle detangling methods are best.

3. Our Hair Needs Protective Styles

Protective styles are wonderfully stylish and convenient, but as a matter of fact, we don’t really need them to maintain healthy hair.

Surely, keeping the ends of our hair covered in a protective style helps to minimize breakage, but only when the style isn't left in for too long. Its improper care leads to dryness, tangles, knots and hair loss.

4. Our Hair Is Hard To Manage

Textured hair is difficult to care for only when we attempt to treat it like straight hair.

Our hair is unique and requires its own set of maintenance and styling methods. We should make time to know them well so our hair can thrive.

5. Washing Our Hair More Than Once Per Week Will Dry It Out

Water is the best source of moisture for our hair, so the notion that frequent washing will cause dryness is totally false.

In fact, product build-up is one of the main culprits that causes dryness, so regular hair washing is healthy.

Stick to mild cleansing methods like water-only hair washing and avoid shampoos that contain ingredients like sulfates, dyes and phthalates. They rob hair of its moisture. Learn more.