10 Hair Habits Every Stylist Wishes You Knew (But We're Too Polite to Say)

Okay, real talk. After fifteen years behind the chair at The Warehouse Salon, I've learned that gorgeous hair isn't magic, it's just good habits. And honestly? There are some things we stylists see every day that make us want to stage interventions.

So here's me, spilling the tea on what really keeps your hair healthy. Consider this your friendly neighborhood stylist's survival guide.

1. Stop Treating Trims Like the Enemy

I get it, you're growing your hair out, and every millimeter counts. But here's the thing: I've watched clients cling to damaged ends for months, only to lose twice as much length when those splits finally travel up the shaft. It's heartbreaking, honestly.

Trust me on this one. Come in every 6-8 weeks for a quick trim. Your future self (and your hair) will thank you.

2. Your Hair Is Thirsty (And It's Not Subtle About It)

Dry hair breaks. Period. I see so many clients using the cheapest conditioner they can find, then wondering why their hair feels like straw. Look, I'm not saying you need to spend your mortgage payment on products, but investing in a decent conditioner is non-negotiable.

And that weekly deep mask? Yeah, that's not optional either. Your hair is literally begging for moisture.

3. Heat Protectant Isn't a Suggestion

This is where I get a little worked up. Every single day, I see heat damage that could've been prevented with a $12 bottle of heat protectant. Every. Single. Day.

If you're going to use hot tools, and let's be honest, most of us are, please use protection. It's like wearing sunscreen for your hair. Would you sunbathe without SPF? Then don't blow-dry without heat protectant.

4. Your Scalp Doesn't Need Daily Shampooing (Promise)

Here's something that might blow your mind: washing your hair every day is probably making it worse. Your scalp produces natural oils for a reason, they're not the enemy.

I've had clients switch to washing every other day (or even every third day) and watch their hair transform. Dry shampoo exists for a reason, people. Use it.

5. Cool Water Is Your Hair's Best Friend

I know, I know. Hot showers feel amazing, especially on a cold morning. But that scalding water is roughing up your hair cuticle like sandpaper.

Try this: shampoo and condition with warm water, then blast your hair with cool water at the end. Just for 30 seconds. Your hair will be smoother, shinier, and way less frizzy. It's such a simple change, but the results are incredible.

6. Brushing Wet Hair Is a Crime Against Humanity

Okay, maybe that's dramatic. But seriously, wet hair is vulnerable hair. It stretches, it snaps, it breaks in ways that make me want to cry.

Start at the ends and work your way up. Use a wide-tooth comb or a detangling brush designed for wet hair. Your strands will stay intact, and you'll lose way less hair in the process.

7. Your Pillowcase Is Sabotaging Your Blowout

Cotton pillowcases create friction. Friction creates frizz and breakage. It's basic physics.

I tell all my clients to switch to silk or satin pillowcases. Not only will your hair thank you, but your blowouts will last an extra day or two. It's like getting more bang for your styling buck.

8. Color-Treated Hair Needs Special Treatment (Sorry)

If you color your hair, and let's face it, most of us do something to change our natural color, you need color-safe products. Regular shampoo strips color faster than you'd think.

Also, please don't wait until your roots are screaming for attention. Maintenance appointments exist for a reason. Trust your stylist's timeline recommendations.

9. You Can't Out-Product a Bad Diet

This might sting a little, but what you eat shows up in your hair. I can usually tell when a client has been stressed or eating poorly just by looking at their hair quality.

Protein, healthy fats, leafy greens, they all matter. And water! Please drink water. Dehydrated bodies grow dehydrated hair.

10. Find Your Hair Person (And Stick With Them)

The best hair advice I can give you? Find a stylist you trust and build a relationship. We notice changes in your hair's condition, we remember what works for you, and we genuinely want you to love your hair.

Don't salon-hop just to save twenty bucks. Consistency pays off in the long run.

The Bottom Line

Look, I'm not trying to complicate your life here. These habits become second nature once you start doing them. And the payoff? Hair that actually cooperates with you instead of against you.

If you're in the DeLand area and want someone in your corner who actually cares about your hair health (not just the latest trend), come see us at The Warehouse Salon. We're at 1782 S Woodland Blvd, right near campus if you know the area.

Give us a call at (386) 279-0626, or swing by when you're ready to give your hair the TLC it deserves.

Because here's what I've learned after all these years: great hair isn't luck. It's just showing up consistently for yourself, one small habit at a time.