Washing wet hair can cause long-term damage-here is what to do instead

For those with a hair care routine, a brush is an essential tool for daily maintenance – but washing your hair while wet can cause more harm than good.

Ordinary habit can permanently weaken hair on a “molecular level”, according to Dr. Mehmet Erdogan, co -founder and hair transplant surgeon at the Hair Clinic in Smile in Istanbul.

This can lead to increased fracture and thinning over time. A 2022 study by the University of Manchester reflected this, finding that moisture can change the hair response to stress.

“When the hair gets wet, it undergoes significant physical changes that can affect its ability to treat stress from washing,” Erdogan said in comments shared with Fox News Digital.

“Water makes the hair shaft swell, stretch the cuticle and makes it more susceptible to fracture.”

Although research has shown that wet hair stretches more than dry hair before breaking, Erdogan explained that this does not mean that the hair is more flexible and more elastic.

“The opposite is true – this damages the internal structure of the protein, leading to weaker hair over time,” he warned.

“The brush is drawn to the swollen, weakened strands, making them stretch beyond their capacity. As they dry, they do not return to their original state and remain damaged at a structural level.”

Ashley Dimatteo, owner of Ashley Lauren Beauty Lounge in Westchester, New York, told Fox News Digital in an interview that the salon has “finally seen” damage from wet hair.

“Wet hair is more fragile, and rough washing can cause fractures,” she said. “But it’s rarely just an issue – hair loss or damage often comes from a combination of factors such as stress, hormones, heat style or chemical treatments.”

Brianna Delvecchio, a color specialist and hairdresser in the Dimatteo salon, agreed that wet hair washing can cause fractures, especially while doing this approximately or with a wrong tool.

Factors such as stress, diet, hormones and excess processing can also play a role in hair damage, she confirmed.

Those who have fine and chemically treated hair – whether colored, allowed or smooth – are “particularly sensitive” to wet washing damage, as their protein structure is “already changed”, noted Erdogan.

Tips to minimize hair damage

Risks do not mean that people have to go through full washing, Delvecchio said, as not washing wet hair can sometimes result in a “knit, mature” mess.

“Washing is necessary – simply do it gently and in the right way,” she advised.

With its salon customers, Dimatteo recommends taking a “soft access” to hair, protecting it from heat, avoid harsh washing and limiting chemical services.

“We also take time to talk about head health, nutrition and lifestyle, because everyone plays a role,” she told Fox News Digital. “And most importantly, you won’t ever feel ashamed or shy to talk to your stylist or local salon. We’re here to help.”

To reduce the risk of hair damage, experts recommend using a wide tooth comb or flexible detail brush.

“Flexible ovens are excellent for detail without much tension,” Delvecchio said. “Strong option for all types of hair, as long as you are still soft and patient.”

The salon owner also suggested using a product left to help soften and hydrate the hair, making it “much easier for combing”.

“The technique matters, too – always start from the bottom and gently work on your way,” Dimatteo advised.

Adding heat to wet hair can “multiply damage”, Erdogan warned.

For those with straight hair, it is best to allow it to dry in part from the air before combing, according to the hair transplant surgeon.

The American Association of the Dermatology Academy also recommends this approach.

Delvecchio advised to go “easily in your hair” in general, especially when it is wet.

“Use heat protectors, reduce heat in your tools, avoid overlapping whitening and continue with clothes,” she suggested.

“Also, apply it regularly (wet or dry) to prevent tangles and fractures,” it continued. “The hair is delicate, but with the right habits, it can stay strong and healthy.”