A hair expect has shared something we should be avoiding (Image: Getty)
A professional hairdresser has released a stern warning to start doing this to prevent greasy , scalp infections, and .
While we all know to wash our makeup brushes every few weeks to prevent acne, change our toothbrushes every six weeks to reduce bacteria growth and clean our clothes once they have been worn, there’s one thing many of us forget to clean – our hairbrush.
Experts at reveal Google searches for ‘should you wash your hairbrush’ have doubled over the past 12 months.
In response to this, LOOKFANTASTIC has collaborated with an expert and professional hairdresser to share advice on how frequently individuals should wash their hair brush to keep their luscious locks healthy.
Margot Thorne, a professional hairdresser, said: “To keep your hair glossy and healthy, you should wash your personal hair brushes weekly with shampoo… and any hair brushes used by professional hairdressers should be washed after every client.
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Avoid sharing a hairbrush (Image: Getty)
“This is because a dirty hairbrush can deposit dirt, bacteria, and old products back onto your strands. This can cause your hair to appear greasier between washes as oil gets trapped in the build-up.
“If you don’t clean your hair brushes, it could lead to a bacterial infection on your scalp, excessive oil, and greasy hair. You wouldn’t share a toothbrush so don’t share your hair brushes!”
This combination of dirt, product, and oil can cause bacteria to grow over time which can’t always be washed away during your hair wash.
If the scalp skin is then broken (i.e. via micro cuts caused by hair tools or via an injury) this increased level of bacteria can lead to scalp infections, skin irritation, and dandruff. Left untreated, this can cause hair loss.
Washing a hairbrush is especially important if someone uses products with heavier consistencies such as hair oils or masks as these can leave an oily residue on the brush, exacerbating these issues.
How to wash a hairbrush:
- Remove any excess hair from the brush bristles.
- Soak the brush in warm water with a mild degreasing soap or white vinegar.
- Once soaked, scrub between the bristles with a toothbrush to remove product build-up.
- Thoroughly dry the brush before using.