What happens when you comb wet hair?

|THE DEN|

Not brushing or combing damp hair is one of the most important hair care rules. With the monsoon season here, it's normal to get caught in an unexpected downpour, but if you've been searching for advice on how to deal with wet hair all day, assistance is at hand. Every question you've ever had about wet hair is answered by a hair expert, along with advice on how to get through the season without causing more hair to fall out.

What happens when you comb wet hair?

To begin with, damp hair can be combed, but only with the proper technique and instruments will you be able to minimise breakage. Schwarzkopf Professional's Bony Sasidharan, a hair expert, adds, "There are hydrogen connections within the hair structure that briefly break when hair is wet, making the hair more delicate and susceptible to damage while wet. The issue is made worse by the fact that hair is more elastic when it is wet and stretches when it is combed, but it cannot return to its original shape. Using a towel to dry your hair or using a rough comb can severely damage your hair. He thinks that after using a leave-in spray or finishing oil, wet hair needs to be very thorough and run through a wide-toothed comb or paddle brush.

How to comb damp hair?

If you want to control damp hair, whether it is after a shower or you got caught in the rain, having the correct tools can make all the difference. "The obvious choice for detangling is a paddle brush or a wide-toothed carbon fibre comb. Start by lightly combing over the tips, then move on to the mid-lengths, then the roots. Remember to avoid tightening the knots by combing from the roots to the tips, as this will cause more breakage.