Hair care begins long before the dryer and ends long after the shampoo. Most of us pay attention to products, masks or treatments, but there is a key gesture that is often overlooked: how we treat our hair right after washing it.
After showering, the hair is more fragile than ever. Moisture opens the cuticle and weakens the hair fiber, making it more sensitive to friction, heat and styling. Therefore, the minutes following washing can make the difference between a healthy mane and a brittle one.
The most common mistake is wrapping it in a terrycloth towel or rubbing it vigorously to remove moisture. This automatic gesture can cause breakage, frizz, and even loss of shine. Instead, the ideal approach is to remove the excess water with a microfiber towel or a soft cotton T-shirt, pressing gently and without dragging
Only then should detangling be done, and always with a wide-tooth and flexible brush. This is where Dr. Alba Gómez, director of IMR’s Hair Medicine Unit, insists: «There should be a pre-wash brushing, dry, and never force the tugs with wet hair to avoid fractures».
The specialist also emphasizes the importance of controlling heat. «We must avoid high temperatures when using hairdryers and keep them at a prudent distance. If we use straighteners or curlers, it is important to always apply thermal protectants and not overuse them», she explains. She also recommends evaluating tools that combine heat and steam, since the associated humidity reduces the thermal impact on the hair fiber.
Hair care, the doctor reminds, is not limited to the aesthetic appearance of the hair. «We must pay attention to the roots, the scalp and the hair shafts. All three are important and must stay healthy. The skin of the scalp should be clean, free of irritation or residue, and protected from sun damage».
Phyto Phytophanere vitamins for hair and nails by Phyto.
She also emphasizes the use of nutricosmetics that can help us improve hair quality at certain times of the year. The doctor recommends resuming haircare routines, starting a capillary nutricosmetic with minerals, vitamins and essential amino acids to help the metabolism of the new hair growth cycles that begin the growth phase, and increasing the use of hydrating products for the hair fiber.
Dr. Alba Gómez’s Expert Trick: A Personalized Routine
Dr. Alba Gómez, director of the IMR Hair Medicine Unit, explains it clearly: «There should be a pre-wash brushing, dry, and never force the tugs with wet hair to avoid fractures». That small habit change can make a big difference.
Beter natural brush.
For those with straight and fine hair, the risk of breakage is even higher. “Straight hair tends to tangle easily, and styling without preparation can fracture the fiber”, warns the specialist. That is why she recommends incorporating a conditioner after washing, to facilitate detangling and protect the surface of the hair.
Acondicionador Renforcateur Genesis de Kérastase.
Her personal trick is simple and effective: «I always use a conditioner after washing, because straight hair tends to tangle and styling can cause fractures». This seemingly minimal gesture reduces mechanical damage and preserves the hair’s natural shine.
