While hair styling gels can give your hair the look you want, you should be aware of their possible adverse effects on hair health.
These gels temporarily maintain the condition of your hair, but long-term and excessive use of them have many harmful effects on hair health.
1. Hair drying
One of the primary concerns about using these gels is its drying effect on the hair.
Many styling gels contain alcohol as a key ingredient, which can strip hair of its natural moisture and make it dry and brittle.
Continuous use of alcohol-based conditioning gels leads to long-term damage to the hair shaft, resulting in the weakening of strands and their opaque appearance.
2. Accumulation of substances on the head
Regular use of these gels leads to product accumulation on the scalp and hair strands.
This build-up occurs when gel residue accumulates over time, weighing the hair down and making it look dull and lifeless.
Also, product buildup clogs hair follicles, preventing healthy hair growth and leading to problems like dandruff.
3. Scalp irritation
Some ingredients in the gel, such as fragrances or preservatives, may irritate the scalp.
Long-term use of these gels leads to symptoms such as itching and redness.
4. Hair loss
Excessive use of these gels, especially when combined with the friction of tools such as brushes or combs, over time causes hair loss and baldness.
Hair follicles become weak and lead to increased shedding and thinning of hair strands.
5. Chemical damage
Some of these gels contain chemicals such as parabens or sulfates that damage the hair structure.
These chemicals strip hair of its natural oils, leaving it dry, brittle and more prone to breakage.