By Nick Martin, Owner of Vital Salon, Taunton
In the UK hair industry, there’s no shortage of misinformation. From old wives’ tales passed down through generations to modern clickbait headlines on social media, it’s becoming harder than ever for clients to know what’s actually good for their hair.
As the owner of Vital Salon in Taunton, and someone who works hands-on with clients from across Somerset and the South West, I hear the same hair myths repeated daily in the salon. This blog is here to set the record straight — using real hair science, not internet trends.
Myth 1: “Washing Your Hair Every Day Is Bad” vs “You Must Wash It Daily”
The Truth
There is no universal rule — and this is something we explain to clients every day at our Taunton hair salon.
For most people in the UK, washing hair 2–3 times per week works well, but this should always be adapted to:
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Hair type
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Scalp condition
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Lifestyle (gym, work, environment)
Fine hair often needs washing more regularly to maintain volume, while thicker, curly or Afro-Caribbean hair can comfortably go longer between washes.
Not washing for too long can lead to oily build-up, scalp irritation and even dandruff — something we regularly treat in-salon. Overwashing, however, can dry the scalp and cause excess oil production.
Healthy hair starts with a balanced scalp — something best assessed by a professional stylist.
Myth 2: “If You Don’t Wash Your Hair, It Cleans Itself”
The Truth
Hair does not self-clean.
Leaving hair unwashed causes a build-up of oil, dirt, pollution and dead skin cells. Over time, this can lead to itching, blocked follicles and an unhealthy scalp environment — which directly affects hair quality and growth.
At Vital Salon Taunton, we always prioritise scalp health as the foundation of great hair.
Myth 3: “Trimming Your Hair Makes It Grow Faster”
The Truth
Hair grows from the scalp — not the ends.
Hair is made from keratin, a hardened protein. Cutting it does not influence growth rate. However, regular trims do make hair look thicker, healthier and fuller by preventing split ends and breakage.
This is why we recommend maintenance trims for clients growing their hair — not for growth, but for hair integrity.
Myth 4: “Pluck One Grey Hair and More Will Appear”
The Truth
This is one of the most common myths we hear in UK salons — and it’s simply not true.
Each hair follicle works independently. Plucking one grey hair won’t cause more to grow. That said, repeated plucking can damage follicles, so it’s not something we recommend.
Grey hair is influenced by genetics and melanin production — not tweezers.
Myth 5: “Brush Your Hair 100 Times a Day”
The Truth
Over-brushing causes unnecessary stress and breakage — especially on fine or coloured hair.
Brushing should be done when styling or detangling, not obsessively. Correct brushing helps distribute natural oils and keeps hair manageable, but excess brushing does more harm than good.
This is advice we give daily in our Taunton salon consultations.
Myth 6: “Cold Water Rinses Make Hair Shinier”
The Truth
Hair doesn’t respond to temperature in the way skin does. Shine comes from:
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Cuticle condition
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Product pH balance
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Overall hair health
Cold water rinses don’t magically seal the cuticle. Consistent professional products and correct aftercare do.
Myth 7: “You Need to Keep Changing Hair Products”
The Truth
Hair doesn’t get “used to” products — your hair changes.
Hormones, stress, colour services, lifestyle and even the UK climate all affect your hair and scalp. When a product stops working, it’s usually because your hair’s needs have changed — not because the product has failed.
This is why professional consultations matter more than trends.
Myth 8: “Air-Drying Is Always Better for Hair”
The Truth
Hair is at its weakest when wet.
Leaving hair damp for long periods — especially overnight — can cause hygral fatigue, weakening the hair’s internal structure. This often leads to frizz, breakage and loss of shine.
Using heat correctly, with protection, is often safer than prolonged air-drying.
Myth 9: “The More Conditioner You Use, the Better”
The Truth
More product doesn’t equal better results.
Too much conditioner can leave hair heavy, flat and dull — particularly on fine hair. Conditioner should always be used, but applied correctly:
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Mid-lengths to ends only
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Moderate amounts
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Tailored to your hair type
This is something we demonstrate to clients during appointments at Vital Salon.
Final Thoughts from a Taunton Hair Professional
Haircare myths have been around for decades, but modern hair science — and real salon experience — tells a different story. Healthy hair comes from understanding your individual needs, not following outdated rules.
If you’re unsure what your hair actually needs, speak to a professional stylist who works with hair every day — not social media.
Vital Salon, Taunton
Professional hair services, expert advice, and personalised haircare for clients across Somerset and the UK.
— Nick Martin
Owner, Vital Salon Taunton
UK Hair Educator & Joico Blonde Ambassador
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