Tangles and Damage

Keeping your hair pulled back and close to your head seems to be the popular tip. Although this seems obvious, there are others who prefer to allow their hair to blow in the wind. There are pros and cons to both. Everyone has different lengths, textures and thicknesses. Review the advice below and use what is best for your style.

• Short to shoulder length styles work best without being pulled back. This is only the case if you don't have a lot of texture, a perm or curls. The theory is that the wind will try and tangle strands from your face toward the back. If the tangle that starts in the front is stopped and not allowed to work itself free as it travels to the back, then a nest will occur. If you get tangles with short or shoulder length styles, keep reading.
• Use products! Gel, mousse, sprays, etc. protect your "do" from multiple types of damage. Sun, wind, dirt and tangles. It also makes it much easier to remove tangles once the products are washed out.
• Avoid combing after your ride. This will cause breakage and damage. Instead, wait until you wash your hair. If you don't think you can wait, use your fingers to gently remove any tangles and then only use a wide-tooth comb.
• Never use a brush on wet hair. This causes stretching and damage which can lead to split ends and fly-aways. Yes, we'll say it again, use a quality wide-tooth comb instead.
• Full of tangles? Thinking of getting the scissors? Wait! Head to the shower and grab your comb. Conditioner at this point is your best friend. Slather on the conditioner and use your fingers to gently pull and pick through the tangles. When you're satisfied with what you can get out, then use the comb. Apply more conditioner as you go. Take it slow and be gentle! Unfortunately if you need to use this advice, you've already got damage. Avoid further damage if possible. For future use, buy a large inexpensive bottle of conditioner to keep on hand for this purpose.
• Avoid sun damage. The sun can cause drying and make your hair brittle and prone to breakage. Some products on the market now contain sunscreens. Look for shampoos, sprays, gels, etc. that contain an SPF rating on the bottle.
• Keep it trimmed. Stylist recommend getting your hair trimmed at least once every 6 weeks. This will keep the split ends away and remove any damage that has occured while riding.

Reprinted from http://www.thunderrosealley.com.

By Crystal G.

Crystal G., aka G, is the founder of Ride Wide Open.  RWO's purpose is to bring the local motorcycle and car clubs together, provide a centralized location for the many rides and events happening in Central PA and beyond, as well as provide a vehicle for these groups to get their information out to our fellow riders and enthusiasts of street bikes, dirt bikes, cars, bands, and more for FREE. In her spare time, she enjoys riding her own bike, a Harley Davidson Sportster 1200 Custom, or with her hubby on his Victory Jackpot, and spending time with her kiddos.