Hair: 'Women must ditch two popular updo styles that cause breakage and damage,' says celebrity hairstylist

Celebrity hairstylist spoke exclusively to GB News

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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 12/01/2025

- 07:00

GB News is speaking to experts about the best measures to achieve your beauty goals. This week, two celebrity hairstylists revealed how women can elevate their locks at home

A trip to the salon can work wonders for your strands, but for more sustainable - and cheaper - results, updating your hair care practices at home can be a game-changer.

GB News spoke exclusively to two celebrity hairstylists about how women can achieve "better hair" - think voluminous, long and luscious.


Being mindful of the impact of your hairstyle is key. Celebrity hairstylist Jess Elbaum warned ladies against two common looks that may be causing more harm than good.

While your favourite updos may be quick and easy, they could be detrimental to your mane over time.

Woman tying her hair in ponytail

'Avoid tight ponytails or buns that can cause breakage, especially at the hairline'

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Jess advised: "Avoid tight ponytails or buns that can cause breakage, especially at the hairline."

The British Skin Foundation warned: "Traction alopecia is a type of hair loss caused by constant pulling (traction). The pulling is usually on some hairs more than others, leading to the development of bald patches. Often, this type of alopecia is due to the hairs being pulled repeatedly by tight hairstyles."

To avoid this, it's best to go for "protective hairstyles such as loose braids or buns to minimise tension on your strands", the hairstylist recommended.

As for what to use to tie your hair up, ladies should always go for scrunchies or soft hair ties instead of elastic bands to "reduce stress on the hair", she warned.

Utilising hair oil is also an effective strategy for sensational strands. Jess said: "Massage hair oil into your scalp in circular motions to boost blood circulation and nourish roots, and leave it on for at least an hour - or overnight - for deeper absorption before washing it out for healthier, shinier hair."

Finding the right washing technique is also essential for gorgeous hair - and you're probably doing it wrong.

The hairstylist instructed: "Use lukewarm water to wash your hair as hot water can strip it of natural oils, leaving it dry and brittle.

"Choose a nourishing shampoo like HASK Argan Oil Repairing Shampoo, known for its ability to cleanse without over-drying, and follow with HASK Argan Oil Repairing Conditioner, which deeply hydrates and strengthens.

"Avoid overwashing - two to three times a week is ideal for most hair types. Massage your scalp gently to improve circulation and encourage healthy growth."

As for conditioner, make sure to avoid the mistake that causes hair loss and dandruff.

A second celebrity hairstylist, Nicholas James, weighed in on the best practices for better hair. While a trip to the salon can reap major results, he agreed that a great barnet starts at home.


The expert told GB News: "I believe that the key to healthy hair is to elevate your hair care. From how often you wash your hair to the products you're using, you might not think it but this will make a massive difference to your hair's health and appearance."

Like Jess, Nicholas is not an advocate for cleansing the hair more than necessary. He said: "When it comes to washing your hair, doing this too frequently can strip it of its natural oils, leading to damaged, dull and dehydrated hair - and nobody wants that."

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Woman washing her hair

'Avoid overwashing - two to three times a week is ideal for most hair types'

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"I’d recommend limiting your hair-washing schedule to once every other day to train your hair to go longer between washes. However, this is completely down to the individual."

Being strategic with your hair care purchases is crucial too, with the expert emphasising the importance of "choosing products that are specifically formulated for your hair type and hair needs".

He continued: "A good quality sulphate-free shampoo should be a staple in your hair care routine - it's gentler on your scalp and helps to retain the hair's natural oils and moisture barrier.

"Pamper yourself and give your hair some extra TLC by including a deep conditioning treatment in your routine. This will nourish and strengthen the hair's structure, leaving the hair looking luxurious, luscious and lovely."

Getting regular haircuts can also "work wonders", according to one expert, who revealed the number of weeks to leave between haircuts for "thicker, healthier hair" and no split ends.

In another GB News deep dive, a skin care expert exclusively shared the three ingredients that provide a solid foundation for elastic skin.

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