Breaking Generational Haircare Habits: Educating Clients on Modern Practices

Haircare advice is often passed down through generations, with mothers, grandmothers, and other family members sharing tips they’ve relied on for years. While these traditions are meaningful and often rooted in personal experience, many older practices don’t align with the advancements in hair science and modern styling techniques. As a stylist, part of your role is to gently educate clients about these outdated habits and introduce them to approaches that better suit their hair’s needs today.

Common Generational Habits That Need Updating

One of the most prevalent myths is the idea that brushing hair 100 times a day promotes health and shine. While the intention was to distribute natural oils from the scalp, excessive brushing can lead to breakage and overstimulation of oil production. Clients still clinging to this practice may benefit from understanding that fewer, gentler strokes with the right brush—like a boar bristle or paddle brush—are more effective and less damaging.

Another outdated habit is washing hair daily, which was often necessary in an era when shampoos weren’t as gentle or targeted as they are today. Modern shampoos are designed to cleanse without stripping natural oils, and frequent washing can now be counterproductive, especially for clients with dry or textured hair. Educating clients on how often to wash based on their hair type and lifestyle can significantly improve their scalp health and hair quality.

Many clients may also rely on home remedies, like mayonnaise masks or beer rinses, because they were household staples in previous generations. While these methods may have some benefits, they often lack the precision and effectiveness of modern treatments formulated with advanced ingredients. Suggesting professional-grade masks, oils, or leave-in conditioners can help clients achieve better results with less mess and effort.

The Role of Tradition vs. Science

Acknowledging the sentimental value of generational habits is important. Instead of dismissing these practices outright, position your advice as an evolution of those traditions. For example, if a client swears by coconut oil because their grandmother used it, explain that while it’s a great moisturizer, overuse can lead to buildup, and suggest lightweight alternatives or professional products that deliver similar benefits without the drawbacks.

Modern Practices to Introduce

Introduce clients to scalp-focused care, which has gained popularity in recent years. Explain the benefits of exfoliating scrubs, scalp serums, and regular cleansing to maintain a balanced scalp environment. This shift from traditional oiling practices to a more comprehensive approach helps modernize the ritual while respecting its roots.

Heat protection is another critical area where modern practices shine. Previous generations often relied on tools like curling irons or hot rollers without protective sprays, leading to long-term damage. Educating clients on the necessity of thermal protectants and how to use tools at the right temperature can prevent unnecessary harm while still achieving their desired style.

Additionally, the rise of multi-functional products, like leave-in treatments with UV protection or styling creams with built-in hydration, simplifies routines. For clients used to elaborate steps, introducing these products can modernize their approach and save time.

How to Approach the Conversation

Gently addressing these habits requires empathy and a respect for the cultural and familial significance behind them. Frame your advice as a way to build on what they already know, rather than replacing it entirely. For example, you might say, “That’s such a wonderful tradition—here’s a way we can update it to work even better for your hair today.”

Providing tangible results is also key. Suggest trying a new product or technique for a few weeks and comparing the difference. Clients are more likely to embrace change when they see the benefits firsthand.

Empowering Clients Through Education

Breaking generational haircare habits isn’t about rejecting the past—it’s about empowering clients with the tools and knowledge to make informed decisions for their hair today. By blending respect for tradition with advancements in hair science, you help clients achieve healthier, more manageable hair while honoring the legacy of their routines. And in doing so, you reinforce your role as an expert who’s not just following trends but tailoring solutions to their unique needs.