Are Claw Clips Unhealthy for My Hair?

Within the ’80s and ’90s, scrunchies grew to become the It-girl hair accent as a result of they provided a easy resolution to pulling again strands in a trendy means. Right now, that very same precept is strictly why the comfort of the claw clip has taken over the web.

Hair in your face? Throw it in a clip. On day three hair and never fairly prepared to clean it? Throw it in a clip. Searching for an informal updo model however don’t desire the crease of a hair tie? Throw it in a clip. You perceive the premise.

That being mentioned, pulling again your hair can probably trigger some injury, particularly resulting in breakage (I am speaking to you, slicked-back bun). So, does a claw clip pose the identical danger? We requested the consultants to seek out out. Forward, be taught every thing there may be to find out about claw clips and the way to put on them most successfully.

What Are Claw Clips?

“A claw clip is a hair accent used to carry hair in place,” says Dr. Mina Amin, a Los Angeles-based dermatologist. “It includes a spring-loaded hinge with two curved, toothed jaws that grip the hair. The “tooth” interlock when the clip is closed, permitting it to carry a piece of the hair. Claw clips are in style for creating fast, informal updos or half-up kinds and are available in numerous sizes and supplies, starting from plastic to steel.”

Claw clips are thought-about to be one of the in style hair equipment due to how versatile they’re. The distinctive form of the clip permits for countless model choices from a safe ponytail to a half-up half-down look.

Can Claw Clips Harm Your Hair?

Most of the time, our favourite styling instruments and developments can result in injury or breakage in hair. Breakage, in essentially the most extreme case, may cause hair loss. So it is very important perceive the dangers forward of time. “Any hair accent can injury the hair if used excessively or improperly and claw clips are not any exception,” explains Michelle Cleveland, proprietor of Hair Addicts Salon & Extension Bar. “When utilizing a claw clip chorus from pulling the hair too tight and clipping them in the identical spot each day. This will trigger hair to interrupt.”

Equally, if you’re a creature of behavior and have a tendency to put on the identical model each day, concentrate on potential long-term results. “Tight elastic hair ties can create rigidity on the hair shaft, resulting in breakage and thinning, particularly when worn repeatedly in the identical spot,” says celeb hairstylist Jennifer Korab. “Steel hair clips have sharp edges that may snag and pull on the hair. This will trigger cut up ends and weaken strands over time. Claw clips, particularly if used repeatedly or too tightly, can create stress factors on the hair, resulting in breakage or rigidity on the roots.”

The Most secure Methods to Use Claw Clips

The excellent news is that each one the consultants agree that claw clips might be worn safely. How does one try this? Cleveland suggests merely gathering the hair gently, twisting it up towards the scalp, then securing it with a claw clip. Guarantee that your model is safe however not too tight that it creates continued rigidity in your hair. Lastly, keep away from leaving the clip in the identical spot over and over. This can additional restrict any probabilities of persistent breakage in a selected space.

Be aware of your claw clip’s design. Whereas sharp pointed edges would possibly match the vibe of your look, it may result in a much less comfy model. “Select claw clips with easy edges to forestall snagging and reduce hair injury whereas styling,” suggests Korab.

Lastly, Dr. Amin provides one other angle of safely sporting a claw clip, past the realm of hair well being. “It’s advisable to keep away from sporting a claw clip when driving as a result of it will possibly intervene together with your consolation and security,” Dr. Amin says. “Claw clips have a tendency to stand out from the again of your head, which may push towards the headrest. This may occasionally trigger discomfort, have an effect on your posture, or stop you from resting your head correctly, which may restrict head motion and cut back your capability to examine blind spots or react rapidly. Within the occasion of a sudden cease or accident, the clip may additionally pose a danger of harm if it presses towards your head or neck. For safer driving, it is higher to go for a decrease or much less cumbersome coiffure.”

Options to Claw Clips

You probably have a protracted drive and need the hair out of your face, or maybe claw clips do not go well with you, the consultants have suggestions for backups.

• Bobby Pins or Hair Combs: Cleveland recommends bobby pins and hair combs to safe the hair in an identical method.
• Silk Scrunchies: Dr. Amin recommends silk scrunchies, noting that they’re mushy and will assist cut back friction towards the hair and frizz in comparison with commonplace hair ties. “Silk scrunchies additionally are inclined to not depart creases within the hair,” she provides.

The Takeaway

Be aware when utilizing claw clips, simply as you might be with some other hair accent. When used the best means, the clip provides a simple and easy approach to pull your hair again on the go. Nevertheless, watch out about how tight you pull again your hair, how usually you put on the identical model, and any design components which may result in additional breakage.