5 mistakes that are preventing you from having long, strong, shiny hair

Demi Moore/ @dimitrishair

Supermarket hairspray in the bathroom? Self-cut bangs in the kitchen? Hair burned by the straightener? We've all made a mistake with our hair at some point in our lives. But, according to celebrity stylist Dimitris Giannetos, some of the biggest damage isn't from conscious mistakes, but from habits we repeat every day, without thinking.

Giannettos is the magic hand behind the looks of Gigi Hadid, Amal Clooney, Cindy Crawford, and even most of the Kardashians. He took Gigi from pink to gray in a matter of weeks, gave Lindsay Lohan a milky hazel blonde hue, and got Demi Moore ready for the Oscars red carpet. So we can safely hear him say, "Here's what you're doing wrong with your hair!"

1. You're overdoing it with dry shampoo (and products in general)

“The first thing I tell clients is to stop using so much dry shampoo,” says Giannetos. Overuse clogs the pores in your scalp, stunting hair growth. And if your hair feels like it’s always flat, it’s probably just packed with product. “Less is more,” he adds.

2. You're washing your hair too rarely (or too often)

Everyone talks about the damage that washing your hair too often brings, but Giannetos also warns about the other side of the coin, washing it infrequently. As oil, dirt, and products build up on your scalp, your hair loses the ability to grow healthily. “The ideal? Wash it every other day and never use conditioner on your roots.”

Of course, it all depends on the type of hair, thin and straight hair needs more frequent washing, curly and thick hair, less often.

3. You're using hot water, especially if you have dyed hair.

We know a warm shower is everything after a long day, but if you have dyed your hair any bold color, it's a big no-no. "Warm water breaks down the color," says Giannetos, especially on red shades that are super sensitive. The solution? Lukewarm water and a color-treated shampoo.

4. Do you believe there is a one-size-fits-all solution for hair growth?

Minoxidil, red light devices, magic supplements, Giannetos says there's a barrage of "solutions" people try, but the reality is they don't work for everyone. "If you want real results, see a dermatologist. Only he or she can analyze what your hair really needs."

5. You are using gel for tight ponytails/buns

The slick-back is one of the most stylish and popular styles on social media. But Giannetos warns against using gel. “Gel is water-based, so your hair will return to its natural texture very quickly.” The best solution? Strong hold hairspray. “Start at the roots with hairspray, comb through your hair with a brush, and then shape the style.”