Hair Care for Bikers

One of the most common concerns for motorcyclists, especially those with long hair, is how wearing a helmet will affect their hair. Whether it’s worries about hair loss, helmet hair, or simply how to wear a helmet comfortably with a ponytail, we’ve got answers to all the questions you might have about helmets and hair.

• Traction Alopecia: If your helmet is too tight, it can cause repeated tension on the hair follicles, especially around your forehead, leading to a condition called traction alopecia. This is hair loss caused by stress on the roots.
• Sweat and Scalp Health: Long hours of wearing a helmet can cause a sweaty scalp, which may weaken hair follicles and lead to hair thinning if not properly managed. Accumulated sweat and oil can clog pores and reduce the overall health of your scalp, making it more susceptible to hair fall.

How To Prevent Hair Loss

• Make sure your helmet has a snug fit and not too tight
• Clean your helmet liner regularly to avoid sweat buildup
• Wear a balaclava, bandana or skull cap under your helmet to reduce friction and absorb sweat
• Give your hair regualr care, such as washing it frequently and using a good conditioner to keep it strong and healthy

• Low Ponytail or Bun: One of the easiest and most practical styles. A low ponytail or bun sits at the base of your neck, ensuring that it doesn't interfere with the fit of your helmet.
• Braids: Braiding your hair can reduce tangling and breakage. A simple single braid down the back or even double braids can keep your hair secure while you're riding.
• Loose Bun: A loose, low bun prevents your hair from getting caught in the helmet's padding, while still keeping it off your face.
• Tuck-and-Roll: Another option is to tuck your hair into a balaclava, bandana or neck tube before wearing your helmet, which can prevent it from getting tangled and protect it from sweat.

“Helmet hair” happens when your hair gets flattened or looks disheveled after wearing a helmet. While it's inevitable to have some impact on your hairstyle, there are ways to minimise the mess:

• Use a Silk or Satin Liner: These materials create less friction than cotton or polyester, helping to keep your hair smooth and frizz-free.
• Dry Shampoo or Volumising Spray: After taking off your helmet, a quick spritz of dry shampoo can help revive flattened hair and absorb any excess oil from sweat.
• Wear a Headband or Bandana: Wrapping your hair in a bandana can help reduce the pressure points that cause flat spots. It also keeps sweat from soaking into your hair, helping you maintain a fresh look after your ride.
• Plan for Shorter Rides: If maintaining your hairstyle is a priority, plan shorter rides or break them up to allow your hair to “breathe” and reset before it gets too matted down.

Helmets can sometimes lead to breakage or frizz, especially for those with longer hair or curly hair. Here are some tips to protect your hair while riding:

• Condition Regularly: Keeping your hair moisturised is key to avoiding frizz and breakage. Use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil before your ride to protect your strands.
• Invest in a Helmet with Proper Ventilation: A well-ventilated helmet will help prevent excessive sweating, which can weaken your hair over time.
• Choose the Right Helmet Fit: Helmets that are too tight can pull on your hair, while a helmet that’s too loose can cause your hair to rub against the helmet’s interior, leading to frizz or damage. Make sure your helmet fits just right to avoid these issues.
• Wear a Protective Layer: A silk or satin scarf wrapped around your hair can act as a protective barrier between your helmet and hair, reducing friction and protecting your strands from damage. Alternatively, you can use a balaclava.

Curly hair presents its own set of challenges when it comes to helmet use, but with the right preparation, you can keep your curls looking great:

• Moisturise: Curly hair is naturally drier, so be sure to use a leave-in conditioner or hair oil before putting on your helmet to prevent frizz.
• Protect Your Curls: A satin or silk scarf wrapped around your curls before putting on your helmet can help maintain their shape and prevent breakage.
• Plop Your Hair: "Plopping" is a technique where you bundle your curls in a microfiber towel or scarf to protect them. This can work under a helmet to keep curls from getting squished or frizzy.