The hijab is a veil or headscarf worn by many Muslim women. It covers the head and chest. Wearing the hijab is a symbol of modesty in Islam. Some Muslim women also feel the hijab offers protection – not just in a spiritual sense, but in a physical sense as well. Can wearing the hijab actually protect your hair from damage?
What is the hijab?
The word hijab comes from the Arabic word “hajaba”, which means to conceal or hide from view. The Qur’an instructs Muslim women to dress modestly. Covering the head and chest is one way Muslim women observe this instruction.
There are various styles of hijab worn by Muslim women all over the world. Some cover just the head, while others cover the whole body with only the face or eyes visible. The style and coverage varies by region, culture, and personal preference.
Common styles of hijab
- Khimar: A long, cape-like veil that covers the head, neck, and shoulders completely.
- Chador: A full-body cloak that is open down the front.
- Niqab: Covers the whole face except the eyes.
- Burqa: Covers the entire face and body, with a mesh screen over the eyes.
- Al-Amira: A two-piece veil consisting of a close-fitting cap and accompanying tube-like scarf.
- Shayla: A long, rectangular scarf popular in the Gulf region.
While styles vary, the purpose of the hijab stays the same – to dress modestly and encourage others to focus on the wearer’s inward versus outward appearance.
Does wearing the hijab protect your hair?
There are several ways that wearing a headscarf may protect hair:
Shields against dust, dirt, and pollution
Wrapping the hair fully in fabric creates a barrier between your hair and environmental pollutants. This includes:
- Dust
- Dirt
- Smoke
- Smog
- Industrial fumes
These particles can damage the hair cuticle, making hair dull, brittle and prone to breakage over time. The hijab prevents direct contact between hair and pollutants.
Protects against sun damage
Exposure to UV rays can damage hair just like skin. The sun’s radiation weakens and breaks down the bonds in keratin protein that make up each strand. This causes:
- Dry, brittle hair
- Split ends
- Fading of color-treated hair
- Hair breakage
Wearing a headscarf limits the amount of UV exposure your hair gets. Less sun damage means stronger, healthier hair overall.
Keeps hair cleaner for longer
Hair wrapped in fabric stays cleaner than uncovered hair. Without exposure to dirt, dust, pollution, and other contaminants, hair stays fresher for longer between washes. Less frequent washing preserves natural oils and prevents over-drying of hair and scalp.
Reduces need for styling and products
Hijabs hold hair securely in place, reducing the need for extra styling products. Less manipulation preserves the integrity of the hair cuticle. Forgoing hot styling tools also eliminates thermal damage caused by blow drying, flat ironing, and curling.
Prevents mechanical damage from friction
The smooth fabric of the hijab forms a barrier between hair and sources of friction like clothing, bags, and car seats. This protects the hair cuticle from abrasion that can cause splits, snarls and breakage.
Absorbs some impact to cushion hair
A tight wrapping of fabric around the hair provides a small amount of cushioning against blunt force. The hijab may absorb some of the impact from bumps and tosses to minimize stress to hair strands.
Does hijab damage hair?
Despite benefits, some hair care risks do come with wearing a headscarf. These include:
Traction alopecia
Too-tight wrapping of scarves causes constant tension on hair that can lead to traction alopecia. This is a hair loss condition caused by chronic pulling or pressure on the roots. Pay attention to discomfort or headaches as cues to loosen your scarf.
Fungal and bacterial infections
The warm, dark environment under a scarf creates ideal conditions for microbes to grow. Fungi like ringworm thrive under hijabs if hygiene is inadequate. Keeping the scalp and scarves clean is crucial.
Overheating and sweat buildup
Excess heat under a headscarf causes sweaty, humid conditions. This leads to frizz, folliculitis bacterial infections, and hair over-hydration. Allow the scalp to breathe when possible.
Fabric friction
Some hijab fabrics like cotton may absorb natural hair oils. Rubbing against hair can roughen up the cuticle over time. Choose smooth, non-absorbent fabrics like satin or silk to minimize this friction.
Restricted hairstyles
Many Muslim women avoid elaborate hairstyles that may compromise hijab coverage. But restrictive ponies and buns lead to localized stress and breakage. Change positions regularly and avoid super-tight styles.
Tips for hijab hair care
While potential for hair damage exists, it can be minimized with proper care. Here are some tips:
Pick the right fabric
Avoid rough fabrics like cotton. Opt for smooth, gentle materials like silk, satin and georgette instead.
Wrap it loose
Tie your scarves gently to prevent excessive tension on hair follicles.
Vary hairstyles
Switch placement of ponytails and buns to spread pressure points.
Massage your scalp
Gentle scalp massages increase blood flow and stimulate hair follicles.
Condition well
Hydrate and protect hair with regular deep conditioner treatments.
Let your scalp breathe
Give your head periodic breaks from headscarf covering when possible.
Clean headscarves
Wash scarves regularly to prevent microbial growth.
Use protective styles
Try protective braided styles that shield ends from friction.
Avoid harsh manipulation
Minimize tight pulling and heat styling when hair is covered.
Supplement nutrition
Get enough protein, vitamins and minerals to support hair health.
The bottom line
Wearing hijab offers potential hair benefits as well as some hair risks. The advantages primarily come from isolating hair from damaging environmental influences. But tight wrapping and restricted styling can also take a toll over time.
By choosing gentle fabrics, varying hairstyles, and providing plenty of moisturizing conditioning, women can counteract hijab hair hazards. Keeping the scalp and headscarves clean while giving hair periodic breaks from coverage also promotes healthy hair.
Overall, women who are mindful about minimizing friction and tension when styling their headscarves can successfully maintain beautiful hair under their hijabs.