Did you know that just by taking care of your hair when it’s wet– which is when it’s most sensitive – can make a huge difference in your hair health? No matter what type of hair you have, coarse or fine, giving it some extra TLC when you get out of the shower can prevent hair loss.

Here are 7 things you should stop doing to wet hair:

1. Brushing: Never use a hair brush when your hair is wet, even if it’s tangled. A wide-toothed comb is the safest and gentlest way to get rid of tangles.Make sure you are using a conditioner in the shower to help smooth the cuticle and reduce tangles. (Read more: Untying the Knot: How to Safely Detangle Hair)
   
   
2. Drying with a towel: Did you know that most towel fibers can be damaging to your hair, particularly when it’s wet? If you’re guilty of aggressive towel drying, it may be the reason behind your hair loss. Opt for a microfiber towel instead, or use an old soft cotton t-shirt for drying. Within a month, you’ll notice how much softer and healthier your hair is from this small shift!
   
   
3. Heat styling: Applying heat directly onto wet hair is one of the worst things you can do for your locks. If you need to leave the house after the shower, use low heat or the cool air setting on your blow dryer. It might take up more of your time, but will certainly cut down the risk for damage. Many women have also had to learn the hard way that using a curling or straightening iron on wet hair will only burn your hair off. (Read More: Heat Free Hairstyles)
   
   
4. Using a hair mask: Hair masks should be used on damp or microfiber towel-dried hair. If you use a hair mask on wet hair, it won’t be as effective. Damp hair allows the mask to penetrate the hair shaft much more effectively. (Read more: How to Take Care of Your Hair in the Shower)
   
   
5. Sleep: Some people may think that the advice to never sleep with wet hair may be nothing more than an old wives’ tale. But going to bed with wet hair will only result in tangled knots in the morning. Ideally, your hair should be dry before your beauty rest. (Read More: Protect Your Hair While You’re Sleeping)
   
   
6. Apply hair products: Keep in mind that too much hair product and wet hair don’t really mix. Blow drying wet hair with product will only melt what you’ve applied, and it will weigh your strands down. Unless a product specifically states to apply it to wet hair, wait until it’s dry!
   
   
7. Wearing a ponytail: When your hair is wet, it’s when it’s most elastic. Putting your hair in a bun will only cause breakage and may give you thinning hair in the long run. It will also give you dry ends and flyaways.

Treat your hair right when it’s wet, and you’ll see how much stronger, voluminous, and healthier it will be.