Warning over TikTok hair trend as expert says 'could spell disaster'

Social media users are being warned to steer clear of a new trend that's taking the Internet by storm. On platforms like TikTok, people are sharing clips of themselves adding craft glitter to clear shampoos.

The trend results in a sparkly effect in your hair after washing, which can look quite stunning - particularly on camera. However, it could be a catastrophe, according to a hair expert.

Nicole Petty, from Milk + Blush, has explained why this hack should be given a wide berth. She's also suggested alternative and safer methods to achieve glittery hair.

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She said: "Social media can be a fountain of knowledge for clever hair hacks and tips, but we also know that it can offer bad advice that could leave your hair in a mess. The latest trend sees people adding glitter to a clear shampoo and mixing it to create a sparkly concoction that will theoretically leave your hair looking shimmery. However, this could spell disaster for your locks and should be avoided for several reasons. Firstly, most users attempting the hack are opting for craft glitter, which is a microplastic, and when washed out will contaminate water.

"Leaving glitter in your hair while it's wet and applying heat can also damage your hair, as this will melt or decompose into your hair which could leave your locks infused with plastic and fried."

She added: "This is especially damaging for those with hair extensions, which can require more care than natural hair, as already delicate strands can be wrecked by heat styling glittery hair.

"While this is a fun style for an occasion or party, this is not a subtle everyday look, and washing this out of your hair could prove a nightmare, especially if you've applied heat. You'll likely leave a glittery mess behind you, which could damage your clothes and even your drains.

"Plenty of users have also not seen success with the hack, showing that the glitter did not stay in their hair upon washing it out, so this can be a messy and anti-climactic hack too."

Yet, there are hundreds of other products on the market that can mimic this effect without causing harm and are specifically formulated to work well in hair, such as glitter-infused hairsprays, gels and tinsel for hair, reports the Express.

Or if you're just in search of a little added sparkle to glam up your overall look, consider reusable embellishments like hair gems and pearls that won't compromise the health of your hair.

Nicole concludes: "Not only will these products make your hair look fabulous without the damage, but they also won't destroy the environment like craft glitter will. Save your hair and save the planet by opting for alternative sustainable products to get a shimmery look in your locks."