Emma Stone’s Hairstylist Says These Hair Rules Might Be Ruining Your Hair

Celebrity hairstylist Mara Roszak has spent more than two decades working with some of Hollywood’s most photographed women, from Emma Stone to Zoë Saldaña, so she knows exactly which hair “rules” still hold up and which ones need to go. 

On Well With Arielle Lorre, Roszak broke down the myths, styling habits, and everyday mistakes that can quietly wreck your hair over time. She says that healthy hair is less about following rigid beauty rules and more about understanding your texture, using the right products, and stopping the habits that create unnecessary damage. 

Instead of overcomplicating your routine, Roszak makes the case for doing less, being more intentional, and working with your hair instead of constantly fighting it.

8 hair rules Mara Roszak says you can stop following

□ Stop assuming you need to cut your hair short after a certain age

One of the biggest myths Roszak wants to retire is the idea that women have to chop their hair once they hit a certain age. In her view, that rule is outdated. Hair length should come down to what feels good, what works for your texture, and how much styling you’re realistically willing to do—not an arbitrary number.

□ Don’t assume a bob is the easier option

A bob may look polished and effortless, but Roszak says it often requires more work, not less. For people with thicker, wavier, frizz-prone, or more textured hair, a shorter cut can mean more blow-drying and more styling time. 

□ Stop believing frequent trims make your hair grow faster

Trimming your hair does not make it grow faster. What trims can do is keep damaged ends from splitting and breaking, which helps preserve length over time. If your goal is to grow your hair out, constantly cutting it may actually slow your progress.

□ Don’t brush your hair dry if you can help it

Brushing hair dry can be more damaging than brushing it wet. Dry hair is more brittle, especially when tangled, while damp hair can be detangled more gently if it’s coated with conditioner or a detangling product.

□ Stop overcomplicating your routine

Roszak makes a strong case for a minimalist routine. Instead of piling on random products, she recommends sticking to a few essentials: a good shampoo and conditioner, a clarifying wash to remove buildup, a detangler that can double as a heat protectant, and a mask or oil if your hair needs more support.

□ Don’t ignore product buildup and scalp health

She also pushes back on the idea that scalp care has to be complicated. For Roszak, the bigger issue is buildup. A clarifying shampoo or scrub can help remove excess product, oil, and debris so hair has more movement, and the scalp stays cleaner.

□ Stop using the highest heat setting automatically

Higher heat does not always mean better styling. Roszak says using the hottest setting can actually work against you, especially if your hair is fine. A medium heat setting often styles better and helps hair hold shape more effectively.

□ Don’t fight your natural texture more than you have to

More than anything, Roszak’s philosophy is about acceptance. Instead of forcing your hair into something it doesn’t want to do, she suggests finding a cut, routine, and styling method that work with your texture. In the long run, that approach is easier, healthier, and far less frustrating.

To hear all of Roszak’s insights on haircare, listen to Well With Arielle Lorre wherever you get your podcasts.

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