Read through by Dorthe Kristensen
Hairdresser and former co-owner of the award-winning hairdressing chain Zoom by Zoom
With many years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Dorthe has advised many customers about hair and hair care. Dorthe has read through this blog entry to ensure high quality and professionalism. This blog post is professionally updated on September 18, 2024.
Table of contents
Welcome to our blog! Today, we'll talk about a common issue that many people face - frizzy hair. If you've ever struggled with frizzy and unruly locks, you're in the right place. We'll guide you through the most effective methods and natural solutions to combat frizzy hair. Read on to achieve the frizz-free, smooth, and shiny hair you've always dreamed of!
What is frizzy hair?
Frizzy hair is characterized by unruly and uneven strands of hair that stick out in different directions. It can also be dry and brittle, which can result in a lack of shine and mobility. Often, frizzy hair will also be more prone to frizz and difficult to style. It can give an unruly and unkempt look, which can be frustrating for many people. Frizzy hair is caused by a variety of reasons, including genetics, the hair's natural texture, and environmental factors such as humidity. Frizzy hair can have several effects on the hair, such as dryness, weakness and lack of shine. It is important to understand these factors to effectively combat frizzy hair.
Causes of frizzy hair
Frizzy hair can be caused by several factors, including dry hair and a lack of moisture. Dry locks can become more frizzy and difficult to style, so it's essential to care for your hair with an appropriate shampoo and avoid excessive use of heat tools. Adding more moisture can also help reduce frizzy hair.
Damage caused by frequent use of heat tools like blow dryers or flat irons can also result in frizzy hair. Therefore, it is recommended to limit the use of these tools or apply a heat-protective spray before styling to minimize hair damage. A good brush or comb without sharp teeth can also help avoid unnecessary tugging on the hair and reduce the risk of frizz.
1. Dry hair
Dry hair is one of the primary causes of frizzy hair. When hair lacks sufficient moisture, it becomes more susceptible to frizz. Dry hair tends to absorb moisture from the air, causing strands to swell and become unruly.
There are several factors that can lead to dry hair. Overwashing the hair with shampoos that are too aggressive can strip the hair of its natural oils, resulting in dryness. Additionally, frequent use of heat tools such as blow dryers, straighteners and curling irons can also damage the hair and cause dryness.
How do I know if my hair lacks moisture?
One of the best ways to test if your hair lacks moisture is by performing the float test. This test is simple and only requires a bowl of water and a few hair strands.
To perform the float test, start by taking a few hair strands and placing them in a bowl of water. Let the hair strands sit in the water for a few minutes. Observe how they behave in the water. If the hair sinks quickly to the bottom, it means that the hair is highly porous and likely lacks moisture. Porous hair absorbs water quickly, making it sink. Conversely, if the hair floats or sinks very slowly, it has a healthy moisture balance. Hair with a good moisture balance is less porous and takes longer to absorb water.
This simple test can give you a clear indication of whether your hair lacks moisture and can help you take the necessary steps to improve your hair's health by adding the required moisture.
2. You wash your hair too much
Too frequent hair washing can be a cause of frizzy hair for several reasons. One of the primary reasons is that overwashing the hair with a shampoo that is too aggressive can strip the hair of its natural oils that act as a protective barrier. Without these natural oils, hair becomes more susceptible to dryness and frizz.
When hair loses its natural oils due to frequent hair washing, it can result in dry and unmanageable strands. Dry hair tends to absorb moisture from the air, causing the strands to swell and stick out in different directions. This can give the hair a frizzy and unruly appearance.
In addition, frequent hair washing can also lead to an overproduction of sebum, which is the body's natural oil production. When the hair is subjected to frequent hair washing, the sebaceous glands in the scalp can become overactive and start producing more sebum to compensate for the lack of oil in the hair. This overproduction of sebum can also lead to dry and frizzy hair. You can read our guide to how often you should wash your hair here .
3. Damage from heating tools
Damage from heat tools can cause additional problems with frizzy hair. The intense heat from hair dryers, flat irons, or curling irons can strip the hair of its natural moisture, increasing the chance of frizzy hair. It's important to use protective products like a heat-protective spray and avoid excessive use of blow dryers, flat irons, or curling irons.
When you style your hair with heat tools, it can result in dryness and damage to the hair. Make sure to use an appropriate temperature and avoid using the tools directly on dry hair. It is recommended to let the hair air dry as much as possible before using heat or to dry it at a low heat setting to minimize damage. Also, use a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle frizzy hair before styling to minimize damage.
4. Using the wrong shampoo
Using the wrong shampoo can be one of the causes of frizzy hair. When hair is washed with an excessively aggressive shampoo, it can strip the hair of its natural oils, which act as a protective barrier. These natural oils help maintain the hair's moisture and prevent dryness and frizz. Without these oils, the hair becomes more vulnerable to external factors such as heat, pollution, and humidity, which can exacerbate the problem of frizzy hair.
When hair loses its natural oils due to using the wrong shampoo, it can become more prone to dryness and frizz. The hair tends to absorb moisture from the air, causing the hair strands to swell and become unruly. This creates an unwanted frizz effect, which can be difficult to tame, especially in humid environments. The result is frizzy and uncontrollable hair that many struggle to manage, even with styling products.
Therefore, it is important to choose a shampoo that is specifically formulated to provide moisture and nourishment to the hair. shampoos enriched with natural ingredients like aloe vera, argan oil, or coconut oil can help restore the hair's moisture balance and reduce frizz. These ingredients work together to soothe and smooth the hair strands, resulting in softer, more manageable hair that is less prone to frizz.
It is also important to avoid shampoos that contain sulfates or alcohol. Sulfates, which are commonly used as cleansing agents, can be too harsh and strip the hair of its essential oils, while alcohol can contribute to dryness. Make sure to read the ingredient list on the shampoo and choose one that is free of harmful chemicals and sulfates. This will help maintain the hair's natural balance and minimize the risk of frizz. You can read much more about why you should choose a sulfate-free shampoo here.
5. Lack of moisture
ack of moisture is a common cause of frizzy hair. If the hair does not receive sufficient moisture, it can become dry, brittle, and frizzy. This can be due to various factors such as weather conditions, frequent hair washing, use of heat tools, and using the wrong shampoo.
To combat dryness and frizzy hair, it is important to provide the hair with adequate moisture. Use a deep-cleansing and moisturizing hair mask at least once a week to give the hair an intensive treatment. You can also consider using a leave-in conditioner or hair oil after washing your hair to seal in moisture and reduce frizz. These products create a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss and keeps the hair soft and shiny throughout the day.
We can highly recommend this moisturizing and caring hair mask, which really gives the hair care and nourishment. Try our Repair and Care hair mask here .
6. You brush your hair too much
Excessive brushing of the hair can result in frizzy hair due to several factors. When hair is brushed repeatedly, it can lead to overstimulation of the hair's natural oils, which can cause an imbalance in the hair's moisture level. This can result in dry, frizzy hair.
The hair is covered with a cuticle layer that helps protect and maintain the hair's moisture. When hair is brushed repeatedly, the cuticle layer can become damaged, leading to moisture loss and increased frizzy hair.
Furthermore, brushing the hair can also cause friction between the hair strands, leading to electric hair and further frizz. When brushes are used on dry hair, it can result in additional damage and increased frizz.
To combat frizzy hair caused by excessive brushing, it's important to be gentle and careful when brushing your hair. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles, such as a boar bristle brush.
You can also consider brushing your hair while it's wet, as it is more receptive to brushing and less likely to become frizzy. Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles and start brushing from the ends and work your way up towards the roots to avoid pulling and damaging the hair.
If you experience frizzy hair due to over-brushing, it may be a good idea to reduce the number of times you brush your hair throughout the day. Try to limit it to morning and evening and avoid brushing it during the day unless it is absolutely necessary.
Try our mega-popular and gentle Curved Paddle Brush! It is loved by thousands of women. The brush features boar bristles, ensuring a good distribution of the hair's natural oils.
Effective methods to combat frizzy hair
Frizzy hair can be challenging to manage, but with the right methods, you can achieve softer and more manageable hair.
Use moisturizing products:
- Choose shampoo and conditioner with moisturizing ingredients like argan oil or coconut oil. These natural oils penetrate deeply into the hair strands and help restore moisture balance, making the hair more resistant to frizz.
- Use a leave-in conditioner to add extra moisture and reduce frizzy hair. Leave-in conditioners act as a protective barrier against environmental factors that can dry out the hair.
Gentle handling of the hair:
- Use a wide-toothed comb or a brush with soft bristles to avoid pulling on the hair. This reduces the risk of hair damage, which can lead to increased frizz.
- Sleep on a bamboo pillowcase, as it reduces friction against the hair and minimizes frizzy hair. Bamboo is a naturally soft material that does not absorb moisture from the hair, helping to preserve its natural shine.
Avoid heat tools:
- Let your hair air dry as much as possible and avoid using blow dryers. Drying with a gentle towel can also help minimize frizz.
- If you need to style your hair, use heat-protective products and set your styling tools to the lowest temperature. This protects the hair from damage and helps maintain its natural structure.
1. Use of moisturizing products
Using moisturizing products is essential for effectively combating frizzy hair. Choose a good shampoo, conditioner, or oil that suits your hair type, and apply it regularly to keep your hair hydrated and reduce frizzy hair. Also, use a deep-conditioning conditioner or hair mask at least once a week to provide extra nourishment and moisture to your hair.
Always handle your hair gently to avoid further damage and frizzy hair. Never use a regular towel to dry your hair, as it can be rough on the hair and lead to increased frizz. Instead, use a microfiber towel or let your hair air dry naturally.
Avoid using heat tools like blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons as much as possible. These tools can dry out the hair and make it more prone to frizzy hair. If you can't avoid heat tools entirely, always apply a heat-protective spray before use to minimize damage to your hair.
2. Gentle handling of the hair
Handle your hair gently by avoiding aggressive brushes and combs. Instead, use a wide-toothed comb or your fingertips to gently detangle your hair. This can help reduce the risk of frizzy hair. Easy, right?
When drying your hair after a shower, avoid rubbing it harshly with a towel. Rubbing can cause hair strands to break and increase the chance of frizz. Instead, blot it gently to absorb excess water. This is a more gentle way to handle wet hair, which is particularly vulnerable. You can also consider using a hair towel that is gentle and quickly dries without causing frizz. A microfiber towel is a good choice, as it effectively absorbs water without creating friction, which can worsen frizz.
3. Avoid heating tools
Avoid heat tools to prevent further frizzy hair. Heat can dry out hair and worsen the problem. Try letting your hair air dry naturally or use a diffuser on a low heat setting if you're in a hurry to dry it quickly. If you absolutely must use heat, always remember to apply a heat-protective spray to minimize damage and keep your hair healthy. This helps protect the hair from heat damage and reduces the risk of frizz.
4. Get a good pillowcase
A bamboo pillowcase can help reduce frizzy hair due to its special properties and texture. Bamboo fibers are naturally smooth and soft, which reduces friction between the hair and the pillow during sleep. Friction is one of the main causes of frizz and hair damage. As you move in your sleep, the friction between your hair and a regular pillow can create small abrasions on the hair strands, leading to frizzy and unruly hair in the morning.
Sleeping on a bamboo pillowcase made from bamboo fibers significantly reduces friction against the hair. This helps maintain the hair's smoothness and prevents it from becoming frizzy and tangled overnight. At the same time, it can also help maintain the hair's moisture balance and prevent it from becoming dry and brittle, which is another factor that can contribute to frizzy hair.
Bamboo fibers also have the advantage of being breathable and naturally temperature-regulating. This means they can help reduce the buildup of heat and moisture around the scalp, which can further help keep the hair healthy and less prone to frizz. Furthermore, bamboo is a sustainable material, making it an eco-friendly choice for both you and your hair.
5. Regular haircuts can be key
Regular trimming can reduce frizzy hair for several reasons. Firstly, it helps remove split ends, which are often one of the causes of frizzy hair. When hair is damaged and split, it can easily become prone to frizz and frizz. By regularly trimming the hair, you remove split ends and keep the hair healthy and strong. Split ends not only make the hair look uneven and dry, but they can also travel up the hair strand and cause further damage, making the hair more susceptible to frizz.
Additionally, regular trimming helps maintain the hair's shape and structure. When hair becomes too long and uneven, it can be more prone to frizz and become unruly. By trimming the hair regularly, you can maintain an even length and shape, which can reduce the occurrence of frizzy hair.
Another advantage of regular trimming is that it provides an opportunity to remove any damaged or dead hair strands. Damaged hair strands can be more prone to frizz and create frizz. By removing these strands, you can prevent them from affecting the rest of the hair and worsening the problem of frizzy hair. This contributes to healthier and shinier hair that is easier to maintain daily. Furthermore, regular trims can also promote hair growth, as they remove damaged hair and create space for healthier hair strands.
6. Use a hair oil or hair serum
Hair oil or hair serum can be effective tools in reducing frizzy hair. These products work by adding moisture and nourishment to the hair, helping to smooth and seal the hair's surface. This reduces the friction between the hair and its surroundings, which is one of the primary causes of frizzy hair. By creating a protective barrier around each hair strand, hair oil, and serum not only protect the hair from environmental damage such as pollution and UV rays but also from heat tools that can further dry out the hair.
When hair lacks sufficient moisture, it can become dry and brittle, making it more prone to frizz. Hair oil and hair serum contain ingredients that can moisturize the hair, keeping it soft and pliable. This helps to prevent the hair from drying out, thus reducing the risk of frizzy hair. Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil are particularly effective at penetrating deep into the hair strand and retaining moisture, making the hair more elastic and less prone to frizz. Additionally, these oils add a natural shine, giving the hair a healthier and more vibrant appearance.
Furthermore, hair oil and hair serum can also help to seal the hair's cuticle. When hair is damaged or exposed to external factors like heat and chemicals, the cuticle can become loose and lifted. This results in rough and frizzy hair. By applying hair oil or hair serum, you can seal the cuticle and provide the hair with a smoother and shinier surface. This helps to reduce the occurrence of frizzy hair and leaves the hair looking more lustrous and well-groomed. Regular use of these products can also help to prevent future damage and keep the hair healthy and beautiful in the long term.
Natural solutions for frizzy hair
Frizzy hair can be a challenge, but fortunately, there are many natural solutions that can help you tame unruly locks. By using ingredients that are gentle on the hair and full of moisturizing properties, you can effectively reduce frizz and restore your hair's natural shine. Read on to discover how to achieve healthy and smooth hair using natural methods.
1. Argan oil
Argan oil is a great natural oil that can fight frizz effectively. The oil has many benefits and properties that make it an ideal choice for achieving smooth and shiny hair.
Here are some of the top reasons to use argan oil:
- Deep nourishment: Argan oil contains essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which nourish the hair from deep within. This makes the hair stronger and more resistant to damage.
- Moisturizing properties: The oil helps moisturize dry and frizzy hair, leaving it soft and shiny.
- Heat protection: Argan oil acts as a natural heat protection spray that protects hair from damage from styling tools.
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is a natural and effective solution to fight frizzy hair. It has many properties that help improve hair health and reduce frizz. Here are some of the benefits of using coconut oil:
- Hydrates hair and leaves it soft and smooth
- Seals moisture inside the hair and reduces frizz
- Protects against heat damage from styling tools
To use coconut oil for your frizzy hair, you can follow these steps:
1. Heat some coconut oil between your hands until it melts.
2. Apply the oil evenly to the entire length of your hair, avoiding the roots.
3. Let the oil sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Rinse thoroughly with shampoo.
Regularly use coconut oil as part of your hair care routine to keep frizz under control!
3. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective solution to fight frizzy hair. The natural acid in the apple cider vinegar helps close the hair's cuticle and make it smoother and more manageable. To use apple cider vinegar as a treatment for frizzy hair, dilute it with water and spray it on your hair after shampooing and conditioning. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. Repeat this treatment regularly for best results.
Another way to benefit from the apple cider vinegar is by making a rinse solution with it, this can be particularly effective against frizz from the heat of styling tools such as flat irons or blow dryers.
Product recommendations for frizzy hair
Frizzy hair requires the right products to be tamed. We’ve gathered some of our top product recommendations that can effectively reduce frizz and give you smoother, more manageable hair. Try them to achieve the best results.
Shampoo and conditioner without sulphate and silicone
One of the first things to look at when you have frizzy hair is your shampoo and conditioner. It’s important that they do not contain sulfate, as it can dry out the scalp and lead to even more dryness and frizzy hair. We highly recommend our Repair and Care shampoo and conditioner set. They are formulated without sulfate and silicone and are packed with nourishing, strengthening, and moisturizing ingredients. These products include hydrolyzed wheat protein, Inca Inchi Oil, Sorbitol, Aloe Vera, Macadamia Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Shea Butter. These ingredients help reduce damage by up to 80%, decrease frizz by 29%, and increase shine by 22%.
A moisturising hair mask
If you’re not using a hair mask at least once a week for frizzy hair, you really should be. Another important tip is to apply the hair mask after shampooing so that the hair strands can absorb nutrients most effectively. Our Repair and Care hair mask provides maximum moisture and care for your hair. It helps improve the hair's elasticity, strengthen it, and reduce frizzy hair, resulting in silky-smooth and healthy hair. It contains ingredients such as Inca Inchi Oil, Mango Butter, Rep'Hair, and Neossance Hemisqualane..
Nourishing hair serum
To keep hair moisturised and shiny throughout the day, consider using Repair and Care hair serum. A unique leave-in conditioner that contains the fast-absorbing oil, inca inchi oil, which helps to improve hair elasticity. In addition, it also contains hydrolysed wheat protein which helps reduce damaged hair by up to 80%. The hair serum should be applied after showering and distributed throughout the hair. The product is heat-protective.
Hair brush with boar hair
A slightly overlooked but effective trick to get rid of frizzy hair is to get a hairbrush with boar bristles and nylon spikes. This is because the boar bristles help to transport the hair's natural oils around the hair when you comb your hair. This gives the hair natural moisture and care from the scalp's oils, thereby reducing frizzy hair. We highly recommend our Curved Paddle Brush, which is loved by more than 10,000 women and is an award nominee.
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