The primary reason for frizzy hair is dryness, which leads to a rough and raised hair cuticle allowing moisture to unpredictably enter or escape the hair strand. Several common causes contribute to this dryness and resulting frizz:
- Humidity: Moisture in the air causes the hair cuticle to swell and frizz, especially in humid or rainy climates.
- Washing with hot water: Hot water strips natural oils from the scalp and hair, increasing dryness.
- Harsh hair products: Chemicals, sulfates, alcohols, and strong coloring agents remove natural oils, damaging the hair and causing frizz.
- Heat styling: Frequent use of hot tools damages the hair cuticle and removes moisture.
- Overwashing: Washing hair too often strips it of natural oils needed for smoothness, typically 2-3 times per week is ideal.
- Rough drying and brushing: Friction from towels with rough fibers and brushes with hard bristles can ruffle the hair cuticle.
Additionally, genetics, hair type (curly and wavy hair is more prone to frizz), and hair damage such as split ends also cause frizz. To combat frizz, it is helpful to use lukewarm water, gentle hair products, minimize heat styling, avoid overwashing, and dry hair gently with microfiber towels or by blotting rather than rubbing.
