Many times we hear and look for different miracle solutions to eliminate the frizzy hair or frizz effect that many people, especially women, have in their hair. But what is hair frizz really? For what reasons does the hair get frizzy and how is it possible to avoid it?
From Hospital Capilar, a hair clinic in Spain, we tell you what exactly hair frizz is, causes that favor its appearance and possible solutions to show off healthy hair and in the best conditions.
When we talk about frizzy hair, we are referring to hair with a frizzy, dry, frayed and voluminous effect. This occurs when the hair is not sufficiently hydrated, which seeks moisture in the environment, expanding the hair fiber. The hair cuticle rises in such a way that moisture reaches the hair shaft, causing it to swell. This is why in humid environments such as near the sea or in rainy weather we feel that the hair frizzes much more.
Therefore, the main reason why hair frizzes is dehydration of the hair fiber. When we do not nourish or hydrate the hair enough for various reasons, the hair tends to frizz, causing the uncomfortable frizz effect.
Does having frizzy hair mean that new hair is growing? No. You have to differentiate between hair frizz and new hair growth.
Frizzy hair occurs when all the hair as a whole tends to swell and take on an "electrified" appearance due to the aforementioned lack of hydration in the hair fiber. Frizzy hair will always be dry and rough to the touch. On the other hand, when under normal conditions the hair falls out due to its own hair life cycleit will grow again. The new hair that grows gains more and more length over the months and even years until it reaches the length of the rest of the hair. In this process, we will be able to observe smaller hairs in size that stand out due to their short length. When this happens, we often say that we have frizzy hair, although it is not entirely true.
Therefore, having frizzy hair does not mean that new hair is growing, but that they are two different conditions. The hair that grows back because it is shorter will stand out, while the frizzy hair supposes that frizz effect on the hair as a whole.
As we have previously mentioned, hair frizzes when it is not sufficiently hydrated and the hair cuticle expands. In this sense, curly hair tends to frizz more frequently due to its shape: when it is twisted, the cuticles tend to open more, causing it to swell more. However, straight and wavy hair are also susceptible to frizz for various reasons.
The weather is one of the factors that tend to have a greater impact on frizzy hair. Especially in humid climates or in rainy environments, hair will tend to frizz much more easily. When the hair is dry or malnourished, the hair fiber expands looking for that moisture that it lacks in the environment, generating frizzy hair.
If we do not take care of the hair enough or do it incorrectly, it is very likely that we do not provide enough hydration. Not using hair products according to our hair type can generate dehydration, increase the porosity of the hair and, ultimately, damage the hair. Besides. Misuse of dryers, irons and brushing the hair roughly are also factors that lead to frizzy hair.
Heat sources, such as dryers and irons, dehydrate the hair fiber. The same happens with excessively hot water, so it is advisable to rinse the hair with lukewarm water to reduce frizz and achieve more shine and silkiness.
The excessive use of dyes and discolorations are also the origin in many cases of frizz. Certain chemical compounds found in these types of products dry out the hair, damage it, and make it more brittle. This is why it is advisable to go to our trusted hairdresser so that they are professionals who dye the hair and, in addition, to the extent possible, use dyes formulated with ingredients of natural origin.
In the same way that diet and hair loss are related, not following a balanced diet and not hydrating enough can contribute to hair loss of quality and frizz. Eating a healthy diet is key to showing off hair in the best condition.
After knowing what hair frizz is and the main causes that originate it, it is convenient to know the measures to be adopted to avoid or minimize the frizz effect of the hair.
It is essential to follow a correct hair care routine, keeping it clean and hydrated at all times. In this way we will not only be preventing hair frizz but also other types of hair conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, among others.
In case the hair tends to frizzy very frequently, it is advisable to use specific shampoos and products for frizz.
Masks and hair serums are great allies for people with frizzy hair. These types of products concentrate nourishing and moisturizing ingredients that, when applied to the hair, manage to improve the texture and silkiness of the hair.
It is very useful not to resort excessively to irons or dryers, in addition to rinsing the hair with lukewarm water as far as possible. Thus, the hair does not become excessively dehydrated.
Another key to considerably reducing hair frizz is to brush it gently, avoiding pulling. If you have curly hair, it is highly recommended to use a thick-toothed brush so as not to break it.
In addition to hair frizz, there are other types of very common hair problems that reduce hair quality. Hair loss is usually one of the most widespread problems but, currently, it has a solution. If you notice excessive hair loss, request a free medical diagnosis and put yourself in the hands of experts.