How to tame frizzy hair like a pro
Almost everybody fights frizz; we try every trick and product in the market, and we still don’t get the results we want. We have millions of questions: Why, when we use the anti-frizz products, sometimes nothing works in humid environmental conditions. Is the technique we are using the real reason we cannot get rid of frizzy? Most of us spent years battling this problem without any luck. However, there is good news, friends. Once we understand the root cause of the frizzy mess, we can see the light at the end of the tunnel and the big picture.
So, what makes hair frizzy? Frizz is a natural hair response when it absorbs humidity from the air. It occurs when there is a water imbalance between the hair and its surrounding. That is why this phenomenon is more frequent in very humid environments or on hot summer days. Another way to understand it is to visualize it as a mass transfer problem. Water moves from a high moisture concentration area (very humid air) to a low moisture concentration area (hair).
Additionally, when the hair is dry or damaged, the hair fibres are negatively charged. As the water transfer occurs, there is an exchange of surface charge happening with the environment. At higher relative humidity, the mobility and charge dissipation increases, creating static build-up or electrical charge build-up on the hair’s surface.
Bingo, we now have the clues to combat frizz: hydrating our dry hair and/or preventing it from losing hair’s natural oils.
We know what you are thinking; we are guilty of blow drying our hair like crazy, using products with harsh chemicals, etc. So let’s start fresh and focus on the following hair care tips to enhance hair health from the inside out.
Tip #1 | Give Your Hair Extra Moisture with Pre-Shampoo Treatments
Adding a hair nourishment treatment pre-shampoo to your hair care routine is a game-changer. An excellent recommendation is to apply virgin coconut oil (VCO) regularly. Several research studies have shown that virgin coconut oil protects the hair from water damage.
Due to its low molecular weight (it is classified as a penetrating oil) and its hydrophobicity nature, it penetrates the hair shaft and follicle and seals the hair cuticle, thus shielding the hair against surfactant damage and water saturation. Additionally, virgin coconut oil has a high affinity for the hair protein; hence its ability to penetrate the hair is much higher than that found in other oils such as mineral oil. Apply VCO overnight for at least 15 hours before washing for best results. If you’re looking to get that amazing moisturized hair glow, here is a way to cover your hair overnight.
Tip #2 | Condition, Condition, Condition
Like the real estate mantra, we should never forget to condition, condition, condition, always. After shampooing, applying a rinse-off conditioner (RoC) is highly recommended. RoCs work by depositing positively charged ions or cations onto the damaged section of hair. These cations will help reduce static build-up, reduce combing friction, and provide anti-frizz benefits.
Choose products with good quality ingredients. Focus on products that contain natural oils that will provide cationic charges to the hair, such as conditioning agents derived from the rapeseed plant (Brassica rapa olifera plant).
To help you sort through the plethora of options, we’ve compiled a list of the best hair conditioners for a frizz-free summer that have been high humidity-tested and approved!
Tip #3 | Wash Wisely
Avoid shampoos with low molecular weight surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulphates (SLS), which can penetrate the hair fibres and cause surfactant damage. When shopping, look for conditioning shampoos with relatively milder surfactants or if it is not possible, aim for shampoos with SLS concentrations lower than 15%.
For your convenience, we have made a few selections for you. Check out these fantastic hot products:
Tip #4 | Turn down the temp
It is no secret that the hair cuticle gets more damaged with increased exposure to high-heat styling tools. The hair cuticle becomes dried, and the hair is prone to static and frizz. To counteract this problem, lower the device temperature and avoid direct heat contact with the hair as much as possible. Using a hair dryer at a distance of 15 cm and continuous motion reduces hair damage.
Lastly, don’t forget to pack up the conditioner and virgin coconut oil on your next trip to the beach for a frizz free getaway. Share with us what is your favourite product!
Wishing you a life full of glow and beauty,
The Verve Glow Team
