Frizzy hair is a common struggle for many people. Whether your hair is curly, wavy, or straight, frizz can make your hair look messy and feel dry. But don’t worry—you don’t have to live with frizz forever.
As a professional hair stylist, I’ve helped countless clients tame their frizz and achieve smooth, healthy hair. In this guide, I’ll share simple, actionable tips to help you get rid of frizzy hair for good. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Why Hair Gets Frizzy
Before fixing frizz, you need to understand what causes it. Frizz happens when your hair absorbs moisture from the air (like humidity), which causes the hair cuticle (the outer layer of your hair) to swell and lift. When the cuticle is rough or damaged, it can’t lay flat, creating frizz.
Here are the main reasons frizz happens:
Dryness: Hair needs moisture to stay smooth. If it’s dry, the cuticle lifts to “grab” moisture from the air, causing frizz.
Damage: Heat styling, coloring, or rough brushing weakens the cuticle.
Humidity: High humidity = more moisture in the air = more frizz.
Hair Type: Curly or wavy hair is more prone to frizz because natural oils from the scalp don’t travel down the hair shaft as easily.
Daily Habits to Prevent Frizz
Small changes to your routine can make a big difference.
Wash Your Hair Less Often
Overwashing strips natural oils that keep hair smooth. Try washing 2–3 times a week. Use dry shampoo between washes if needed.
Use Lukewarm Water
Hot water dries out hair. Rinse with cool water at the end of your shower to seal the cuticle.
Be Gentle When Towel-Drying
Rubbing hair with a towel creates friction, which roughs up the cuticle. Instead, blot hair gently with a microfiber towel or an old cotton T-shirt.
Avoid Brushing Dry Hair
Brushing dry hair (especially with a plastic brush) can cause static and breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb on wet hair while conditioner is in.
The Best Products for Frizzy Hair
Using the right products is key to fighting frizz. Here’s what to look for:
Shampoo & Conditioner
- Avoid sulfates: Sulfates (like SLS) in shampoos strip natural oils. Use sulfate-free formulas.
- Look for moisturizing ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, shea butter, or argan oil in conditioners add hydration.
Leave-In Conditioner or Hair Serum
Apply a leave-in product to damp hair to lock in moisture. Serums with silicone (like dimethicone) create a barrier against humidity.
Heat Protectant
Always use a heat protectant spray before blow-drying or styling with hot tools. It shields hair from damage.
Hair Masks
Use a deep conditioning mask once a week. Look for masks with proteins (keratin) or oils (coconut, jojoba).
Styling Tips to Reduce Frizz
How you style your hair matters!
Air-Dry When Possible
Let hair dry naturally to avoid heat damage. Scrunch curls with a light gel or mousse to enhance texture without frizz.
Use a Diffuser
If you blow-dry, attach a diffuser to spread heat evenly. Keep the dryer on a low heat setting.
Try the “Plopping” Method (for Curly Hair)
Wrap wet hair in a T-shirt or microfiber towel to dry. This reduces friction and encourages curl definition.
Sleep on Silk or Satin
Cotton pillowcases create friction. Switch to a silk or satin pillowcase to keep hair smooth overnight.
Professional Treatments for Severe Frizz
If home remedies aren’t enough, consider these salon treatments:
- Keratin Treatment: Smooths the cuticle and adds protein. Results last 2–5 months.
- Brazilian Blowout: Coats hair with a protective layer to block humidity.
- Olaplex: Repairs broken bonds in damaged hair.
Note: Some treatments contain formaldehyde or other chemicals. Ask your stylist for options if you prefer natural ingredients.
DIY Remedies for Frizzy Hair
Affordable, natural fixes you can try at home:
Coconut Oil Mask
Warm 2 tbsp coconut oil. Apply to hair, leave for 30 minutes, then wash out.
Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse
Mix 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar with 1 cup water. Rinse hair after shampooing to smooth the cuticle.
Aloe Vera Gel
Apply pure aloe vera gel to damp hair as a leave-in conditioner.
Long-Term Habits for Healthy Hair
Prevent frizz by keeping your hair strong:
- Trim Split Ends: Get a trim every 8–12 weeks.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Protein, vitamins (A, C, E), and omega-3s support hair health.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink water to keep hair moisturized from the inside.
Common Mistakes That Cause Frizz
Avoid these habits:
- Overusing hot tools without heat protectant.
- Skipping conditioner.
- Brushing curly hair when it’s dry.
Conclusion
Frizzy hair can be frustrating, but with the right care, you can achieve smooth, shiny locks. Start by identifying what’s causing your frizz (dryness, damage, humidity), then adjust your routine step by step. Be patient—it might take a few weeks to see results!
Related topics:
10 Tips for Taming Frizzy Hair Naturally
Short Frizzy Hair: Causes & Solutions
How to Use Prose Leave-In Conditioner Effectively
