Experts Explain Causes of Frizzy Hair and Tips for Prevention

Frizzy hair can be a relentless beauty challenge, turning even the sleekest styles into unruly chaos. And you might be wondering why is my hair so frizzy? Whether caused by humidity, heat damage, or lack of moisture, managing frizz is a common struggle that requires targeted solutions. Ahead, we explore the causes of frizz and share expert tips and must-have products to help you achieve smooth, manageable hair every day.

Hair gets frizzy primarily due to a lack of moisture, says Helen Reavey, board-certified trichologist & founder of Act+Acre. She adds, “When hair is dry, the outer layer (cuticle) lifts, allowing moisture to pass through and swell the hair strands, causing frizz. Humidity can exacerbate frizz by increasing the amount of moisture in the air that interacts with the hair, especially for those with high porosity hair (your cuticle layer is more open).”

In addition, curly hair tends to be more frizzy than straight hair. Celebrity hairstylist Gregg Giannillo explains, “Hair with a curly texture that is dry has a rougher cuticle than straight hair. In humidity, water in the atmosphere is attracted to dryer hair, making the cuticle lift more, exposing the rougher texture.”

According to Anthony De Los Santos, owner and founder of DOLO New York Hair Studio, there are three major causes of frizz: over-washing, excessive friction, and styling habits. Reavey tells us that over-washing while using harsh shampoos can be drying and contribute to frizz. That’s why it’s best not to use hair products with sulfates, silicones, alcohols, and fragrances.

When it comes to styling, frequent use of blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons can damage hair and lead to frizz. Reavey advises using a heat protectant if you apply heat to your hair often. Giannillo also mentions that towel drying the hair by rubbing it too hard and disrupting the curl pattern enhances frizz.

To prevent frizzy hair, try using a microfiber towel instead of a regular one, such as the Act + Acre Microfiber Hair Towel. The gentle fabric dries hair to reduce excess friction, preventing frizz and cutting drying time in half.

Incorporating a heat protectant like the Kérastase Genesis Heat Protecting Leave-In Treatment before styling with hot tools creates a protective barrier between the hair and the iron. Limit heat styling by using heat tools sparingly.

Applying a deep conditioning hair mask once or twice a week can restore moisture. Formulas rich in glycerin and shea butter will add extra hydration and nourish ends damaged from heat. One to try is the Brazilian Blowout Deep Conditioning Masque.

Using a leave-in conditioner like OUAI Leave-In Conditioner targets the ends of your hair. These products help to hydrate, strengthen, and reduce frizz and breakage.

Applying hair oil can restore hydration to dead or dry ends. Look for options made with argan oil, which protects the hair from UV rays while improving shine and reducing frizz. One worth trying is Olaplex No. 7 Bonding Frizz Reduction & Heat Protectant Hair Oil.

Moisturize with a hair serum, such as Act + Acre’s Stem Cell Scalp Serum or COLOR WOW Pop + Lock Frizz Control + Glossing Serum, to keep the scalp hydrated.

Finishing your shower with a cool rinse helps seal the hair cuticle, suggests Reavey.

Giannillo says, “Hair that’s already frizzy is always in need of more complete moisture. The humidity in the air is just enough to disrupt the curl pattern and the cuticle layer, but it’s not enough to hydrate.” He suggests adding a cream like OUAI Anti-Frizz Crème, or serum to already frizzy hair to reduce frizz by increasing moisture.

For curly hair, rehydrate, add moisture, and then apply a styling product with hold, such as dae Cactus Fruit 3-in-1 Styling Cream. For straight or styled hair, add a lightweight serum or wax like Kitsch Hair Wax Slick Stick, to reduce frizz.