In this article
For many people, myself included, dry hair can be an absolute nightmare. It can happen at different times of the year due to the change in weather, but it can also happen unexpectedly for various reasons. In this article, we'll explore what causes dry hair, identify the telltale signs, and discuss what steps you can take to prevent it from happening to you.
Dry hair: Causes, symptoms, & treatments
What makes hair so dry?
Dry hair and scalp can be caused by various factors, which makes it difficult to identify the exact culprit. Some of the common reasons include chemical treatments, excessive use of hair products, and frequent use of heated styling tools.
Additionally, harsh shampoos and hot water during hair washing can strip natural oils, while exposure to environmental elements like sun, wind, and pollution can also contribute to the problem. Aging can also cause reduced natural scalp oil production, leading to dryness. If you are unsure about the cause of your dry hair, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis before seeking a solution.
What are the symptoms of dry hair?
Dry hair often feels rough and lacks smoothness, making it prone to brittleness and split ends. It appears dull, tends to be frizzy, and is challenging to manage. Tangles are common, and it can develop excess static, leading to itchiness and a lack of elasticity. Having dry hair can eventually lead to significant damage, so here are some tips to save your poor hair from disaster, and make it look shiny and healthy again in no time.
10 tips to fix your dry and damaged hair you want to know
1. Trim your hair regularly
Get regular trims to remove split ends and avoid further damage. Trimming your hair regularly will eliminate split ends and prevent them from worsening.
2. Eat well
For maintaining healthy, strong hair, it's essential to make sure you eat the right things. Eat a balanced diet rich in hair-nourishing nutrients such as proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, and plenty of vitamins and minerals.
3. Use a gentle shampoo that’s right for you
Everyone has different hair with different needs, however, a safe bet would be to opt for a sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoo. Also, try not to shampoo your hair every day to give it a rest.
4. Condition regularly
Apply a hydrating conditioner after every shampoo. Choose a conditioner suitable for your hair type and use it after shampooing your hair. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this will help to, "significantly improve the look of damaged or weathered hair by increasing shine, decreasing static electricity, improving strength, and offering some protection from harmful UV rays".
5. Deep conditioning
Use deep conditioning treatments or hair masks weekly. These treatments are the heavyweights of hair conditioning and will do wonders for your hair. By applying these to damp hair, they'll stay put, even after rinsing, ensuring a long-lasting moisturizing experience.
6. Try to air dry
Let your hair air dry instead of using a hair dryer when possible. It doesn't need to be daily, but try not to use a hair dryer every day of the week as it will dry out your hair and high temperatures can potentially cause damage. You may be interested in the difference between air-dry and blow-dry.
7. Use heat protectant
If you are using heat tools when styling your hair, remember always to use a heat protectant spray. The excessively high temperatures of these tools could cause your hair to become brittle, and cause flyaways and split ends.
8. Avoid heat styling
Minimize the use of heat-styling tools. If you cannot live without your tools, then don't crank the temperature all the way up. For most hair types a medium heat setting will get the job done and reduce the suffering your hair has to endure.
9. Use leave-in products
Apply leave-in conditioners, serums, or oils after showering to increase and maintain the moisture in your hair. For people with dry hair, apply the product through the mid-lengths and ends of your hair to get the best results.
10. Limit chemical treatments
Reduce the use of harsh chemical treatments. They might make you look fabulous, but doing these too frequently is torturing your hair.
FAQs about drying hair you may be interested in:
Q1. Which is the best shampoo for dry hair?
There are many options when shopping for a shampoo that combats dry hair, but there is one that stands out as being recognized by many as a reliable choice. That is the reparative, hydrating, and nourishing Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo.
Q2. Which is the best dry shampoo for oily hair?
There are shampoos for every type of hair, and every type of hair problem. When talking about a product that is designed specifically for oily hair, Neutrogena T/Sal Therapeutic Shampoo is a very strong contender for the best on the market. Best paired with a nourishing conditioner to ensure your scalp doesn't get too dry after shampooing.
Q3. What is the correct way to blow dry hair?
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Start with clean, slightly dry hair; don't start blow drying when your hair is still sopping wet.
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Use a premium hair dryer with adjustable settings and a nozzle for your desired result.
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Divide your hair into sections, and start with low to medium heat and low speed.
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Hold the dryer about 6 inches away from your hair and use a brush to style your hair as you dry it.
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Finish with a blast of cool air to set your style and then apply a finishing product for shine and frizz control.
(If you have wavy or curly hair and require a diffuser to dry your hair, check out the ultimate guide to using a hair diffuser for some tips).
Q4. How to treat dry scalp and oily hair?
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Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo suitable for both issues, but avoid shampooing your hair too frequently.
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Apply shampoo directly onto the scalp, then use a lightweight conditioner on the ends of your hair.
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Occasionally use a clarifying shampoo to remove excess oil and buildup.
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Be gentle when brushing your hair.
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Watch your diet to help regulate oil production.
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Consider natural remedies like aloe vera, tea tree oil, or apple cider vinegar.
Q5. Do I need a hair-drying towel to help repair my dry hair?
While not absolutely necessary, a hair-drying towel can help dry your hair without causing damage, especially if you have dry hair. These towels are designed to be gentle and absorbent and they can assist in reducing frizz and breakage. You can also achieve similar results with a soft microfiber towel or by patting your hair gently. The main point is to be gentle when drying your hair to prevent further damage to dry hair.
To wrap things up
Dry, damaged hair can be a nightmare and can cause real problems with your self-esteem if you're not looking your best. I hope that this article has provided you with the techniques and know-how to avoid drying your hair out. So do your best to stay away from bad hair days and keep looking your very best every day, with a head of full, healthy hair!
