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Hair type
Frizzy Hair
Frizz happens when the hair's outer cuticle layer lifts and lets moisture from humid air in, causing strands to swell unevenly and separate from their intended shape. It is more common in dry, porous or curly hair, where the cuticle is less smooth to begin with, which makes it easier for humidity to disrupt the surface. Frizz tends to get worse in humid weather for the same reason — more moisture is available in the air to be absorbed unevenly by a rougher cuticle. How hair is dried matters too: rubbing vigorously with a regular towel roughs up the cuticle and is a common, avoidable cause of extra frizz, whereas gentler drying methods reduce it before it starts.
19 products
What to look for
- Silicones and smoothing oils, which coat the hair shaft and reduce moisture absorption
- Leave-in conditioners that improve overall hydration, so hair is less reactive to humidity in the first place
- Anti-frizz serums applied to damp hair before drying, rather than to hair that is already dry
- A microfibre towel or soft cotton T-shirt for drying, used to gently squeeze out water rather than rub
What to avoid
- Rubbing hair vigorously with a regular towel, which roughs up the cuticle and is a common cause of extra frizz
- Skipping anti-humidity or smoothing products in humid weather, when the cuticle is most likely to absorb moisture unevenly
- Applying anti-frizz serum to already-dry hair, which tends to work less well than application on damp hair before drying
Products for frizzy hair
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Frequently asked questions
- What actually causes hair to frizz?
- Frizz happens when the hair's outer cuticle layer lifts and lets moisture from humid air in, causing strands to swell unevenly. It's more common in dry, porous or curly hair, where the cuticle is less smooth to begin with.
- Does the way I dry my hair affect frizz?
- Yes. Rubbing hair vigorously with a regular towel roughs up the cuticle and is a common cause of extra frizz. Gently squeezing out water with a microfibre towel or soft cotton T-shirt, rather than rubbing, is a widely recommended way to reduce frizz before it starts.
This is general information, not medical advice. It does not describe any specific product, and does not diagnose, treat or cure any condition. If you have a persistent skin or scalp concern, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.