Summer may give us glowing skin, but one thing most women loath about the steamy season? Fighting frizzy hair.
Rising temperatures are often to blame, but stylists say the root of the problem is more than just hot air.
“Hair becomes frizzy when it runs out of its moisture and natural oils,” explains New York City-based celebrity stylist Angelo David. “Genetics can also play a big role in making you predisposed to frizziness. And external factors, such as styling tools, and yes, humidity, can also make your hair frizzy. Another factor? Not using the right product for your specific hair texture can also exacerbate the problem.”
And even those stylish seasonal highlights could cause more harm than good.
“Over-processing hair with chemical services, such as hair color, is one of the main cases for frizzy hair,” warns Beverly Hills-based celebrity stylist Nelson Chan.
So how can you tame those tresses? Here are six simple ways:
Use Heat with Caution: If those heated styling tools can easily burn your skin with a light touch, chances are they're frying your hair. Make sure you first apply a heat protecting product onto your hair and avoid using too much heat overall. If your mane seems to already be a lost cause, Chan says products with , like those found in his collection, can make dry, damaged locks silky smooth.
Blow Dry the Right Way: If you must pick up the hair dryer, make sure you’re styling like a pro. “The best way to avoid frizz is to blow dry your hair from the top down,” says Chicago-based celebrity stylist George Gonzalez. “Direct the dryer towards the ends. Always dry the roots about 70 percent first and then focus on the ends. Make sure you control the ends with your brush or try using your hands to press the dried hair smooth.”
Stay Hydrated: Frizzy hair usually means your locks are thirsty, and those trips to the pool or beach can further strip your hair of its natural oils. Woody and Amy Michleb, the creative directors of Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salons, stresses to keep your hair moisturized during the summer with the proper shampoo and/or conditioner. “Hair is frizzy when the cuticles are not smoothed and the hair is dry,” they say. “It soaks in all the moisture in the air like a sponge. If the hair is happily hydrated and the cuticles are closed, it will not absorb the excess moisture.” Another option for those with dry hair is using a leave-in conditioner which also has added sun protection. Finally, avoid using shampoos with alcohol as that little ingredient can quickly (and easily) dry out your hair.
It's Not Just About the Hair: Making sure your hair is well-moisturized isn’t just about using the right shampoo or conditioner. The air conditioner and those long, relaxing showers could also be contributing to dryness, which leads to frizziness. “Make sure you have a humidifier in your home to help avoid drier air from pulling moisture from your tresses and skin,” says Gonzalez. In addition, he advises using cool water to close the hair cuticle when washing. Afterwards, squeeze water completely from the hair and then gently pat with a towel without rubbing to minimize frizz and tangles.
Embrace a Popular Look: “Since is on trend, try and create looks without curling irons or hot rollers,” explains Gonzalez. “Set your hair in braids overnight or encourage any natural waves by using curl-enhancing creams or mousses.” If your hair falls flat, Gonzalez recommends getting an appropriate cut from a professional. “(Layers) will release weight and encourage volume,” he says. “A fringe is also another idea to give hair more style and the illusion of more height in the crown.”
Look for One Ingredient: If you’re short on time, quickly apply a hair product featuring grape seed extract, a key ingredient for fighting frizz on the go. “I recommend Tame It Shine Lotion,” says Devin Toth, senior stylist and director of education for Ted Gibson in New York City. “Not only does it make hair smoother and glossier, but it also has grape seed extract, which is an anti-humectant frizz combatant.”
Fun stories about food, relationships, the great outdoors and more.