10 Tips for Frizzy Hair in Humidity
We harp on heat a lot, but the panic-inducing frizz that accompanies humidity is another thing altogether.
Like hair damage or a rough towel, humidity is just another reason that your hair is frizzy. If you’re wondering how to get rid of the frizz, we’ve got all the best tips and tricks, even in humidity.
Why Does Humidity Make Hair Frizzy?
Humidity is caused by high levels of moisture in the air. Water molecules that are floating around bind to the proteins on your hair strands. This process causes hair to coil up and revert back to its natural texture, plus one extra step of curliness. Depending on your natural level of curl, this can result in limp or poofy frizz – either way, it’s probably not the look you’re going for.
Top Tips for Frizzy Hair in Humidity
1. Make Conditioner Part of Your Routine
One of the key elements to eliminating frizz is to ensure your hair has enough moisture. Hair that is well hydrated, such as frequently conditioned hair, is less likely to absorb moisture from humid air. Look for a shampoo and conditioner that contains glycerin, an ingredient that fights off frizz and creates a protective barrier around the hair shaft, keeping moisture in and humidity out.
Hair that is well hydrated, such as frequently conditioned hair, is less likely to absorb moisture from humid air.
2. Opt for Cooler Water
Nothing quite compares to a nice hot shower, but your hair is not a fan. Hot water zaps moisture right out of your strands, leaving them a frizzy mess. Opt for cooler water in the shower to seal in moisture and hydrate your scalp.
3. Use a Comb Instead of a Brush
Brushing dry hair causes friction and lifts the cuticle, whereas brushing wet hair runs the risk of breakage and damage–both of which are huge frizz culprits. This makes gently detangling with a comb your best option to eliminate frizz.
4. Don’t Forget Heat Protectant
Overstyling causes damage to the cuticle, allowing your hair to absorb moisture from the air which causes frizzy hair in humidity. To prevent brittleness and breakage, apply a heat protectant to your hair before styling. Gently comb through your stands to ensure an even distribution.
5. Apply a Little Heat
Heat doesn’t have to be the enemy In fact, your flat iron can even work in your favor if handled correctly. Look for a flat-iron spray that offers heat protection while working to reduce frizz and enhance shine. Work in small sections for more control and always start with the lower layers. Also make sure to choose a ceramic, tourmaline or titanium ion flat iron–they conduct heat more evenly and give off negative ions that can help seal the hair cuticle.
6. Use Frizz-Fighting Serum
Repel frizzy hair in humidity with a serum. Serums work to seal and smooth your strands, protecting them from damage while offering a little texture-enhancing shine. Make sure to choose something lightweight and start with a drop or two to avoid weighing down your tresses.
7. Don’t Rub Dry With a Towel
Traditional towels are typically made of cotton or terry cloth, which can severely dehydrate your hair while being rough and causing damage. Instead, look for microfiber hair-drying towels. These will gently absorb excess water while leaving your hair feeling and looking healthy and frizz-free. Once 90% dry, use a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment to seal the cuticle.
8. Try a Little Hairspray
Don’t overlook the power of hairspray! It works wonders to smooth and set flyaways and keep a hairstyle in place. This is a great method to keep “baby hairs”, or the fine new growth that can appear around your hairline, in check. Look for hairsprays that offer anti-humidity capabilities.
9. Wear Your Hair Up
Wearing your hair up can be a great solution for frizzy hair in humidity. Friction happens more easily when it is down, so keeping it up in a bun or braid can reduce friction and thus frizz. This is especially true at night. Pickup a silk or satin pillowcase and wear your hair up to keep the frizz at bay.
10. Embrace Your Natural Texture
Sometimes easier said than done, but embracing your natural texture will always play out in your favor. Trying to force a style or use products that aren’t meant for your hair can cause damage and typically don’t end up working well. So try out frizz-fighting hairstyles that are more closely aligned to your natural hair texture.
How to Keep Curly Hair From Frizzing in Humidity
Curly hair can be a little more challenging in general, so it won’t come as a shock that curls are more prone to frizz. This is especially true if curls are damaged or have high porosity. To counteract this, we have a few tips.
Keep them hydrated first and foremost.
Use lightweight shampoo and conditioner for curly hair that won’t weigh down your curls, but will prevent them from seeking out moisture from the humid air.
Make sure your curls are completely dry before going outside.
This makes sure your hair shaft is closed and won’t immediately take on moisture from the air, causing frizz.
Reduce friction, starting with your pillowcase.
Satin is a great choice for taming frizz overnight, especially for curls! Also ditch the regular towels and go with a special microfiber towel–your curls will thank you.
Frizz isn’t fun, but don’t let it be a source of stress. Check out more tips for fighting frizz with John Frieda here.
