Unless you’re going for a teased-out look, frizzy hair isn’t ideal. Though, in saying that, frizz can help to give hair texture and life, and some even say they’d prefer it to stick-straight hair.
While we’re all for embracing what we’re born with, if you are looking for a sleeker look, there are some things you can do to keep frizz at bay. Which, with Euro summer coming up, may soon be more of an issue.
“The humidity is one of your worst nightmares for frizz,” says Anthony Nader, founder of hair salon Raw Hair by Anthony Nader. “The hair scales are exposed and roughed up when out in the sun or a warm environment. This, in turn, is why your strands become frizzy. Cooler temps will always shield your hair from becoming frizzy.”
Frizz is caused by dryness, says Jaye Edwards, founder of hair salon Edwards and Co. and ambassador for Color WOW. The dryness could be from colouring your hair or using heat styling tools. “Often clients will run a straightener over their hair to combat frizz, but that isn’t the answer,” says Edwards.
While Nader and Edwards suggest asking your hairdresser for caring tips and advice for your specific type of hair, ahead, they share X things you can start doing right now to beat frizz and get smooth, silky locks.
Get a Haircut
“Often clients will run a straightener over their hair to combat frizz, but that isn’t the answer,” says Edwards. “Frizzy hair is a sign you should head into the salon for a trim.”
Use Moisture-Adding Shampoos and Conditioners
When it comes to shampoos and conditioners, Nader says to look out for products packed with moisture, rather than protein.
“Protein is wonderful for strengthening, by all means, but moisture ingredients are key for the longevity of conditioning and shine,” he says. “Look out for ingredients on the packaging like shea butter, avocado oil, argan oil, honey, jojoba oil, and coconut oil.”
Also when buying shampoos and conditioners, Nader suggest you don’t skimp on quality. The higher grade the ingredients, the less they will dry out your strands. He says you’ll easily know when you’re not using premium products because your strands won’t look and feel healthy.
Deep Condition at Least Once a Week
Next up, deep conditions, which many don’t do at all. Nader says to think of a deep condition or moisture mask once a week as rehab for your hair strands. “They deserve to be cared for, don’t they?” he says. “It’s a weekly cleanse that injects goodness and is ready for the next week of styling.”
He also suggests looking to add oil to your hair, which you can easily do with serums. “Your hair is always thirsty for extra hydration, and this will help,” he says.
Apply (Some) Anti-Frizz Product
Though it might be obvious to you, some people don’t consider apply anti-frizz product to damp or dry hair. Or if they do, they apply it incorrectly.
“Another thing people get wrong about combating frizz is applying too much of their anti-frizz product, which can weigh your hair down and leave build up of product in your hair,” Edwards says.
He suggests Color Wow Dream Coat Supernatural Spray ($64), which seals the hair cuticle so moisture from humidity won’t affect it. Apply it to sections of towel-dried hair and then blowdry with tension. For best results, use it every 3-4 shampoo washes.
Rinse With Cold Water
Though easier said than done, after shampooing and conditioning your hair, try rinsing it with cold water.
“As much as you may love the warmth, if you can turn down the temp, fraction or even two, and wear a glam shower cap, you’ll be kicking #NoFrizz goals for days,” he says.
The cold water temperature tightens up the hair scales, so they are protected, and therefore maintain a healthy shine and easy styling options, he explains. In contrast, hot water tends to keep hair strands more open, making them frizzy and feeling rough.
Another hot tip? Don’t rub your wet hair down with a towel after a shower — instead try blotting it. Nader says you’ll notice a huge difference.
Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase
Next up is investing in a silk pillowcase, which Nader himself has been such a fan of himself for the last 30 years, he decided to create his own. He uses 25-momme – most Australian pillowcases are 16-22 momme, he explains – and 100% mulberry silk.
“Mulberry silk is the saviour for waking up in the morning and not looking like a power surge has just zapped you,” he says.
Lay Off Heat Styling Tools
Finally, to beat frizz, go easy on the heat styling, Nader says. If you do need to use a hairdryer or hot tool, turn down the heat.
“There’s no need to turn your appliances up to ‘maximum’ when you’re getting the result you need on a much lower heat seating,” he says. “Also, look out for a ceramic plate with your appliances. Ceramic is known for its silky-smooth finish because it locks in moisture always.”
Nader suggests using his own LTN Hair Straightener ($220) with ceramic plates.
