How to Establish the Right Hair Care Routine for You

Getting into a hair care routine is just like embarking on a skincare one. Once you’ve found one that works for you, you’ll rarely stray.

But the process of finding that routine can seem a little daunting, especially when there are numerous options for people with the same hair type.

Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know to find the hair care ritual that’s right for you.

Your individual routine ultimately depends on a few factors

From the feel of your hair to the styles you prefer, these elements will all alter the routine you end up choosing.

Your natural hair texture or type

Hair types tend to be fine, thick, or coarse and fall into one of four categories:

• straight
• wavy
• curly
• kinky

Each has its upsides and downsides. For example, straight hair usually looks and feels greasy quicker than curly hairTrusted Source due to oil speedily making its way down the hair shaft.

Whether your hair has been bleached, dyed, or otherwise chemically processed

If your hair has come in contact with dye, bleach, or chemicals, you may have to think extra hard about your routine.

People with dyed hair are advised not to wash it every day to prevent premature color facing trusted Sources and dryness.

And bleached hair may require some extra nourishmentTrusted Source in the form of conditioner or hair masks.

How do you want to wear your hair dai? ly

Do you like to straighten your hair? Curl it? Leave it completely natural?

It’s another thing you’ll have to consider, especially if you’re a fan of using damaging heat tools.

Whether you have specific concerns that you want to address

It’s normal to find at least one aspect of your hair problematic, whether it’s frizz, a flaky scalp, or dry, damaged strands.

Knowing what the problem is, is half the task. The rest involves finding the best solution.

However, every routine shares a few basic components

Although your hair type and concerns will alter your hair care routine in some ways, there are a few basic steps that every person can benefit from.

Cleanse

Cleansing is a balance between removing things like dead skin and product residueTrusted Source without stripping the hair of its natural oils.

Without a good wash, sebum will build up, leaving unwanted oiliness.

So will dead skin if not removed. The skin renews itself around every 28 daysTrusted Source, and this may be noticeable if the hair is not clean.

And, if you’re an avid swimmer, you don’t want to leave chlorine on your locks. The longer it sits, the more time it has to strip hair of its natural elements and cause damage.

Condition

Conditioners have myriad benefits. The main one is moisturizing, but others include detangling, shininess, and frizz reduction.

The main ingredient of a conditioner is called a cationic surfactantTrusted Source.

When hair is wet, this sticks to it, coating the strands to replenish the moisture that shampoo may have removed.

Moisturize and seal

To add further hydration to the hair, you may want to embark on a two-step process known as moisturizing and sealing.

This can be particularly useful for kinky or coily hair that tends to be dry.

The aim is to seal in moisture, not to lock in dryness, using a hydrating product and sealing oil.

Detangle

Detangling is essential for stopping breakage and for making your life a whole lot easier.

But you need to use the right tool, such as a wide-tooth comb, to avoid pulling hair out by mistake.

Depending on your hair type, you may need to detangle every day or much less often.

Style and protect

Thanks to several tools and tricks like volumizers and gels, you can style your hair practically any way you want.

But if you’re a fan of heated tools, you’ll need to protect those strands with a heat protection spray.

Spot-treat

Spot-treating hair simply means picking out a particular area that’s bothering you and doing something to remedy it.

For example, you’re fed up with how frizzy your hair is, so you try a protein treatment.

Or you’ve noticed that your scalp is feeling extra dry, so you apply a super nourishing product designed for that area.

The products and tools used in each step vary widely   

Although most people religiously stick to the above steps, there’s no set product or tool that you need to abide by.

Instead, experiment to find the ones that work for you.

Cleansing and conditioning

• Clarifying shampoo. A deep-working shampoo, clarifying formulas work to remove buildup from the hair. Restrict use to around once a month, as they can remove natural oils.
• “Daily” shampoo. Used for regular washing, this shampoo may not need to be applied daily as the name suggests, but whenever your hair feels like it needs a good to cleanse.
• “Daily” or rinse-out conditioner. The conditioner that you use the most is likely to rinse out after a couple of minutes. It’s best applied to the middle and ends, as root application can result in a greasy-looking scalp.
• Leave-in conditioner. With this kind of conditioner, you apply it in the same way but don’t rinse it out. This allows for an increased level of nourishment.
• Deep conditioner. For even more hydration, try a deep conditioner. Great for hair that’s prone to dryness, these conditioners are designed to be left in for longer.

Moisturizing and sealing

• Hair lotion. Once hair is cleansed and conditioned, a cream-based lotion can offer further protection from breakage and dryness. It also provides a light, non-stiff hold.
• Oil. When it comes to oil, a little goes a long way. Enhancing your hair’s natural oils, it locks in moisture and strengthens strands.

Detangling

• Comb. Wet hair can break more easily when brushed, although this doesn’t apply to textured or tightly curled hair types. A wide-tooth comb can be a less damaging alternative.
• Brush. Different types of brushes exist. Some find bristles to be too hard on their hair, so opt for a plastic version. Try not to brush your hair too much. Once a day is usually sufficient.
• Spray. If you find tears welling up when brushing or combing, apply a detangling spray beforehand.
• Serum. A richer way of managing those knots, a detangling serum can further condition hair and make it softer so combs seamlessly work their way through.

Styling and protecting

• Mousse. It sounds super retro, but modern mousse adds texture and volume to hair and can even enhance curls. What’s more, it doesn’t leave behind a sticky or clumpy feel.
• Wax. A thicker product, hair wax provides more hold while increasing shininess. Plus, it shouldn’t leave strands feeling stiff.
• Pomade. For a long-lasting, super shiny look, opt for pomade. This styling product should be used on damp hair, as it doesn’t dry, leaving you with a sleek finishing touch.
• Gel. Styling gel can give hair anything from light hold to a super strong one, depending on the product you use. All gels, however, provide a noticeable texture and shine.
• Dry shampoo. If your hair gets greasy pretty quickly but you don’t want to wash it every day, a little dry shampoo can get rid of unwanted oil. But it does tend to build up on the scalp, so try not to use too much.
• Volumizer. Hair looking limp? Volumizers lift hair away from the head to make your do look thicker while still feeling lightweight.
• Texturizer. This category can encompass everything from salt sprays to curl definers and is designed to add texture to the hair and preserve styles.
• Shine serum or spray. These products sit on the surface of the hair, resulting in that smooth, glossy look. Apply from the ends up to the middle.
• Hair spray. Today’s hair sprays come in various holding strengths and can even target concerns like frizz. Unlike years gone by, they don’t leave hair super stiff.
• Heat protection spray. Whether you’re using a hair dryer, straightener, or curling iron, you need to protect those strands. These sprays create a barrier to prevent exposure to extreme heat.

Treatments

• Scalp treatment. An exfoliating scalp treatment can unclog follicles, stimulate circulation for growth rested Source, and calm issues like itchiness. Use once or twice a month.
• Protein treatment. Frizzy or broken hair may need an extra dose of protein. These monthly treatments fill in gaps in the cuticle, strengthening and smoothing strands.
• Targeted mask. Often infused with nourishing ingredients, hair masks tend to be left on for several minutes to deeply replenish hair and remedy dryness, split ends, or frizz.

The order of your routine matters, and consistency is key

You’re not going to notice dramatic results overnight — although the effects of masks and certain styling products can be immediately noticeable.

It takes time for your hair to get used to new products. In some cases, this may be a week.

But dry or damaged hair may take at least a month to reap the benefits.

The order you apply products can also make a difference. While this does depend on your hair type and texture, there are a few general rules.

Shampoo, conditioner, and any in-shower products should be applied first, followed by heat protection, a volumizer or mousse, and shine serum.

Then you can dry and style your hair, setting it with a gel (or similar product) and hair spray.

Make sure your final styling product seals in moisture and helps keep hair healthy.

But when it comes to frequency of use, it’s best to consult a professional

There are no hard rules for how often you should use each product.

Some people wash their hair three times a week, while others cleanse once a week. And some do it even less.

When in doubt, ask a hair professional for personalized advice targeted to the products you use and the needs of your hair.

Your individual hair needs will naturally change over time

There’s a saying that hair changes texture every 7 years. Unlike most of the rumors floating around the internet, this one does have an element of truth behind it.

Hair grows in bundles, and these bundles start again every 7 years or so.

Over time, fewer strands appearTrusted Source, resulting in the thinning, weaker hair often associated with aging.

Hormones can also alter hair.

During pregnancy, for example, rising estrogen levels can slow down hair sheddingTrusted Source, resulting in thicker-seeming, shiny hair.

When levels of these kinds of hormones drop, hair loss can occur. Menopause, for example, is often linked to hair issues.

Noticing these changes and responding appropriately can keep your hair looking healthy.

A good rule of thumb is to swap products as the season's change  

You may also need to change up your routine at certain parts of the year.

When the winter months hit, many need to opt for products with extra hydrating properties. Thicker creams are also favored.

But in the warmer summer season, you may want to choose more lightweight formulas to help hair stay bouncy in the face of humidity.

Some general tips and tricks that benefit all hair types

Lastly, it’s worth knowing a few handy things that apply to any hair texture and concern.

Get regular trims

If your hair is looking unhealthy, it may be because it needs a snip.

Getting a hair cut every 6 to 8 weeks is considered to be beneficial for reducing breakage and split ends as well as growth.

Use warm, not hot, water

Dousing hair in hot water can dry it out and, if dyed, can quickly fade the color.

You don’t have to endure a freezing cold shower or bath. Just switch to lukewarm water instead.

Make sure you’re getting these nutrients in your diet

Even your diet can benefit your hair.

Protein — also known as hair’s building block — will only reach the hair if enough is consumed.

If you’re lacking in it, expect to notice brittleness and dryness.

Iron is also an important source of life for hair. When the body doesn’t have enough, hair growth can be affected trusted Source
.

Vitamins A and C are worth looking out for too. The former is needed to produce hair’s natural oils, while the latter aids collagen production from trusted Sources, thereby strengthening hair.

And don’t forget omega-3 fatty acids. These are needed for hydration and overall scalp health.

Go natural where possible

Letting your hair breathe can work wonders. This can involve restricting heat use by letting it air-dry and avoiding straighteners and curling irons.

Even putting hair up in a tight ponytail can cause strain, so leave it down to stop the pull.

And if you don’t need to use a styling product, don’t use it. That way, you’ll reduce residue buildup.

The bottom line

Figuring out a hair care routine may take a few days, if not a few weeks.

But once it’s sorted, you’re well on the way to getting the hair you deserve.

6 Ways to Make Your Dull Hair Shine

• Causes
• Clarify
• Add oil
• Use a shine spray
• Try supplements
• Go easy with the heat
• Use a humidifier
• Other tips
• Bottom line

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Dull hair tends to lack moisture, shine, and body. It can be caused by many factors, like using the wrong products, not getting enough nutrients in your diet, or overusing harsh chemicals or techniques.

Fortunately, there are ways to perk up dull-looking hair. By introducing some new techniques and home remedies and by using the right kinds of products, it’s possible to turn your lifeless locks into hair that’s healthier, glossier, and easier to style.

Not sure where to start? No problem. We asked the experts to share their tips on how to make dull hair shine.

What causes dull hair?

Dull hair tends to have certain characteristics: It typically lacks luster, has a rough or coarse feeling, and might look frizzy or feel heavy.

Dull hair happens for a variety of reasons, including:

• improper hair care techniques
• a diet that’s lacking in key nutrients
• too much sunlight or heat styling
• overprocessing with harsh chemicals
• environmental conditions, such as dry or cold air
• using too much product or the wrong products

Plus, many pregnant women report hair emergencies like dull, brittle hair. The good news is that it’s usually temporary and due to hormonal changes.

Remedies for dull hair

Almost everyone deals with dull and lackluster hair at some point. The weather, your diet, and your overall sense of well-being can all influence the health and vitality of your hair.

The following six remedies from experts are especially helpful for ditching dull-looking locks and ensuring your hair looks its healthiest, no matter what.

1. Clarify your hair with baking soda

“Hair can become dull over time because it has buildup and residue on it from using products,” said Gina Rivera, founder of Phenix Salon Suites. Rivera said that when this happens, it’s important to clarify your hair.

So, what does a clarifying treatment do? Essentially, it helps you get rid of product buildup, hard water residue, and any pollution that’s collected on your hair and scalp.

When your hair and scalp are exposed to these elements, they can accumulate and block the natural flow of oils and nutrients to the hair shaft. When this happens, it can weaken your hair and make it look dull and lifeless.

By removing the residue from products and the environment, clarifying treatments can help unclog the hair follicles and ensure that your hair is getting the nutrients and natural oils it needs to shine and thrive.

You can use a clarifying shampoo, or you can try a home treatment like the one outlined below.

Rivera suggests using this baking soda remedy two to three times per month if you have thick, coarse hair. If you have finer hair, you can wait longer between treatments.

How to use:

1. Add 2 to 4 tbsp. baking soda in a cup or shallow bowl. (Use 2 tbsp. for shorter hair and 4 tbsp. for longer hair.) Mix in water until the baking soda turns into a paste.
2. Massage the baking soda paste into your roots and scalp, then work toward the ends of your hair. Make sure to massage the paste into your hair shaft as you go.
3. Use a wide-tooth comb to distribute the paste throughout your hair.
4. Let the paste sit in your hair for about 5 minutes, then rinse your hair thoroughly and use your favorite conditioner.

2. Revive dry hair with oil

If your hair is feeling dry, celebrity hairstylist Michelle Parkes, owner of Core Salon, suggested amping up the moisture in your conditioner by adding the penetrating power of a therapeutic oil, like coconut oil or Moroccan argan oil.

Parkes likes using Cococare 100% Coconut Oil or 100% Natural Moroccan Argan Oil, which you can buy online.

Moroccanoil Treatment is another popular product that’s infused with argan and linseed oils to help nourish and strengthen hair. Buy it online.

How to use:

1. Mix the oil of your choice into your conditioner. How much oil you use depends on the texture of your hair. Try different amounts until you get the results you want.
2. Apply the conditioner as you normally would.
3. Leave it on a little longer than regular conditioner so it can soak in, then rinse your hair thoroughly.

To infuse extra moisture into your hair, you can try using the oil on its own instead of mixing it with your conditioner. This may be helpful if your hair is especially dry and frizzy.

For a really deep conditioning treatment, Parkes recommended slathering the oil onto your dry hair before bed.

“Once your hair looks wet like you just got out of the shower, wrap it or cover your head with a shower cap, and go to sleep,” she said. “You’ll be amazed at the results when you wash your hair in the morning.”

3. Add shine with a spray 

If you’re looking for a way to boost your hair’s shine quickly, Parkes suggested using a hair shine spray. These products are formulated to help restore radiance and reduce frizz.

You can ask your hairstylist for product recommendations or try Cococare Coconut Oil Hair Shine or Giovanni Shine of the Times Finishing Mist, which you can buy online.

How to use:

1. Style your hair as you normally would.
2. Lightly spray the product all over your hair. A little goes a long way; if you spray on too much, your hair may look greasy.
3. Use the spray throughout the day to tame flyaways and add more shine.

4. Try supplements

You can also treat dull or dry hair from the inside. That’s why Ona Diaz-Santin, stylist and owner of 5 Salon & Spa, recommended taking a vitamin and mineral supplement, such as Viviscal, which you can buy online.

Like many other over-the-counter hair supplements, Viviscal contains biotin, naturally occurring silica, and other key vitamins and minerals that support hair health.

HairAnew Healthy Hair Formula, which contains 11 active ingredients, is another popular hair supplement product. Buy it online.

5. Pay attention to heating tools

Heat styling tools can damage your hair, especially if it’s fine. It’s easy to burn fine hair if you set the temperature of your heating tools too high, Rivera warned. “Too much heat is never a good idea,” she said.

According to one study trusted Source, using a hair dryer causes more surface damage to your hair than natural drying does. You can reduce the risk of heat damage by holding the hair dryer at least 6 inches from your head and keeping the hair dryer moving.

To further limit any damage, go easy with how often you use heat styling tools and turn down the heat setting whenever possible.

Rivera recommended using heat styling tools that use infrared technology because they heat the hair from the inside to the outside, locking in moisture.

6. Use a humidifier

Indoor heating can cause your hair to look especially dull and lifeless during the colder months. Dry indoor air can also exacerbate some health conditions like the common cold, allergies, and dry skin.

To combat the drying effect of indoor heat, hair care experts recommend using a humidifier. By adding moisture to the air, a humidifier may help prevent your hair from losing moisture and looking dull and dry.

Other helpful tips for adding life to your hair

• Sleep on satin. One simple change you can make involves swapping out your current pillow covering for a satin pillowcase. Diaz-Santin said that sleeping on satin causes less friction, which leaves your hair looking smoother and healthier.
• Use the right bristles. Michael Canalé, a celebrity hair colorist, recommends using a hairbrush that has boar bristles, not metal ones. According to Canalé, boar bristles can close the hair cuticle and create more shine.
• Try a little sunflower oil. Diaz-Santin said that sunflower oil is a great source of vitamins and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Plus, it penetrates easily into the scalp. You may want to try moisturizing your hair and scalp with a small amount of sunflower oil the next time you wash your hair.
• Limit chemical treatments. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends spacing out treatments like coloring, perming, and relaxing. Try to stretch the time between touch-ups to at least 8 weeks, especially in the drier winter months. And you should wait at least 2 weeks between different types of treatments, such as relaxing and coloring.

The bottom line

Many factors can cause dull hair. Product buildup, environmental factors, and over-styling can all contribute to hair that looks dry and lifeless.

Fortunately, there are ways to add more shine and natural luster to your hair. Using basic home remedies, trying shine-boosting products, and nourishing your hair from the inside may all help. Avoiding too much heat and spacing out chemical treatments can be beneficial too.

If you don’t notice any improvement in the shine or health of your hair, make an appointment with a hairstylist. They can help you determine the best products and remedies for your hair type.

How Often Should You Wash Curly Hair? It Depends — Here’s What to Know

• The short answer
• Creating a schedule
• Choosing a shampoo
• Between washes
• Other tips
• Takeaway

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First things first: There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to caring for curly hair.

That’s because, in case you hadn’t noticed, there are many types of curls: loose waves, bouncy ringlets, and zigzag or fractal curls, just to name a few.

Knowing your curl type can help you figure out the best way to care for your curls, so here’s a quick rundown of the nine main types:

• Type 2A: fine, very loose waves
• Type 2B: large S-shaped waves
• Type 2C: mix of waves and curls, coarser and more prone to frizz
• Type 3A: large, loose, and defined curls
• Type 3B: medium-sized barrel curls
• Type 3C: pencil-sized spiral curls
• Type 4A: ultra-tight corkscrew curls
• Type 4B: tiny curls that bend in a zig-zag-shaped pattern
• Type 4C: kinkiest, densely packed curls in a tight zig-zag shape

Keep in mind that the higher you climb on the scale, the more vulnerable your curls are to breakage and frizz. In other words, 4B and 4C curls may need more TLC than 2A and 2B curls.

Get more details on different types of curls, plus other hair types.

Whatever your curl type, simply having curly locks means that sebum, the oil naturally produced on your scalp, has more difficulty traveling down the hair shaft.

This leaves curly hair more prone to dryness, so it has some special needs, according to Kerry E. Yates, a trichologist (hair and scalp treatment specialist) and CEO of Colour Collective.

Here’s what to know about washing and caring for your curly hair, including how often to shampoo, products best suited for curly hair, and what to do in between washes.

So, how often should you wash?

Aim to wash your curly hair anywhere from one to five times per week, recommends Lindsey Little, the owner of Lume Salon in Boston.

As you might have noticed, this timeframe is pretty broad — that’s because washing frequency depends on the texture and health of your hair, along with other factors, like exposure to the elements and how much you tend to sweat.

Little advises shampooing every other day at most, as a general rule.

If you have coarser hair, for example, you can probably get away with washing once per week — coarse hair tends to be “thirsty,” so to speak, so it’s less likely to get weighed down by oil.

Fine hair, on the other hand, can get weighed down by oil pretty quickly. That means you may want to wash fine curls a few times each week — unless, of course, your finer curls also tend toward the drier side. If you have drier hair, two or three washes per week might still be too many.

Again, we want to emphasize that all curls are different. That’s why experimenting with your washing schedule and paying careful attention to how your hair responds is pretty much essential.

When washing your hair, Little recommends focusing the shampoo lather on your scalp, where oil can build up. Avoid scrubbing the ends, where the oils from your scalp don’t reach.

“The natural oils from your scalp are actually the best conditioner for your hair, especially dry and curly textures,” Little says. “On the days that you don’t wash, you should still massage your scalp to stimulate those oils.”

Creating the right washing schedule for you

Not sure whether you should scale back on your weekly washes or wash your hair more often? Your hair itself can offer some clues to help you determine your best washing schedule.

As Kali Ferrara, a hairstylist at The Salon Project in New York City, explains:

• Washing curly hair too often results in a tight-feeling scalp and ultra-dry and frizzy strands.
• Not washing curly hair often enough makes your curls look greasy and limp.

What about a combination? Maybe your hair seems greasy at the scalp, but parched and brittle on the ends.

According to Ferrera, that’s another sign you might be overwashing. Excess washing strips your hair’s natural oils, so your scalp responds by producing more oil to compensate.

The wash doesn’t end when you turn off the water, either — post-washing hair care can also make a difference.

Little recommends:

• blotting your hair after washing to get the excess water out
• avoiding rubbing your hair, since that creates friction that leads to frizz
• using a wide-toothed comb or wet brush to get the tangles out
• applying any product you plan to use while your hair is still wet

Tip: Always use a microfiber towel for curly hair. Microfiber towels and wraps can leave you with more defined curls and cut back on frizz. Win-win, right?

Choosing the right shampoo

Whichever shampoo you choose, make sure it’s sulfate-free and paraben-free, according to Little.

• Sulfates are chemicals that can cause drynessTrusted Source, inflammation, and irritation rushed Source on your scalp while also over-stripping hair of its natural oils. Common sulfates in shampoo include sodium Laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate.
• Parabens are preservatives that can cause contact dermatitisTrusted Source, or skin irritation, on your scalp. Research from 2018Trusted Source also linked scalp concerns, like dermatitis and dandruff, to hair loss and reduced shine. Common parabens you’ll find in shampoo include butylparaben, propylparaben, and methylparaben.

What about alcohol?

Certain types of short-chain alcohols — like ethanol, SD alcohol, denatured alcohol, propanol, propyl alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol — can be super harsh and drying, Ferrara says.

Avoid hair care products with these alcohols whenever possible.

But you don’t need to avoid long-chain fatty alcohols, like Cetearyl alcohol and cetyl alcohol. These alcohols can smooth down the hair cuticle and seal the shaft, so hair stays hydrated and frizz-free.

Instead, opt for shampoos with moisturizing coconut, argan, and avocado oils — especially if your hair is coarse and dry, or damaged from bleaching and heat styling. These ingredients can help promote smoother, shinier curls.

Glycerin, another curl-friendly ingredient, can help promote hair health and hydration by pulling in moisture from the air. Research from 2014Trusted Source suggested glycerol may even help improve scalp health. (Glycerol typically refers to a pure compound of glycerin, though you’ll often notice these terms used interchangeably.

Here are some shampoos for curly hair that are recommended by experts:

• KEVIN.MURPHY Smooth.Again.Wash. According to Little, this shampoo helps any type of curls stay soft, glossy, and manageable, thanks to a blend of nourishing butters and oils, like sunflower seed extract, murumuru seed butter, and olive fruit oil.
• Innersense Organic Beauty Pure Harmony Hairbath. Yates likes this formula for fine to medium curls because it gently washes away dirt, grime, and styling residue while re-hydrating hair with a modest dose of coconut and avocado oil.
• Oribe Shampoo for Moisture & Control. Ferrara recommends this shampoo for medium to thick or damaged curls because it contains amino acids, like arginine, that strengthen, moisturize, and repair your hair.
• Virtue Labs Curl Shampoo. Yates picks this rich, non-drying formula for brittle, damaged hair because it features keratin protein that helps repair damage while preventing future breakage. It also contains jojoba oil to promote shine and carob gum to lock in moisture.

What to do between washes

Maybe you want to wash your hair less often, but you find yourself reaching for the shampoo bottle to address limp or lifeless strands.

If that’s the case for you, Ferrara suggests just rinsing and conditioning every other day, or between washes.

Wetting your hair allows the curl pattern to reset, while conditioning rehydrates your curls.

Little advises staying away from dry shampoos as much as possible. Since these products soak up oil, they’ll often end up dehydrating curls. On non-wash days, she recommends:

• a light conditioning spray to reactivate any other curl-enhancing styling products
• a shine spray to give dull curls a glossy finish

Other curly hair care tips

No matter your curl type, Little says everyone can benefit from a deep conditioning mask.

Aim to apply a hair mask:

• once per week if your hair is especially dry or damaged
• once or twice per month if your hair is healthier or on the oily side

When styling with a hairdryer, curling iron, or straightening iron, always use a heat protectant product to shield fragile curls from damage. Of course, cutting back on heat styling as much as possible can go a long way toward keeping curls healthy and damage-free.

Since ultraviolet (UV) rays can also dry out your curls, Little recommends wearing a hat or scarf when out in the sun or using a styling spray that contains UV filters.

Keep in mind, too, that chlorine strips away the natural oils in your curls, which can leave them feeling dry and rough. That’s why the American Academy of Dermatology advises protecting your hair by either wearing a swimming cap or wetting and conditioning your hair before you swim in a pool.

After swimming, a clarifying shampoo and deep conditioning mask can help get rid of excess chlorine in your hair, Little notes.

The bottom line

Curly hair requires some special considerations since it’s so prone to dryness.

Experts recommend washing your hair no more than every other day if you can, and as little as once per week if your hair is particularly parched.

Avoid products with harsh ingredients that strip away moisture, like sulfates, and seek out nourishing ingredients, like glycerin and plant oils.

Curls still seem a little blah between washes? Don’t underestimate the power of a water rinse and a spritz of shine spray to freshen your style.

Why Your Hair Feels Like Straw and How to Fix It

• Common causes
• Medical concerns
• Treatment
• Takeaway

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When your hair feels like straw, it’s usually due to a lack of moisture. Treatment typically depends on what’s causing the lack of moisture in your hair.

In this article, we’ll review the common causes of dry, brittle hair, and what you can do to fix the problem.

Why is my hair so dry and brittle?

Straw-like hair is often the result of common hair care oversights, such as these:

• using drying and styling tools (dryers, curling irons, electric rollers, flat irons) at too high a heat setting
• using heat-based drying and styling tools too frequently
• shampooing too often
• using a shampoo with harsh ingredients, such as sulfates, that are drying for your type of hair
• not using a conditioner often enough or one that’s designed for your type of hair
• not including a moisturizing hair mask in your hair care routine
• not being gentle enough when you detangle wet hair
• not eating a diet that has enough of the vitamins and minerals necessary to support hair health
• having your hair dyed or touched up too frequently
• not having your hair trimmed often enough, resulting in split ends
• not protecting your hair from the sun with a hat or using a product that protects against UV rays
• exposing your hair to certain environments, such as a hot, dry climate or the cold, dry air that can occur with a change of seasons
• overexposing your hair to chemicals, such as by spending a lot of time in a swimming pool

Could straw hair be a medical concern?

Dry and brittle hair could be an indication of a medical issue, such as:

• Hypothyroidism: When your thyroid gland isn’t producing enough thyroid hormone, one of the first symptoms can be dry and brittle hair.
• Hypoparathyroidism: When your body doesn’t produce enough parathyroid hormone, you might have a calcium deficiency, resulting in dry and brittle hair.
• An eating disorder: Many eating disorders result in malnutrition, which can lead to dry and brittle hair.

How to fix dry and brittle hair

The first step in repairing straw-like hair is to address your hair care routine. Consider adjusting your behavior and the products you’re using. For example:

• try lowering the heat setting on your hair drying and styling tools and using them less frequently
• select a shampoo that’s appropriate for your hair type and reduce your shampooing frequency
• choose a conditioner that’s appropriate for your hair type and use it often
• protect your hair from the sun’s UV rays and other environmental factors by wearing a hat, scarf, or other head covering
• adjust your diet to include nutritional foods that support healthy hair

If you don’t see results from lifestyle and product changes, make an appointment to see a primary care doctor or dermatologist. They may have other suggestions regarding your hair care. They might also test for underlying medical conditions.

Takeaway

If your hair feels like straw, it’s most likely a problem with moisture. This can typically be repaired by changing your usual hair products and your hair care routine.

If product and lifestyle changes don’t fix the problem, see your doctor or dermatologist. They may test for potential medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or hyperparathyroidism.

Want Stronger, Healthier Hair? Try These 10 Tips

• Turn down the heat
• Take vitamins
• Use less shampoo
• Massage your scalp
• Eat more protein
• Make an egg yolk mask
• Use a cool rinse
• Apply aloe
• Dry with a tee
• Try an oil treatment
• Bottom line

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Everybody wants hair that’s strong, shiny, and easy to manage. But it can be challenging to get to that place. Most of us have to deal with some sort of hair issue that stands in the way of a healthy head of locks.

Genes do play a role when it comes to your hair type, strength, and volume. But that doesn’t mean you have no control over your hair.

In this article, we’ll look at 10 steps you can take to help strengthen your strands, boost hair growth, and enhance the look, feel, and health of your hair.

1. Dial down the heat

Blow dryers, straightening irons, hot curlers, and other heated styling tools can take a toll on your hair, especially if your hair is fine, dry, or prone to breakage. Too much heat can weaken your hair, resulting in strands that are damaged or frizzy.

To limit damage from hair drying, researchers who conducted a 2011study trusted Source recommend holding the blow dryer about 6 inches away from the surface of your hair, and keeping the dryer moving and not concentrated on one spot.

Limit your blow-drying and other heated styling sessions to two or three times a week to give your hair time to recover in between each session.

Set your dryer and other heated styling tools to a lower heat setting to reduce the chance of hair damage. You may also want to consider using a heat protectant product on your hair to minimize damage.

2. Boost your vitamin intake

Like the rest of your body, your hair needs specific vitamins and minerals to be healthy and strong. ResearchTrusted Source has shown that nutritional deficiencies may be linked to hair loss.

The vitamins and minerals that may be most important for hair growth are:

• Vitamin A: is found in sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, spinach, milk, eggs, and yogurt
• B vitamins, especially biotin: are found in egg yolk, liver, salmon, avocados, nuts and seeds, and dairy products
• Vitamin C: good sources include citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers
• Vitamin D: found in fatty fish, egg yolk, and fortified foods like milk and orange juice
• Vitamin E: good sources include sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, and avocados
• Iron: found in oysters, clams, eggs, red meat, lentils, and spinach
• Zinc: good sources include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils

If it’s difficult to get the necessary nutrients from the foods you eat, you may want to consider taking a multivitamin that includes these vitamins and minerals.

However, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider before taking any supplements, especially biotin. ResearchTrusted Source shows that excessive biotin intake can affect laboratory test results, such as tests designed to detect heart attacks.

3. Go easy on the shampoo

Keeping your hair clean is important. But most shampoos use ingredients that strip away your hair’s natural oils to reduce oiliness and remove dirt.

Unless your hair is extremely oily, you can probably cut back to washing with shampoo two to three times a week instead of every day. Washing your hair too frequently may dry it out and possibly weaken the hair shaft.

Also, don’t use too much shampoo. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you only need a quarter-sized amount of shampoo, applied mostly to your scalp, to clean your hair.

4. Massage your scalp

Revving up the blood circulation in your scalp may help boost the health and condition of your scalp, and also increase blood flow to the hair follicles.

According to a small 2016study trusted Source, a 4-minute daily scalp massage may have the ability to increase hair thickness and strength over time.

You can massage your own scalp by applying pressure in circular motions with your fingertips for several minutes. You can do this on dry hair or when your hair is wet, just before you apply shampoo.

You can also buy a scalp massager. This handheld, brush-like devices work to stimulate your scalp.

5. Up the protein in your diet

Getting enough protein in your diet is important for hair growth, as hair follicles consist mostly of protein. ResearchTrusted Source shows that a lack of protein in the diet can result in hair thinning and hair loss.

Protein-rich foods that may help boost hair health include:

• eggs
• fish, like mackerel and salmon
• nuts and seeds
• lean meats
• spinach and kale
• beans and legumes

6. Try an egg yolk mask

Egg yolk contains the same proteins that make up a strong hair follicle. And, according to a 2018study trusted Source, the peptides in egg yolk may help stimulate hair growth.

Egg yolk also contains several essential nutrients that have been linked to trusted Sources for hair growth and healthy hair, including vitamins A and D, biotin, and folate.

You can make your own egg yolk mask by following these steps:

1. Use 3 egg yolks and 3–4 tbsp. of slightly warm coconut oil.
2. Mix the two ingredients together well.
3. Once the mixture is well-blended, apply it to your scalp and roots.
4. Put a shower cap over your head once the mixture has been applied.
5. Let it sit on your head for 10–15 minutes.
6. Rinse it out with cool water.

7. Use a cool rinse

Showering with water that’s too hot may cause heat damage to your hair, both at the root and on the cuticle. Steam in the shower can open up the cuticles on your hair, which may result in hair that’s dry, frizzy, and prone to breakage.

To protect your hair, lather up with lukewarm water. Then, finish your shower with a spray of cool water on your hair and scalp. This may help seal your hair cuticle, making it easier for your hair to retain moisture.

8. Use aloe vera on your hair and scalp

Aloe vera is rich in vitamins A, C, and ETrusted Source. These vitamins may help promote healthy cell growth, including the cells in your hair. In addition, aloe vera also contains vitamin B-12 and folic acid, both of which may help promote healthy hair.

However, it’s unclear if these beneficial vitamins actually penetrate the scalp upon topical application of aloe vera.

You can apply the pure gel of the aloe plant to your hair and scalp, or look for hair products that contain aloe vera ingredients. You can also make your own aloe vera hair mask for extra conditioning.

9. Swap your towel for a T-shirt

According to hair care experts, rubbing your wet hair with a terry-cloth towel after washing can cause hair damage and breakage due to the friction that’s created between the towel and your hair.

You can opt for a microfiber towel, or an easier and cheaper solution is to use a simple cotton T-shirt.

The smooth T-shirt fabric will create less friction when drying and, therefore, less damage and frizz. To use a tee on your hair, follow these steps:

1. After washing and rinsing, gently squeeze sections of your hair to remove as much water as possible.
2. Bend your head forward and wrap the T-shirt around your head in a turban style.
3. Leave your damp hair wrapped in the shirt for 5–10 minutes, then unwrap.
4. Gently squeeze the T-shirt around any sections of hair that have excess moisture, then dry and style as usual.

10. Try a hot oil treatment

Hot oil treatments are a popular choice for helping to restore moisture to dry, frizzy, or damaged hair.

A coconut and avocado oil treatment may be especially beneficial. According to a 2003study trusted Source, coconut oil can reduce protein loss in both damaged and undamaged hair.

Like coconut oil, avocado oil also contains essential fatty acids as well as vitamins A, B-5, and E.

To make your own hot oil treatment, follow these steps:

1. Mix together 1–2 tbsp. virgin coconut oil (room temperature) and 1–2 tbsp. avocado oil. You can use more or less, depending on how long your hair is, but keep the ratio of both oils roughly equal.
2. Put the oil mixture in a glass jar, and gently lower it into a pot of hot water.
3. Allow the oil to melt together and warm inside the jar for about 2 minutes. You don’t want the oil to be too hot, just slightly warm and well-mixed.
4. Test the temperature on the back of your wrist. It should be lukewarm, not hot. If the oil appears to be hot, don’t risk touching it. Wait until it’s cooled.
5. Once the oil mixture is at a safe temperature, apply it to your scalp, roots of your hair, and ends. Work the oil into the rest of your hair.
6. Apply a shower cap and allow the oil to penetrate your hair for 20 minutes.
7. Rinse well with lukewarm water.

The bottom line

Achieving strong, healthy hair requires work on all fronts.

While minimizing heat damage and overwashing is important, what you put into your body counts too. Eating a balanced diet that includes a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and sources of protein can help boost the health of your hair and scalp.

If you notice that your hair has become prone to breakage or that you’re losing more hair than usual, it’s worth mentioning it to your doctor. Hair loss is normal for many men and women, but it can sometimes indicate an underlying health condition.