In the same way your skincare routine needs moisture, so does your hair care routine. Dry hair is limp and lifeless and can lead to frustrations like split ends, frizz, breakage and even hindered hair growth. If your mane is frizzy, lacking in shape, and hopelessly dry, there’s only one fix. And that’s by adding moisture. If you’re on a mission to rescue dry hair you’ve come to the right place. We’re telling you how to moisturize your hair — including everything you need to know for strong, shiny, healthy hair, ahead!

 

What Causes Dry Hair?

Several factors contribute to dry hair, and understanding what they are is the first step to fixing it. Hair strands require a balance of natural oils to stay hydrated, but factors like excessive washing, exposure to harsh weather conditions, and the use of certain styling products can strip away these essential oils, leaving you with frizzy hair. These are the most common causes of dry hair.

 

Genetics

The tight curl pattern of natural hair hinders the natural oils in the scalp from easily making their way down the hair shaft. Curly hair also has a bent cuticle layer that tends to lose moisture more rapidly than straighter strands, making this hair type genetically predisposed to becoming dry.

 

Harsh Shampoos

Sulfates are cleansing agents often found in shampoos. But they’re extremely harsh and can strip the hair of moisture. Even with a sulfate-free shampoo, over-washing can zap the moisture from your hair. 

 

Heat Styling

Hair has a hard time withstanding the heat of flat irons, curlers, and blow dryers. The more you use these hot tools to style, the more likely you’re drying out your hair. Have a few air dry hairstyles on hand and use a deep conditioner regularly.

 

UV Damage

Another similarity between your skin and your hair is their susceptibility to UV ray damage. Direct heat from the sun can cause moisture loss in your hair. Not only do UV rays dry out your hair, but they can also affect its ability to retain moisture.