Fresh hair: Why it happens and how to actually get rid of it
Frizz is not a sign of bad hair. It’s a sign that your hair is looking for moisture. When the hair’s outer cuticle layer is dry or damaged, it opens up to the humidity in the surrounding air and absorbs moisture unevenly, resulting in the swollen, undefined hair we call frizz.
Understanding the mechanism makes it easier to solve the problem.
Moisturize from the inside out
The most common mistake is trying to fight frizz with products that sit on the surface of the hair without actually adding moisture. Silicones give temporary shine but don’t solve the underlying problem. Hair needs moisture inside the hair shaft, not a coating on the outside.
Choose a sulfate-free shampoo that doesn’t strip the hair of its natural oils, and follow up with a conditioner that actually penetrates the hair shaft. FOAM’s shampoo bars are formulated with organic coconut oil and grapeseed oil, which moisturize without weighing hair down.
Handle your hair gently
Friction is frizz’s best friend. A stiff brush, a cotton pillowcase, and rough towel-drying put mechanical stress on the cuticle layer and make the problem worse.
Switch to a wide-tooth comb or a soft natural-bristle brush. Pat your hair dry with a microfiber towel or a soft T-shirt instead of rubbing it. And swap your cotton pillowcase for one made of satin or silk—it reduces friction against your hair overnight and makes a noticeable difference to frizz and shine. To learn more about the difference between these materials, read our guide to silk pillowcases and what they do for your hair and skin.
The Editor’s Note: Frizz often increases when the seasons change and humidity shifts quickly. If you notice your hair getting frizzier in fall and winter, it’s a sign that it needs more moisture, not more products.
Protect against external factors
UV radiation, wind, and dry indoor air dry out your hair and make frizz worse. In summer, a hat or scarf helps protect your hair from the sun. In winter, dry indoor air can be countered with regular deep conditioning.
Scalp massage stimulates sebum production and helps your hair stay naturally moisturized from within.
Frizz doesn’t have to be part of your everyday life. It’s your hair’s way of asking for more care, and when you listen, you’ll notice the difference.