Why Is My Hair Frizzy When Wet?

Frizz occurs when the cuticle layer of your hair becomes raised, allowing moisture to enter the hair shaft and disrupt the natural pattern of the hair strands. When your hair is wet, the water causes the cuticle layer to swell and lift, which can lead to frizz.

There are several reasons why some people experience frizz more than others when their hair is wet:

1. Hair texture: People with curly or wavy hair are more prone to frizz because their hair is naturally more porous, allowing moisture to enter the hair shaft more easily.

2. Humidity: High humidity can exacerbate frizz because it adds moisture to the air, which can penetrate the hair shaft and cause it to expand.

3. Heat damage: If you use heat styling tools such as flat irons or blow dryers, or if you regularly expose your hair to the sun, your hair may be more prone to frizz when it is wet.

4. Product buildup: Buildup from hair products such as hairspray or mousse can create a barrier on the hair shaft, preventing moisture from entering and causing frizz.

To help prevent frizz when your hair is wet, you can try using a leave-in conditioner or a frizz-fighting styling product that contains ingredients such as silicone or argan oil. You can also try using a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently blot your hair dry instead of rubbing it vigorously with a regular towel, which can cause the cuticle layer to lift and create more frizz.

How to Get Rid of Wet Frizz?

If you're dealing with wet frizz, there are a few things you can try to help reduce it:

1. Use a wide-toothed comb: Use a wide-toothed comb instead of a brush to detangle your hair when it's wet. This will help to minimize the amount of pulling and tugging on your hair, which can cause frizz.

2. Apply a leave-in conditioner: Apply a leave-in conditioner to your hair when it's still damp, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. This can help to provide extra moisture to your hair and keep the cuticle layer smooth and flat, reducing frizz.

3. Use a microfiber towel: Instead of rubbing your hair dry with a regular towel, use a microfiber towel or an old t-shirt to gently blot your hair. This can help to remove excess moisture without causing the cuticle layer to lift and create more frizz.

4. Apply a styling product: Apply a styling product to your hair that is designed to fight frizz, such as a serum or a cream. Be sure to use only a small amount of product, as too much can weigh your hair down and cause it to look greasy.

5. Avoid touching your hair: Once you've applied your styling product and dried your hair, avoid touching it as much as possible. Touching your hair can cause the cuticle layer to lift and create frizz.

6. Use a diffuser: If you're blow drying your hair, use a diffuser attachment on your hair dryer. This can help to distribute the heat more evenly and reduce the amount of frizz that's caused by heat damage.

Remember that everyone's hair is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different products and techniques to find what works best for your hair.