What should you know about brittle and frizzy hair?

Frizz happens when strands do not lie smoothly together. Humidity, dryness, friction and damage to the hair’s protective outer layer can make individual hairs lift away from the style. Hair that has been bleached, relaxed, heat-styled or brushed roughly may feel coarse and snap as well as frizz. Curly and coily patterns can show this more visibly because bends increase contact and friction. Frizz alone is not proof of a disease.

Condition after cleansing and use a leave-in product if it helps reduce tangling. Blot rather than rub with a towel, detangle gently while hair has slip, and avoid repeatedly brushing dry curls or coils. Lower the temperature of heated tools and allow hair to dry partly before styling. Limit overlapping chemical services, tight ponytails and rough fabrics. A small amount of smoothing product can reduce surface friction; stop if the scalp becomes itchy or inflamed. Discuss supplements with a clinician rather than treating breakage by guesswork.

Book an assessment if snapping is spreading, the scalp is sore or scaly, or you notice thinning, a widening part or defined patches. Seek prompt care for painful inflammation, crusting, pus or sudden loss. A dermatologist can distinguish shaft damage from shedding at the root and tailor advice to the hair and scalp pattern.

Is the frizz caused mainly by shaft damage, dryness or my hair pattern? Is the hair breaking or shedding from the root? Which products, treatments or tests would be useful for my symptoms?