Hair Getting Brittle and Dry: What to Know

Heat, bleaching, colouring, frequent washing, friction, sun exposure, and unsuitable products can roughen the outer cuticle. Some people also notice dryness with scalp conditions, hormonal changes, restricted eating, or an underlying health problem.

Hair that feels rough, frays at the ends, tangles easily, or snaps during brushing is showing shaft damage. Hair that sheds from the root may look different: you may notice longer strands with a bulb-like end rather than short broken pieces. Scalp itch, flakes, soreness, or patches of reduced density suggest that the scalp also needs attention.

The timing matters. A change after bleaching or heat styling points toward external damage, while new dryness with fatigue, weight change, digestive symptoms, or widespread shedding merits a medical review.

Use a gentle cleanser, apply conditioner through the lengths, and detangle from the ends upward with a wide-tooth comb. Blot rather than rub with a towel. Lower the heat setting, keep hot tools moving, and allow hair to dry partly before styling. Space out chemical services and protect hair from strong sun, salt water, and chlorinated water.

Do not start high-dose supplements simply because hair feels dry. A clinician can review your diet, medicines, scalp findings, and pattern of shedding before suggesting blood tests or a targeted plan. Hair Supplement Therapy may be considered when a confirmed deficiency or other suitable indication supports it.

Book an appointment if the problem persists despite gentler care, affects hair close to the scalp, or comes with substantial shedding, bald patches, scalp pain, inflammation, or persistent scaling. Seek prompt advice when brittle hair appears alongside significant illness symptoms or after a medicine change.

Is this breakage, shedding from the root, or both? Could my scalp or a recent chemical service explain the change? Do my symptoms suggest a nutritional or medical cause? Would testing be useful before taking a supplement? What hair-care changes should I continue, and when should I expect a review?