Finally, frizz can also arise from damage caused by aggressive styling or chemical processes, like color treatments, says Livermore.
Does anything really help frizzy hair?
Anything that smoothes the cuticle of the hair can help control frizz. Silicones tend to be among the best ingredients for this, as “they lubricate the hair, smooth the cuticle down, and seal it closed,” says Livermore.
Also, certain styles lend themselves to frizz control. “You can cut down on frizz by blow drying and/or flat ironing your hair,” Nast says. “This will help to close the hair cuticle, protecting it from absorbing moisture.” However, be sure to prep hair with a heat protectant first, or else the resulting damage will only incur more frizz over time.
Extending your time between washes can also be helpful. “Even shampoo can slightly open and swell the cuticle,” says Livermore. “That’s why we use a conditioner afterwards—to close it back down and smooth it.” He also recommends rinsing with cold water, which can help (temporarily) seal the cuticle.
What to look for in products for frizzy hair
Silicones, such as dimethicone, are a good place to start. However, you might also want to consider a silicone-free formula, especially if your hair is wavy or curly. “Because some silicones aren’t water-soluble and can build up on the hair, many people with curly textures prefer silicone-free products,” says Livermore. As washing hair can remove moisture, those with curls tend to wash less—leading to more potential buildup from silicones.
Both Nast and Livermore recommend seeking out nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, argan oil, and jojoba oil. “These have a rich moisturizing ability that usually helps tame and smooth big, frizzy hair down,” Livermore says. Nast also points to hydrolyzed keratin as a good option, especially if you have heat or chemical damage; not only does it help repair, but it also smooths the cuticles, she says.
Ultimately, the best way to address frizz is not to let it occur in the first place. To that end,
“always use a heat protectant, make sure you are not over-shampooing, add a deep conditioner to your weekly routine, and get regular trims,” says Nast.
Meet the experts
- Adam Livermore is a celebrity hairstylist whose clients include Cher and Jennifer Lopez. He’s also an Oribe global artist.
- Jennifer Nast is a hairstylist at Sharon Dorram Color at Sally Hershberger Salon in New York City
