Gray hair is a common occurrence as we age, but premature graying can also result from various underlying conditions. The pigmentation changes in gray hair are accompanied by a decrease in sebum production, which reduces moisture content. As a result, the hair cuticles weather and become porous, leading to dryness and frizz.
Effective management of frizzy gray hair requires careful attention and proper care. Here are some recommended methods to minimize frizz and make gray hair more manageable:
Regular Trimming
Trimming your hair every six to eight weeks can prevent split ends. Hair ends are prone to damage due to lack of natural oils, so trimming them can help prevent further damage and frizz.
Avoid Hair Accessories
Gray hair should be handled with care, avoiding any tight ties or clips that can cause hair breakage and aggravate frizz. Opt for relaxed hairstyles and gentle accessories like silk hair bands and scrunchies.
Use Gentle Hair Care Products
Choose hair care products that do not contain drying ingredients such as alcohol or SLS. Natural, SLS-free shampoos with mild surfactants such as cocamidopropyl betaine are recommended. Hydrating conditioners and hair masks containing plant oils like shea butter, argan, jojoba, and coconut oils can help keep the strands moisturized and minimize frizz.
Avoid Hot Showers
Use lukewarm or room temperature water to wash your hair to prevent damage to the cuticles and further dryness and breakage. Cold water can help flatten the cuticles and keep the hair smooth and soft.
Handle Wet Hair Gently
Wet hair is prone to damage, so avoid twisting and rubbing it with a towel. Instead, wrap it in a microfiber towel and air-dry it.
Minimize Heat Styling
Reduce the use of a blow dryer or other heat styling tools as much as possible, as the heat can aggravate frizz. Use a cool setting and gradually increase the heat level to achieve the desired style.
Remove Hair Accessories Before Bedtime
Allow your hair to breathe and prevent traction by removing all hair accessories before bed.
Avoiding common mistakes in gray hair care can also help minimize frizz and maintain overall hair health:
Mistake 1: Not Maintaining the Scalp pH
Maintaining the proper pH level is crucial for hair and scalp health. The scalp has a pH of 4.5 – 5.5 and is alkaline compared to the hair shafts. Using hair products with a slightly higher pH than the normal scalp pH is recommended to prevent hair breakage.
Mistake 2: Not Following a Proper Night Hair Care Routine
Applying serums and oils and taking measures to avoid friction during the night is essential for maintaining overall hair health. Detangle your hair, wrap it in a satin or silk scarf, and use hair serums and treatments to provide additional moisture and manage frizz.
Mistake 3: Not Drinking Enough Water Throughout the Day
Dehydration affects hair health, and lack of moisture can cause frizz, itchiness, hair fall, and breakage. Drinking at least 2.7 liters of fluid per day is recommended.
Mistake 4: Not Oiling Hair Regularly
Oiling is essential to replenish lost moisture and nourishment in gray hair. Weekly oil massages with argan, jojoba, and coconut oils can help prevent dryness and frizz.
Mistake 5: Using Hair Products With Harmful Chemicals
Hair products containing harsh chemicals and synthetic preservatives can cause dryness and frizz, leaving residue on the scalp. Use gentle products suitable for your hair type, and consider using a clarifying shampoo once
article written by Shierley Koval