What Causes Frizzy Coily Hair?
Frizzy coily hair is a common struggle for those with naturally curly and coily hair textures. There are several factors that can contribute to frizz:
Hair Porosity
Hair porosity refers to how well your hair absorbs and retains moisture. High porosity hair has gaps in the cuticle layer, allowing moisture to easily enter but also quickly escape, leading to dryness and frizz. Low porosity hair resists moisture absorption, so products sit on top which can also cause frizz.
Dryness
Curly and coily hair tends to be drier than straight hair because the natural oils from the scalp have a harder time traveling down the curved hair shaft. When hair lacks moisture, it seeks humidity from the air, causing the cuticle to swell and create frizz.
Damage
Heat styling, chemical treatments, rough handling, and environmental factors can damage the hair cuticle. A raised cuticle makes hair look dull, feel rough, and appear frizzy.
Humidity
Humidity is frizzy hair’s greatest foe. In humid environments, dry hair will absorb the excess moisture in the air, causing the hair shaft to swell and leading to undefined, poofy curls.
Genetics
Your genes determine your hair texture and how prone it is to frizz. Those with curly and coily hair naturally have more frizz than those with straight hair due to the shape and structure of the strands.
Understanding the main causes of frizzy hair – porosity, dryness, damage, humidity, and genetics – is the first step in learning how to manage and embrace your natural texture while minimizing frizz.
How to Detangle Curly Hair When Wet?
Detangling is a crucial step in any curly hair routine, but it can lead to breakage and frizz if done improperly. Here’s how to gently detangle wet curly hair:
Saturate hair with water
Before detangling, wet hair thoroughly in the shower or with a spray bottle until it is fully saturated. Curly hair is more fragile when dry, so detangling while wet allows the hair to stretch without breaking.
Apply conditioner or detangler
Generously apply a slippery conditioner or detangling product to provide “slip” and lubricate the hair, making it easier to detangle. Look for products with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or glycerin.
Section hair
Divide hair into four or more sections to make detangling more manageable. Clip or twist the sections to keep them separate as you work through each one.
Use a wide-tooth comb or detangling brush
Wide-tooth combs and detangling brushes designed for curly hair are gentler than fine-tooth combs or brushes. They help prevent breakage and minimize disruption to the curl pattern.
Start from the ends
Begin detangling at the ends of your hair and work your way up gently to avoid causing tangles further up the strand. Hold hair taut at the roots to prevent tugging on the scalp.
Be patient
Go slowly and be gentle to avoid ripping through tangles. If you encounter a stubborn knot, use your fingers to gently pull it apart. Detangling curly hair requires patience and should not be rushed.
Rinse with cool water
After detangling, rinse hair with cool water to seal the cuticle and reduce frizz.
Following these steps and using plenty of conditioner or detangler can minimize breakage and maintain healthy curls while detangling wet hair. Be gentle, work in sections, and use tools designed for curly hair to prevent damage.
What Pre-Styling Routine Should I Follow for Frizz Control?
An effective pre-styling routine sets the foundation for frizz-free curls. Here are the key steps:
Cleanse with a sulfate-free shampoo
Sulfates can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness and frizz. Choose a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo that won’t disrupt the hair’s moisture balance.
Deep condition regularly
Using a deep conditioning treatment or hair mask at least once a week can provide intense hydration to combat frizz. Look for products with nourishing ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, or avocado oil.
Apply a leave-in conditioner
After washing, apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner to damp hair. This provides an extra layer of moisture and protection against frizz.
Use a microfiber towel or t-shirt
Traditional terry cloth towels can rough up the hair cuticle and cause frizz. Instead, gently squeeze excess water from hair with a microfiber towel or soft t-shirt.
Style on damp hair
Avoid styling hair when it is soaking wet, as this can lead to shrinkage and frizz. Allow hair to air dry until it is damp before applying styling products.
Protect hair overnight
Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase or wearing a satin bonnet can reduce friction and prevent frizz and tangles overnight.
By following a consistent pre-styling routine that focuses on moisture, gentle handling, and protection, you can create a solid base for your styling products and techniques to effectively combat frizz.
What Styling Products Work Best for Frizzy Coily Hair?
Choosing the right styling products is key to managing frizz and defining curls. Here are some of the best options for coily hair:
Leave-in conditioner
A leave-in conditioner provides extra moisture and helps detangle hair. Look for a lightweight formula that won’t weigh curls down.
Curl cream
Curl creams provide definition and moisture to combat frizz. They often contain nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or jojoba oil.
Gel
Gels provide strong hold and definition for curls. Choose a gel with humectants like glycerin or aloe vera to attract moisture and reduce frizz.
Mousse
Mousses can add volume and definition to curls without weighing them down. Look for a mousse with moisturizing ingredients to help combat frizz.
Oil
Sealing the ends of your hair with a lightweight oil like jojoba, argan, or sweet almond can help prevent frizz and add shine.
When applying styling products, use the “praying hands” method to smooth products over the hair rather than raking them through, which can disrupt the curl pattern and create frizz. Experiment with different product combinations to find what works best for your specific hair type and porosity.
| Product | Benefits | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Leave-in conditioner | Moisture, detangling | All curl types |
| Curl cream | Definition, moisture | Dry, frizzy curls |
| Gel | Strong hold, definition | Coily, kinky curls |
| Mousse | Volume, lightweight hold | Fine, thin curls |
| Oil | Sealing, shine | High porosity curls |
What Styling Techniques Can Tame Frizzy Hair?
In addition to using the right products, employing proper styling techniques can make a big difference in reducing frizz and defining curls.
Plopping
Plopping is a technique that uses a soft t-shirt or microfiber towel to absorb excess water and encourage curl formation. After applying styling products to wet hair, flip your head upside down onto the center of the t-shirt or towel. Wrap the fabric around your head and secure it. Leave it on for 10-20 minutes before air drying or diffusing.
Finger coiling
For tighter, more defined curls, try finger coiling. Apply styling products to damp hair, then take small sections of hair and wrap them around your finger to form a coil. Continue throughout your entire head.
Diffusing
If you prefer to use a blow dryer, use a diffuser attachment to minimize frizz and speed up drying time. Cup your curls in the diffuser and use low heat and speed settings. Avoid touching your hair too much while drying.
Pineappling
To protect curls overnight, try the pineapple method. Gather hair loosely at the top of your head and secure with a scrunchie or soft hair tie. This keeps curls off your face and neck and prevents flattening and frizz.
Banding
For stretched, elongated curls, try banding. Apply styling products, then divide hair into four to six sections. Secure each section with a snag-free elastic at the base, middle, and end. Leave the bands in overnight or until hair is fully dry.
The main step to reducing frizz is handling curls gently and minimizing disruption to the natural curl pattern. Experiment with different styling techniques to find what works best for your hair type and desired look.
How Can I Protect My Curls Overnight for Frizz-Free Hair?
Protecting your curls while you sleep is crucial for maintaining defined, frizz-free hair. Here are some tips:
Use a satin or silk pillowcase
Cotton pillowcases can absorb moisture from your hair and create friction that leads to frizz and tangles. Switching to a satin or silk pillowcase can minimize this friction and help your curls retain moisture.
Sleep in a satin or silk bonnet
Wearing a satin or silk bonnet or scarf can protect your curls from rubbing against your pillowcase and getting flattened or frizzy. Make sure the bonnet is not too tight, as this can cause creasing.
Pineapple your hair
The pineapple method involves gathering your hair loosely at the top of your head and securing it with a scrunchie or soft hair tie. This keeps your curls off your face and neck and prevents them from getting flattened.
Refresh with a spray bottle
In the morning, lightly mist your hair with water from a spray bottle to reactivate your styling products and refresh your curls. Avoid touching your hair too much, as this can create frizz.
Apply a lightweight oil
Before bed, apply a small amount of lightweight oil like jojoba or argan to your ends to seal in moisture and prevent frizz.
By protecting your curls overnight, you can extend the life of your wash and go and wake up with defined, frizz-free hair. Experiment with different methods to find what works best for your hair type and sleeping style.
How Do I Refresh Curls Between Wash Days?
Refreshing curls between wash days can help maintain definition and minimize frizz. Here are some tips:
Mist with water
Using a spray bottle, lightly mist your hair with water to reactivate your styling products. Focus on the areas that need the most refreshing, like the roots or ends.
Apply a lightweight leave-in conditioner
After misting with water, apply a small amount of lightweight leave-in conditioner to add moisture and help detangle any knots or tangles.
Re-style with a curl cream or gel
If your curls need more definition, apply a small amount of curl cream or gel to the sections that need it most. Use the “praying hands” method to smooth the product over your hair.
Scrunch out the crunch
If your hair feels crunchy or stiff from your styling products, gently scrunch your curls with your hands to soften them and create a more natural look.
Fluff your roots
If your roots are looking flat, use your fingers to gently fluff them up and create more volume. Be careful not to disturb the rest of your curls too much.
Protect your curls at night
To maintain your refreshed curls, protect them at night using the pineapple method or a satin bonnet or pillowcase.
With refreshing your curls between wash days, you can extend the life of your wash and go and maintain defined, frizz-free curls.
What Steps Can I Take to Avoid Future Frizz?
Preventing frizz starts with a healthy hair care routine and good habits. Here are some steps you can take to minimize frizz in the future:
Deep condition regularly
Deep conditioning treatments provide intense hydration that can help combat frizz. Aim to deep condition at least once a week, using a hair mask or deep conditioner with nourishing ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, or avocado oil.
Avoid heat styling
Heat styling tools like flat irons and curling wands can damage the hair cuticle and lead to frizz. If you must use heat, apply a heat protectant and use the lowest temperature setting possible.
Protect your hair while you sleep
Sleeping on a satin or silk pillowcase or wearing a satin bonnet can reduce friction and prevent frizz and tangles overnight.
Trim your ends regularly
Split ends can travel up the hair shaft and cause frizz. Trimming your ends every 6-8 weeks can help keep your hair healthy and minimize frizz.
Use a humidifier
If you live in a dry climate, using a humidifier in your home can help add moisture to the air and prevent your hair from drying out and getting frizzy.
Avoid touching your hair
Constantly touching or playing with your hair can disrupt your curl pattern and create frizz. Try to keep your hands off your hair as much as possible.
Use a silk or satin scrunchie
When putting your hair up, use a silk or satin scrunchie instead of a traditional elastic to minimize friction and prevent frizz.
By incorporating these habits into your regular hair care routine, you can help prevent frizz and maintain healthy, defined curls over time.
How Do I Manage Humidity and Dew Points?
Humidity and dew points can be major triggers for frizz, especially for those with curly and coily hair. Here are some tips for managing humidity and minimizing frizz:
Use anti-humectant products
Anti-humectant products contain ingredients that help seal the hair cuticle and prevent moisture from entering the hair shaft. Look for products with silicones like dimethicone or cyclomethicone, which can create a barrier against humidity.
Apply a gel or mousse
Using a strong-hold gel or mousse can help seal your style and prevent humidity from disrupting your curl pattern. Apply the product to damp hair, scrunching it in from the ends towards the roots. This will encourage curl formation and help lock out humidity.
Gels provide a stronger hold and more definition than mousses, making them ideal for coily and kinky curl types that need extra control. Look for gels with humectants like glycerin or aloe vera to attract moisture and reduce frizz.
Mousses are lighter and can add volume without weighing curls down, making them a good choice for wavy and loose curly hair types. Choose a mousse with moisturizing ingredients to help combat frizz while providing light hold.
Diffuse or air dry
After applying your styling products, you can either air dry your hair or use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer. Diffusing can help speed up drying time while minimizing frizz.
To diffuse, cup your curls in the diffuser and use low heat and speed settings. Avoid touching your hair too much while drying to prevent disrupting the curl pattern.
If air drying, try not to touch your hair until it is completely dry. Touching or scrunching while drying can cause frizz. Once hair is 100% dry, you can gently scrunch out any crunchiness from the gel.
Protect your style
To make your frizz-free style last, take steps to protect your hair from humidity. You can use a humidity-resistant hairspray to provide an extra layer of defense.
Putting your hair up in a “pineapple” or loose bun at night and sleeping on a satin pillowcase can also help preserve your curls and prevent frizz overnight.
Are There Any Salon Treatments for Frizz Control?
Yes. If you’re struggling with persistent frizz and at-home treatments aren’t giving you the results you want, there are several salon treatments that can help tame your locks and provide long-lasting frizz control. Here are a few options:
Keratin treatments
Keratin treatments, also known as Brazilian blowouts, use a protein-based formula to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. The treatment is applied to the hair and then sealed in with heat. Results can last up to 6 months with proper care.
Protein treatments
Protein treatments use hydrolyzed proteins to strengthen and repair damaged hair, which can help reduce frizz and improve manageability. These treatments are usually applied in the salon and left on for a period of time before being rinsed out.
Scalp treatments
Healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Scalp treatments can help remove buildup, unclog hair follicles, and promote circulation, leading to healthier, less frizzy hair. Options include scalp exfoliation, massage, and masks.
Smoothing treatments
Smoothing treatments, like hair botox or cysteine treatments, use a combination of proteins and other ingredients to smooth the hair cuticle and reduce frizz. These treatments are usually less intense than keratin treatments and can last up to 3 months.
Glossing treatments
Glossing treatments, also known as hair glosses or glazes, use a semi-permanent color or clear gloss to add shine and smooth the hair cuticle. While they don’t provide long-term frizz reduction, they can help tame frizz and add vibrancy to your hair.
Before getting any salon treatment, consult with your stylist to determine which option is best for your hair type, texture, and concerns. Be sure to follow all aftercare instructions to maintain your results and keep your hair healthy.
To Wrap It All Up
Frizzy hair can be a frustrating and ongoing battle, especially for those with curly and coily textures. However, by understanding the factors that contribute to frizz, like humidity, dryness, and damage, and using the right products and techniques, you can achieve defined, frizz-free curls that last.
Focus on keeping your hair moisturized, protecting your strands from damage, and using styling products with humidity-resistant ingredients. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques and product combinations to find what works best for your unique hair type and concerns.
With a consistent hair care routine, healthy habits, and the occasional salon treatment, you can tame your frizzy locks and embrace your natural texture with confidence. The key is patience, persistence, and learning to work with your hair, not against it.
