Dry Hair vs Frizzy Hair, What is the Difference?

Let’s talk about two very common concerns I hear from my clients: Frizz and Dryness. Frizzy and dry hair are common hair concerns that many people face. While they may seem similar, they have distinct characteristics and underlying causes. Today, we will explore the difference between frizzy and dry hair, including their causes and effective treatments to restore your hair's health and manageability. Let me break this down as simple as possible. 

 Frizzy Hair

Frizzy hair is hair that appears unruly, lacks smoothness, and has a tendency to form flyaway or frizz halo.

Frizz occurs due to a moisture imbalance in the hair that can be caused by the environment, pollution, humidity, or damage to the hair cuticle. 

There is a common misconception that frizz is only an issue with textured or curly hair but can actually affect ALL hair types from straight to kinky. 

Dry Hair

Dry hair often lacks moisture, feels rough and or brittle, and appears very dull lacking luster and shine. 

Dryness in the hair occurs when the hair is not retaining enough moisture or hydration leading to damage within the hair structure.

Dryness in the hair can often be caused by excessive heat styling, shampooing the hair too often, not using the right products, exposure to harsh chemicals, and natural factors such as genetics or aging. Some people naturally have hair that is dryer that needs constant moisture and extra love.

 Differentiating Frizzy Hair from Dry Hair

The key differences between dry hair and frizzy hair is that frizzy hair is a concern with it's appearance, and dryness is an underlying issue that can make your hair feel bad, and maybe also not look its best. Let me explain a little more. 

Frizzy hair is seen as hair that lacks smoothness, where dry hair feels less soft and smooth and also looks duller. One is about the specific look, and one is about more of the feeling. 

Frizz is often influenced by environmental factors, humidity, or damage, while dry hair can stem from various causes including hair care practices and natural factors.

Frizzy hair may still have sufficient moisture content, whereas dry hair lacks moisture and needs hydration.

Luckily there are ways to treat both frizzy and dry hair. Let's talk about it!

Treating Frizzy Hair

Reference my blog How to Fight Frizz and Flyways for extra tips on fighting frizz. For now, here are some of the best practices to manage frizzy hair that I'm sure you have tried at least a couple of these tricks, but maybe need a little assistance and improvement on the way! 

Blow-dry Your Hair

Smooth out your hair with a blow-dryer to create a sleek look and if need be go over with a flat iron but make sure you are using good products and using a lot of tension when you blow-dry your hair. I'm not talking rough drying; it is best to follow with an actual blowout and smooth the hair section by section. I can definitely make a tutorial on how to create an amazing at home blowout. 

If you want a frizz free style to enhance your natural texture, make sure the hair is hydrated well and use frizz taming products that we are going to talk about! You can even diffuse the hair for a cleaner, more defined look. 

Use the Right Products 

Use anti-frizz products, like serums or leave-in conditioners, to smooth the hair and control frizz. Here are some of my favorite anti-frizz products for a blown-out look or you can use them to air dry your hair! 

• 100% natural fragrances
• Easy-to-recycle bottles.
• Free of harmful chemicals
• Certified organic botanical extracts
• Cruelty free and made in the USA.
• Plant-based aloe formulas

Limit Heat or Sun Exposure

Limit exposure to humidity by using protective hairstyles or incorporating moisture-locking techniques. For guidance on protecting your hair when it comes to sun exposure, read my blog How To Protect Your Hair from the Sun (thewarehouse.salon).

Avoid Too Much Heat 

Avoid excessive heat styling and use heat protectant products when styling with heat tools. Need a good heat protectant? Here are my personal favorites that are AMAZING. They are not only standalone hear protectants, but they also have other great nourishing benefits! 

Moroccanoil Perfect Defense Heat Protectant Hairspray

Moroccanoil's Perfect Defense Heat Protectant Hairspray is a hair styling product that is essential for protecting hair from thermal damage caused by heat styling. With a protective barrier that can withstand temperatures up to 450°F/230°C, it ensures the maintenance of healthy hair. Enriched with argan oil, it is infused with nourishing properties that strengthen the hair and keep it looking healthy. The lightweight, non-greasy formula provides a long-lasting hold, tames frizz, and leaves hair smooth, shiny, and with a pleasant fragrance.

How To Use:

1. Shake can well before use.
2. Hold can 6 inches away and spray evenly onto hair.
3. Apply before using heat styling tools.
4. Style hair as desired.
5. Reapply for extra protection and hold.

AG Hair Deflect Fast Dry Heat Protection

AG Hair Deflect Fast Dry Heat Protection is the ultimate styling solution for protecting your hair from heat damage and maintaining vibrant color. Formulated with a blend of natural oils and silicones, this heat protectant adds smoothness, slip, and shine to your hair while protecting it from the damage caused by heat styling tools. Suitable for all hair types, this fast-drying formula allows you to style your hair quickly and easily, without worrying about damage or fading.

Alterna Caviar Anti-Aging Restructuring Bond Repair Leave-In Heat Protection Spray

The Alterna Restructuring Bond Repair Leave-In Heat Protection Spray is a high-quality styling product designed to help strengthen hair while protecting it from heat damage. Infused with ingredients like keratin, biotin, and panthenol, this lightweight spray is formulated with Caviar Bond Enforcing Technology to repair and reinforce hair bonds, promoting healthy and resilient hair. By creating a protective barrier around the hair shaft, the spray can prevent split ends, breakage, and other damage caused by heat styling. When used as directed, this product can help you achieve smooth, soft, and manageable hair, without weighing it down or leaving any residue.

Hair Mask Once a Week 

Deep condition regularly to provide nourishment and hydration to the hair. I'll be mentioning some of my fav hair masks in a couple minutes! 

 Treating Dry Hair

Use Good Products For Your Hair Type 

Use hydrating shampoos and conditioners designed for dry hair, preferably sulfate-free. Overall, it is important to find products for your hair type and maybe need to rotate your shampoo and conditioner depending on your hair issues. For this instance, here are my fav hydrating shampoos and conditioners for all hair types! If you need more help understanding your hair type and finding products, read these blogs: Finding Hair Products Based On Your Hair Type  & What Is The Best Shampoo For My Hair Type? .  For this instance, here are my fav hydrating shampoos and conditioners for all hair types! 

Verb Hydrating Shampoo and Conditioner 

Gently cleanses hair, replenishes moisture, preserves color and protects against heat styling. Leaves hair soft, smooth and tangle-free.

SUDZZfx Cashmere Hydrating Shampoo and Moxee  Conditioner

Sudzz FXCashmere Hydrating Shampoo delivers a strong dose of moisture while creating shine, silkiness and manageability. Its richly hydrating and perfect for hair that tends to be dry.

• Infused with 100% Certified Organic Botanicalsofasparagus, parsley, cucumber and sandalwood naturally exfoliate, soothe and balance the scalp and skin.
• Nano Emulsionhelps to protect and preserves semi, demi and permanent haircolor.
• Wheat Proteincontains elastic and binding properties that help strengthen the hair from within

Sudzz FX Moxee™ Reconstructing Conditioner provides nourishment and restores weak, lifeless, critically damaged hair. It rebuilds, revitalizes and restores offering instantaneously renewed, stronger hair.

Contains:

-Hydrolyzed Soy Protein has unique penetrating properties that help to strengthen hair.

-Nano Emulsion improves wet and dry comb-ability.

-Shea Butter adds moisture back into the hair and scalp and helps to retain it

Hair Mask & Treat Once a Week 

Incorporate moisturizing hair masks or deep conditioning treatments into your hair care routine. Here are my fav hair masks that make your hair so soft and silky. 

ColorWow Money Masque Deep Hydrating Hair Treatment

The Color Wow Money Masque Deep Hydrating Hair Treatment that can help repair and nourish damaged hair. Its unique blend of natural ingredients to provide deep hydration and protection, resulting in a glossy, sleek appearance. Regardless of your hair type, including color-treated hair, this treatment is an excellent option that is both effective and user-friendly. Apply the masque once a week after shampooing to keep your hair healthy, hydrated, and strong, with a smooth and supple texture.

Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Hair Mask

Moroccanoil's Intense Hydrating Hair Mask is a hair treatment that helps to restore and rejuvenate dry, damaged hair. Infused with a nourishing blend of argan oil, shea butter, and other natural ingredients, this hair mask delivers deep hydration and conditioning, resulting in softer, smoother, and more manageable hair. It works by repairing damage caused by daily styling, chemical treatments, and environmental factors, leaving your hair with improved texture, elasticity, shine, and overall health. 

IGK OFFLINE 3-Minute Hydration Hair Mask

The IGK OFFLINE 3-Minute Hydrating Hair Mask is a quick and easy treatment that helps repair dry, damaged hair in only three minutes. It is developed with nourishing elements that deeply moisturize and strengthen hair while preventing future damage. This mask is suitable for all hair types and is ideal for keeping hair healthy and lustrous.

How To Use: 

• Apply to wet hair after shampooing
• Leave on for 3 mins
• Rinse thoroughly

Verb Ghost Hair Mask (Go to for Fine Hair) 

a light-as-air deep conditioning treatment that nourishes, de-frizzes, and promotes shine without leaving behind any residue or added weight.

Avoid High Heat

Minimize heat styling and opt for air drying or low-heat settings.

Protect hair from harsh weather conditions by using hats or scarves. Refer to my blog above about protecting your hair from the sun! Here is the link again incase you missed it: How To Protect Your Hair from the Sun (thewarehouse.salon).

Create Healthy Habits 

Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and consider incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet to promote overall hair health.

Summary

Understanding the difference between frizzy and dry hair is crucial in choosing the right treatments and products to address specific concerns. Frizzy hair requires anti-frizz measures and moisture balance, while dry hair necessitates intense hydration. By implementing appropriate hair care practices and choosing suitable products, you can restore your hair's health, manage frizz, and attain smooth, nourished, and beautiful locks. Embrace the journey towards healthier hair and remember to follow my page @themanebri on IG and our salon @thewarehouse.salon on IG, TikTok, and YouTube ! 💁‍♀️✨