Frizz is a big issue in the hair care industry, and almost every consumer faces this dilemma.
Curly hair is more vulnerable to this problem and needs the proper hair care regimen to combat it.
Let's see how we can remedy the issue.
So, What is Frizz?
Frizz is an undesirable physical change that can make our hair look dull, rough, and difficult to style.
These changes are especially noticeable in curly hair, where the curls may appear less defined and the outer layer of the hair may lose its luster and shine.
What Makes Our Hair Frizzy?
Several factors are responsible for frizzy hair:
- High humidity and rapidly fluctuating temperature conditions.
- Too much humectant, e.g., glycerin and propylene glycol.
- The build-up of polymers; cationics, and silicones.
- Frequent use of high protein treatments.
- Thermal treatments, blow dry, flat ironing.
- Harsh chemical treatments resulting in protein loss and hair mechanical strength.
- Use of too much sulfates that leave hair brittle and dry.
- Using too much drying alcohol products, i.e. hair setting lotions, and sprays.
Frizz on Curly hair: A Special Case
There are special structural features to curly hairs that make them different from other hair types. Scientists believe curls occur due to a specific ratio among cortical (cortical cells) and medulla regions inside the hair fiber.
The thickness of curly hair shafts vary along the strand. In some areas, the hairs are thick while other sections are very fine with a slight twist, giving it a sharp curve shape. These weak areas with smaller diameters are the unique feature of curly hair.
Hair is weak at these areas and can even break when applying force or is subjected to repeated exposure to thermal or chemical treatments. Therefore, those with curly hair need to take more care when styling their locks.
In addition, hair acts differently when products are applied to certain areas; the strands may absorb more of the product, which then leads to increased build up of residue.
While we may want all of our curls to be uniform and organized, this is not always an easy feat.
Curly hair often presents more challenges, such as with combing, styling, and frizz. They can become easily become frizzy quickly due to fragile points which induce frizz, dryness, and even breakage.
Choosing the Right Product
Curly hairs are one-of-a-kind and require products that target their specific needs, and using the right product is key!
There are some ingredients you want to avoid if you're trying to take care of your curls. Products with high molecular weight man-made polymers can make your hair become limp, cause build up, and distort your curl pattern. Some proteins can also lead to build-up and frizz if used in excess.
Not only does a product need to be used correctly, but also at the right time. Curl cream is designed specifically for curl hair care, however it may not deliver the promised results.
Curl Cream May Induce Frizz
A curl cream is a product designed specifically for curly hair, however some people complain that it doesn't work the way they want it too.
Some curl creams have been known to induce frizziness in hair almost immediately after being applied. But, why does this happen?
It could be due to multiple reasons:
- Curl creams contain high amounts of humectants that may deliver too many water molecules, causing the hair to swell and result in instant frizz.
- It may also be due to man-made polymer added into the formulation that forms a rigid coating at the curl surface.
- Is it a protein-rich product? Protein deposits may also induce frizz.
- Hair creams may also cause frizz due to the cationic or (conditioning) ingredient in the product. These ingredients are essential to a hair cream but can make some hair textures feel too soft, which can then cause frizz. Also, conditioning ingredients usually do not have hold, however, they feel moisturizing. Many people think their hair only needs cream, but if someone is looking for more hold, adding a gel or mousse on top is the way to go.
So, How Do We Fix It?
- Before using any new curl cream, do a trial test first.
- Apply the product to a small part of your hair and monitor your hair's reaction for insights.
- A curl cream might not be what you need- perhaps a light leave-in conditioner would work better.
- Alternately, try sealing your curls with a light gel for better definition.
Seal it: An Alternate Strategy
For frizz-prone hair, hairstyling gel or hairspray is a great option. A product with smaller to medium range molecular styling polymer can give us beautiful curls without making the hair crunchy. The fine water-soluble film can help provide definition and reduce flyaways.
Bounce Curl Light Creme Gel is great choice for this challenging job. Its creamy, light texture and a blend of natural emollients, herbal extracts, and curl holding ingredients can provide the perfect recipe for well-defined natural curls.
It can help offer a light and weightless experience to your curls with superior curl retention. Moreover, it can help reduce frizz, giving a more natural soft look to your curls.
