Dry hair is more than a minor inconvenience. How it looks and feels makes it impossible to style as you normally would. It is also more prone to breakage, which can lead to hair thinning and loss. Dry hair strips away your self-esteem and leaves you wondering, "Why is my hair so dry, and what can I do about it?" This guide will take an in-depth look at what causes dry hair, treatment for dry hair, and how to prevent dry hair in the future.
What Causes Dry Hair?
Dry hair occurs when your hair can't absorb or retain adequate moisture. Each strand of hair is made of three layers. In healthy hair, natural sebum oils coat each strand's outer layer, protecting the inner layers. If your hair is unable to stay moisturized, it means the outer layer has broken down and can't protect the inner layers. The broken outer layer is why your hair loses its sheen and looks dull.
The result is hair that lacks sheen, may appear frizzy, and is fragile and prone to breakage. Dry hair is a sign of unhealthy hair. It is a condition that affects men and women of every age.
There are several causes of dry hair. The most common include:
- Environmental conditions – chlorinated or salty water, excessive sun, wind, dry climates
- Hair care – harsh hair products, washing your hair too often, heated styling tools, chemical treatments
- Medical conditions – anorexia nervosa, hypoparathyroidism, hypothyroidism, Menkes syndrome
Treatment for Dry Hair
The best treatment for dry hair will depend on the underlying cause of your hair loss. For example, if you have spent a lot of time in a chlorinated pool, the solution may be as simple as staying out of the water or using extra conditioner. On the other hand, if you have hypothyroidism, you will need to talk with your doctor to get your medical condition under control. Your hair should then return to normal. In many cases, lifestyle changes can successfully resolve dry hair.
How to Prevent Dry Hair
The tips below will prevent dry hair and, in many cases, treat simple cases of dry hair.
- Avoid shampooing every day – Every time you wash, the oils are stripped from your hair and scalp—only shampoo when necessary.
- Use high-quality hair products meant for your hair type
- Refrain from chemical treatments
- Minimize the use of heated styling tools such as curling irons and blow dryers
- Protect your heat from excessive exposure to the sun
- Avoid long-term exposure to wind
- Protect your hair from chlorine and saltwater
When Is It Time to Seek Help From a Hair Restoration Studio?
If you've exhausted every effort, including visiting your doctor, and still can't achieve a healthy head of hair, it is time to seek the services of North Carolina's most trusted hair restoration studio. Our certified hairstylists will conduct a thorough scalp and hair analysis to determine the cause of your dry hair and present you with viable solutions that fit your lifestyle and budget.
At LH Hair, we offer a full line of hair loss solutions for men and women who are thinning and balding. You no longer have to live with an unhealthy head of hair. Let our dedicated team find the perfect solution and walk you through every step of the process. You will love the results. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. The rest of your life begins today!
