It's tough to relate to women on those commercials who turn their heads, making their soft, shiny locks bounce and drift like angelic clouds, when your hair resembles the frazzled end of a mop. Dry, frizzy or coarse hair lacks sufficient moisture and the natural oils necessary to keep it soft and shiny, according to Medline Plus, a website from the National Institutes of Health. While some hair characteristics are genetic, how you care for your hair plays a vital role.
Features
Dry hair breaks more easily than shiny, supple hair because it is less flexible and more prone to damage from brushing and styling. Not all coarse hair is unhealthy, but it may shine less than straight hair because of its rough texture. Frizzy hair is the result of dryness, breakage and split ends.
Causes
The use of blow dryers and heat styling tools, such as curling irons and straightening irons, can damage hair and lead to dryness and breakage. Although unusual, some medical conditions may also cause hair to become dry and coarse, including anorexia, malnutrition or an underactive thyroid, according to Drugs.com.
Treatment
Help prevent further damage to dry hair by switching to a sulfate-free shampoo, and wash your hair less often, recommends "Fitness" magazine. Treat your hair gently, and get a professional trim to remove damaged hair and split ends. Avoid chemical hair treatments, including perms, highlighting and chemical straightening, until your hair is in better condition. Apply a shine-enhancing balm to coarse or curly hair, such as African American hair. The balm will seal the hair shaft and reflect light, making your hair shine.
Protection
Apply a detangling conditioner after you shampoo, and comb through hair with a wide-tooth comb. Avoid brushing damp hair, which can stretch the hair shafts and cause more breakage. Once a week, use a deep-conditioning hair mask, and rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of conditioner. If you must blow dry and use heat-styling tools, apply a heat-protectant spray to your hair beforehand. Wear a lightweight hat if you're going to be in the harsh sun for longer than a few minutes.
Considerations
While most dry and frizzy hair will benefit from shampooing and styling changes, if you don't see improvement after a few weeks, or if you experience other unexplained symptoms, see your doctor to rule out an underlying disorder.
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