If the cards nature dealt you include hair that is thick, dry and frizzy, the chances are good that even thin, oily and stick-straight hair sounds like a better deal. Although caring for and managing hair of this type can be challenging, arming yourself with knowledge and taking a little extra time can result in hair that looks good.
What Thick, Dry Hair is
Thickness and to some extent dryness are properties of hair you cannot change. Thick hair involves density, or the number of hair shafts on your head. By itself, thick hair does not directly relate to dryness. Thick hair with a coarse texture, however, is usually dry.
A coarse hair shaft has an additional inner layer, as compared with fine hair. This inner layer, called the medulla, creates a thicker hair shaft that requires numerous overlapping outer cuticle layers to surround and protect it. The overlapping cuticle layers keep the hair shaft from lying smoothly.
Causes
Dry hair has a moisture content of less than 8 percent, as opposed to a 10 to 11.5 percent in normal hair. A low moisture content can be the result of natural causes, such as insufficient production of sebum, which coats and protects the hair. Dry hair can also result from hair-care products, styling products and appliances. Regardless of whether your hair is thick or thin, dry hair is less elastic and more susceptible to damage.
Environmental Contributors
Frizz results from dehydration of the inner layer of the hair shaft. Ironically, it also results from exposure to heat and humidity in the environment. In a hot, humid environment, thick, dry hair absorbs water from the atmosphere 40 percent faster than normal hair. This causes hair shafts to expand rapidly and results in hair that is kinky and out of control.
It may seem counterproductive to combat environmentally induced frizz by adding more moisture, but using a conditioner is essential. Conditioners, especially cream conditioners, allow the cuticle to lie smooth and protect the hair shaft, preventing the invasion of more environmental moisture.
Prevention/Solution
A gentle hand, cool water and the right products are key to managing thick, dry hair and preventing frizz. One of the most important steps you can take is to stop washing your hair every day. Natural oils are the best moisturizers, yet even the gentlest shampoo strips natural oil from your hair. Read ingredient lists and choose shampoo and conditioning products with care. Avoid products that contain any form of alcohol and shampoos that list sodium lauryl sulfates as an ingredient, as this is a strong detergent. Condition each time you shampoo, use a spray-on conditioner before blowing your hair dry and use a deep conditioner on your hair at least once a week, leaving it on anywhere from 10 minutes to overnight.
The Right Style
The hairstyle you choose is an important consideration. Wearing your hair in layers is not a good idea, as this decreases overall weight, and weight helps to keep your hair lying smooth.
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