Your hair may be dry because of genetics, overprocessing or frequent use of heated styling tools. Normal hair has a 10 percent moisture content; if it falls below that percentage, your hair's ability to attract and retain moisture is compromised, according to Women's Healthcare Topics. Whatever the reason for the dryness, use a shampoo that adds and locks in moisture. The right shampoo might ease the dryness and restore natural shine.
Washing
Wash your hair only once or twice a week if it's on the dry side, if possible. Frequent washing may strip needed oils from your hair and scalp, says Women's Healthcare Topics. Concentrate on cleaning the scalp and the roots, and try not to rub the hair shaft and ends. The shampoo running down your hair will sufficiently clean the ends. Use a gentle shampoo with a low pH, reports Women's Healthcare Topics.
Coconut Oil
Shampoos that contain an oil that contains natural fatty acids -- such as coconut oil -- may penetrate the hair shaft and help to replenish oils to your hair and scalp. It may also add moisture, strength and protection to dry hair. Coconut oil may also help to reduce protein loss from your hair, according to the website Healthy Oil Planet.
Low-pH Formulas
Consider the pH level when choosing a shampoo for dry hair. A low pH level will give your hair the best results by sealing in the cuticle of your hair and locking in moisture, according to Your Hair Guide. Shampoos high in pH may damage dry hair by lifting the cuticle and allowing moisture to evaporate, according to the Women's Hair Care Topics website.
Lipids and Acidifiers
The combination of lipids and acidifiers is beneficial in a shampoo for dry hair. Lipids are essential fatty acids that provide moisture to dry hair, while the acidifiers lock and seal them into the cuticle of your hair, according to the Your Hair Guide website.
Panthenol and Protein Extracts
Panthenol and protein extracts in a shampoo may help to protect and strengthen your dry hair while smoothing the outer layers of the cuticle. The two also work by increasing your hair's moisture content. Panthenol may also add volume to your hair while taking care of the dryness, according to Body Lab.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone is a form of silicon, which can help dry hair by reducing porosity. Dimethicone may also coat the hair shaft which will lock moisture in and protect it. It may make your dry hair feel smoother and look shinier, according to the Going Gray Looking Great website.
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