Hey there, hairstylists! Summer is here, and with it comes the dreaded frizz that makes our clients’ hair go haywire. As the temperatures rise and the humidity levels skyrocket, it’s time to arm ourselves with the knowledge and tools to help our clients keep their locks smooth and sleek. Let’s dive into the science behind why frizz happens, what we can do internally to the hair to repair it, and some surprising tips and tricks to combat the summer frizz.
The Science Behind Frizz
Frizz happens when the outer layer of the hair, known as the cuticle, lifts and allows moisture to enter the hair shaft. This moisture causes the hair to swell and twist, resulting in those unwanted flyaways and frizzy strands. High humidity levels exacerbate this problem by increasing the amount of moisture in the air, which the hair absorbs, leading to even more frizz. Studies have shown that high humidity levels significantly impact the hair’s structure. When exposed to moisture, the hydrogen bonds in the hair break and reform, causing the hair to change shape and swell. This is why curly and wavy hair types are more prone to frizz—they have more hydrogen bonds, making them more reactive to moisture.
What’s Happening Internally
When hair is dry or damaged, the cuticle becomes raised and porous, making it more susceptible to absorbing excess moisture. Some hair types are naturally more prone to frizz. Understanding your clients' specific hair classification elevates you from a good hairstylist to a great one. To learn how to accurately assess your clients' hair types and ensure they get the right products every time, enroll in our Hair Loss Specialist course. To combat frizz, it’s essential to focus on strengthening and smoothing the hair from the inside out. Here are some key steps:
Deep Conditioning Treatments: Regular deep conditioning treatments help to restore moisture and strengthen the hair shaft. Look for products containing ingredients like keratin, argon oil & almond oil, which penetrate the hair and provide long-lasting hydration.
Protein Treatments: Hair is primarily made of protein, so incorporating protein treatments can help reinforce the hair structure and reduce frizz. Ensure your clients use these treatments sparingly, as too much protein can lead to brittleness.
Leave-In Conditioners: Recommend lightweight leave-in conditioners to your clients. These products provide a protective barrier against humidity and keep hair smooth throughout the day.
Unusual Ways People Combat Frizz
People get creative when it comes to taming frizz! Here are some unusual methods that your clients might have tried—or might want to consider:
Humidifiers: It might sound counterintuitive, but using a humidifier at home can actually help balance the moisture levels in the hair. When the air inside is too dry, it can strip the hair of its natural moisture, making it more prone to frizz. A humidifier adds just the right amount of moisture to keep hair balanced.
Silk Pillowcases: Sleeping on a silk pillowcase reduces friction, preventing hair from becoming frizzy overnight. Silk also helps retain the hair’s natural oils, keeping it smoother and shinier.
T-Shirt Drying: Instead of using a regular towel, suggest that your clients use a soft cotton T-shirt to dry their hair. The smoother fabric reduces friction and minimizes frizz.
Fabric Softener Sheets: This might surprise you—fabric softener sheets! Yes, those little sheets you toss in the dryer can also help tame frizz. Simply rub a sheet over your hair to reduce static and smooth down flyaways. I usually do not recommend this because Fabric sheets usually have some nasty ingredients in them, but people do this.
Tips for Hairstylists to Combat Frizz
Educate Your Clients: Explain the science behind frizz to your clients so they understand why it happens and what they can do to prevent it. Knowledge is power!
Recommend the Right Products: Suggest anti-frizz products that contain ingredients like silicone ( make sure it is water soluble), which creates a barrier against humidity. Serums and oils can also help smooth the hair and add shine.
Advise on Heat Styling: Encourage clients to use heat styling tools at a lower temperature to avoid further damage. Remind them to always use a heat protectant spray to shield their hair from the heat.
Offer Anti-Frizz Treatments: Introduce salon treatments specifically designed to combat frizz, such as keratin treatments or a 3 month summer frizz treatment. Come up with something fun that your clients will ask for every summer. These treatments can provide long-lasting results and keep hair smooth for weeks.
Frizz may be a formidable foe, but with the right knowledge and tools, we can help our clients keep their hair smooth and frizz-free all summer long. By understanding the science behind frizz, using the right products, and incorporating some surprising tips and tricks, we can turn those wild, frizzy manes into sleek, gorgeous locks.
Here’s to a frizz-free summer and happy clients who can’t wait to show off their fabulous hair!
Tabitha
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