by Kelly Knox

Controlling frizzy hair is not always an easy feat especially in this summer heat! Caused in most cases by lack of moisture in the hair; frizz can be controlled with the right level of moisture, which experts say is 8 percent.  Women who have curly or wavy hair will have a harder time getting moisture from root to tip. This is because the hair shaft has an "S" shape instead of a straight pattern, so the oil simply has trouble getting to the ends.  This leads to dry ends that split and hair that breaks off midway down the hair shaft.  Once frizz is present, it's hard to get rid of, but can be smoothed temporarily with the right products. 

For those who are dedicated to frizz free hair, start by using hydrating shampoos and conditioners without paraben or sulfate, both of which will eventually rob hair of moisture.  Sulfate free products are also good for color treated hair, since they are less harsh then their counterparts.  Use a heat safe product that has UV protection, especially before going to the beach or pool.  Also consider using a light leave in conditioner after extreme heat and sun: Only apply to the ends of your hair to avoid greasy roots.

Off With the Old, In With the New

One of the most important steps to getting rid of frizz all together is regular hair trims.  Trimming the hair even 1/3 of an inch every 4-6 weeks will begin the process to rebuild moisture.  Ask your hairdresser to apply a deep conditioner each time you go, inviting moisture into the hair shaft immediately.  Weight is important with hair that is prone to frizziness, so consider growing your hair longer if it is short, also avoid layers, which will make your hair look more bulky.   If hair is already long, but frizz is abounding, consider chopping a few inches off and starting over. Avoiding blunt cuts is necessary when you have curl or wave.  That's why finding the right hair stylist is so important.  Look for a hairdresser who is  seasoned in dealing with clients who have courser, thicker textures, or just take a look at their hair.  If it's curly or wavy, there's a good chance they'll know how to cut and style your hair.   

Organic Styling

Less is more with curly and wavy hair textures.  Because these types of hair are more prone to damage, natural styling is the way to go.  So pack your hairdryer and straightening iron away in a hard to reach place and try working with your hair texture instead of against it.  Avoid heat all together by applying products that bump up the wave or curl.  For thinner hair, use lighter products like mousses or spray gels, scrunch hair and let it air dry.  For thicker textures, try using cremes or gels, and twist the hair into the curl pattern of your preference, then let it dry.  Turn on the overhead fan for faster drying, and whatever you do, don't touch it.  Use a diffuser on your hair dryer for special events where controlling curl is essential.  If you insist on straightening your hair, use a heat protecting product before ironing or a natural-bristle brush for your blow outs.

At Home Care

To maintain moisture, deep condition your hair once a week. The longer you can leave the conditioner in, the better the results will be. Consider wrapping it and sleeping overnight with it on or toss it up and let it soak in while you do the laundry.

Also avoid washing your hair everyday, opt for every other day, concentrating the shampoo only on the roots. As you rinse the shampoo, the soapy water will run down your hair, leaving it clean but not taking all of the natural oils that help keep hair strong from root to tip.

Recommended products to help tame frizzy hair:

• Keratin complex smoothing treatment. Offered mainly in salons but some at home kits are available in drug stores.
  
  
• Kerastase Nutritive Bain Satin Shampoo and Conditioner
  
  
• Ojon Finishing Paste
  
  
• John Frieda Frizz Ease
  
  
• Wen hair care system ( online only)
  
  
• Biomega Silk Shampoo and Intense Moisture Conditioner
  
  
• Aquage Curl Defining Creme
  
  
• For ethnic hair, try the Mixed Chicks line of shampoos and conditioners

Remember moisture is the key to healthy looking hair. Find products that work for you within your budget and keep in mind that natural products like olive oil and mayonnaise pack a big punch when it comes to moisture. Happy hair days ahead!

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