We only work with and promote products from companies that we trust and feel are good for our consumers to use. We are reader-supported. If you decide to make a purchase through one of our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.
Last Updated on May 2, 2023 by Verna Meachum
Frizzy, curly hair is common and can be challenging to manage, especially if you don’t know what causes the frizz and how to deal with those flyaways. While some people embrace frizzy locks, others don’t want anything to do with it.
Frizz is often a natural by-product of curly hair because of the hair texture. Genetics, dehydration, humidity, damage, and incorrect styling techniques contribute to frizzy, curly hair. It can be manageable using the correct care methods and products to hold shape and seal in moisture.
Read on to learn more about frizz and why you have them, how to prevent and manage them, what products are best for your hair type, and some styling tips. We answer all your burning questions!
Hair frizz is the physical state of the hair. It refers to hair that looks misaligned or “spiky” spread around the scalp area caused by small fibers that project away from the main body of hair. It is often called “flyaways” (short hairs perpendicular to the hair shaft).
Three factors contribute to hair frizz:
You inherit certain hair types and textures through your bloodline. You may have the same if a parent or grandparent has curly hair that naturally frizzes. Albeit your genetics, your frizz can be controlled.
Damage is often the primary reason for frizz, especially with curly hair. Curly hair tends to tangle and break easier. Color and bleaching also cause damage, and not using correct hair care methods and products lead to weak, thin hair that breaks, resulting in frizz.
Humidity is less a cause of frizz and more a trigger for flyaways. Humidity rearranges the hair fiber hydrogen bonds that hold the hair’s protein structure.
When they are broken, the cuticles lift. Moisture penetrates the hair shaft and absorbs it into the cortex, causing it to swell.
Frizz is not only present in humidity. Variations in hair texture may also influence the appearance of frizz. That means that all hair types can experience frizz.
We have looked at the primary reasons for frizz and understand that it can happen to any hair type. But since it is most common and often a natural result of curly hair, let’s understand why.
Curly hair craves moisture. Unlike straight hair, natural oils struggle to run down the hair strands because of the twists and twirls. This leads to slower natural hydration.
Curly hair requires additional products like hair masks or leave-in conditioners to hydrate and lock moisture in. Conditioner is also essential after washing oils out.
Overwashing also leads to dry hair because it strips the natural oils from the scalp and roots, leading to dry hair that becomes weak, brittle, thin, and damaged, which causes breaking and ends in flyaways.
After washing and styling, curly hair can often look smooth and perfect. But as the day passes and there is exposure to different environmental factors like sun, wind, rain, etc., and rubbing against clothing, accessories, chairs, or hands can change the texture.
When that happens, frizz can occur because there is not enough hold from the product to keep the hair in place or withstand moisture loss. Leave-in conditioners, serums, mousse, and hair sprays can help hold your hair in place and keep it smooth and supple.
There are specific methods that people with curly hair should use during care and styling. Curly hair should not be brushed vigorously, especially not once dried and styled. Not using conditioner and rarely oiling can lead to weakness and damage.
Excessive use of heating tools like curling irons, flat irons, and hair dryers is also damaging. Lack of heat protectant, using excessively hot water, not using moisture-locking products, or using incorrect products (straight hair products instead of curly care) can all contribute to frizz.
21 Additional factors that cause frizz in curly and other hair types include:
There is no such thing as a one-and-done remedy for frizzy hair. You can reduce frizz and, over time, get rid of it if you consistently take proper care of your hair. Everyone’s hair and lifestyle are different. Determine what works best for you, and let your hair guide you.
12 Tips to minimize frizz and keep your curls looking luscious:
If you have curly hair, you probably hate humid weather. Humidity and curly hair are not friends. Below are tips and techniques you can use to help manage those flyaways.
Avoid silicones if:
Hair porosity, the quantity of sebum produced, and curl pattern are just a few variables that determine whether or not a product or treatment is suitable for one person versus another.
Many products on the market help reduce frizz, but finding the right one for your hair type can be confusing. Below is an extensive list of products to help you choose the best option:
Frizzy, curly hair can be a challenge, but with the right tips, it’s manageable. Experiment with different methods and products to find what works best for you. And don’t forget, a little frizz can be cute!
Keep Reading
I had to listen to what my hair needed...my curls are finally ready to take in some moisture again!!!
- renee, Stylist Liaison
- renee, Stylist Liaison
“I truly couldn't have gotten through this without her knowledge, advice and support...after suffering from Hygral Fatigue and getting tons of advice @themestizamuse.”
“@themestizamuse: for ESSENTIAL information you will NEED TO KNOW in order to see results.”
See how easy the topics are to find on her page (a few posts screenshot)? There is no topic Verna hasn't covered.
- dominique P, wavy hair enthusiast
- dominique P, wavy hair enthusiast
“I have learned a whole heap of knowledge from @themestizamuse.”
Inspiring hair tutor, grateful for what she offers the Curly Community in authenticity, passion, and knowledge.
- zoe F, Producer & Host of The Curl Squad
- zoe F, Producer & Host of The Curl Squad
“I was so excited to embrace my curls and take better care of them. As I started to dive in, I immediately became overwhelmed with the information.”
I read books and tried doing things because "that's what I'm supposed to do," but it didn't always work and I didn't understand why. I'm so grateful for Verna and her blog. Her info. actually helped me understand more of the science of why some methods helped and what products or ingredients to use and why. Anyone that compliments my hair and wants to start a curly journey, I tell them to start here. My hair is so much healthier and I'm so happy with it.
- stephanie, Curly hair enthusiast
- stephanie, Curly hair enthusiast
“One day you will wake up and there won't be any more time to do the things you've always wanted. Do it now”
- Paulo coelho